A documentary on ‘Rajarshi’ Nalwadi Krishnaraja Wadiyar-the architect of Modern Mysore, famous as ‘Nalwadi’, prepared by State Information Department, will be released by Chief Minister B S Yeddyurappa at the office of deputy commissioner in Mysore, on August 12.

K R Wadiyar IVThe documentary is directed by Prof P V Nanjaraje Urs and produced by director, State Information Department.

Born on June 4, 1884, Nalwadi Krishnaraja Wadiyar gave impetus to education, industries, health, agriculture, power, utilisation of water resources and uplift of dalits, backward classes. Based on his concept of ‘gram swaraj’ during those days, the gram panchayats came into being.  At the time of constructing KRS reservoir in 1911 at a cost of ` 2.73 crore, they faced paucity of funds. He sold four bags of jewellery that belonged to his family in Mumbai after consulting his mother, to generate funds for the project. Now, this dam is the lifeline of farmers of entire south India. Social development took place during his tenure and People’s Representatives Assembly came into existence.

A lot of steps were initiated for the welfare of dalits and backward classes and 50 per cent reservation was announced for them. He was the first king to invite ‘panchamas’ for durbar during Dasara festival held in 1936.

A number of irrigation projects were also implemented during his tenure. Along with  KRS dam, foundation stones laid for Vani Vilasa Sagar Dam and other reservoirs were completed during the same period. Some of his major contributions are; starting Minto Eye Hospital in Bangalore, Vani Vilas Hospital, NIMHANS, K R Hospital, Cheluvamba Hospital, Mysore Medical College, Mysore Aurveda and Unani Hospital and PKTB Hospital.

Courtesy : Deccan Herald