It is time when Mysuru aka Mysore celebrates its biggest festival, Dasara. A ten day cultural extravaganza like none other, Dasara in Mysuru is visited by lakhs of Indians as well as foreign tourists.
While the soul of the city, the Ambavilas palace, is the centre of most of the festivities and is a site that is most visited, Mysuru boasts of several places that are not tourist traps. These hidden gems span history, art, architecture, culture, heritage and more. So, when you visit Mysuru for the festival, here are five places that you can visit.
The Government Art Gallery at Wellington House: Housed in one of the oldest heritage buildings of Mysuru, this art gallery of the State Department of Archaeology, Museums and Heritage was renovated and reopened for public in November last year. Before you see the display of art, the building itself which is a state-protected monument in Mysore has great significance. Wellington House was the first building in Mysore constructed for British officers. After Tipu Sultan’s death in the 4th Mysore War, Colonel Arthur Wellesley lived here from 1799 to 1801. He was later appointed Duke of Wellington, and thus, the name Wellington House has been preserved for this building to this day.
The first floor of the building is dedicated to exhibiting and preserving the works of prominent artists, showcasing the diverse artistic heritage of the sate. While here you can see art displays ranging from Mysore Ganjifa art and Indian miniatures to Mysore paintings and Indian contemporary art. A special feature of the museum is the display of artefacts used by the Mysore kings and their families reflecting Mysore’s royal heritage, grandeur and opulence. Further, there are self portraits of Mysore court artists which again throws light on their talent and artistic spirit. The portraits have been done using bright colours and are characterized by simple forms and clean lines. Do note that photograpy is not allowed in the museum.
National Museum of Mankind: This one is also called the Indira Gandhi Rashtriya Manav Sangrahalay (IGRMS), Southern Regional Centre and is located on the ground floor of Wellington House on Irwin road. While the main branch of IGRMS is in Bhopal, this branch in Mysore is equally insightful with engaging artefacts related to Indian folk, art and culture. Displays include farming and agricultural tools, objects related to daily life, kitchen utensils and several photgraphs displaying music traditions and art forms. The display of art forms pertaining to Dokhra and Gond is particularly interesting.
Sri Brahmatantra Swatantra Parakala Swami Mutt: this famous Hindu Sri Vaishnava monastery is located close to the Jaganmohan palace. It is an architectural gem with its classic facade and ornate balconies and protruding windows. The main deity is Sri Lakshmi Hayagriva who is the presiding deity of knowledge. The deity here is extremely significant in that it was originally worshipped by Bhagavad Ramanuja himself and later by Swami Deshikan. The mutt is also patronized by the royal family of Mysore who often visit to pay obeisance to the deity and the seers.
Soak in the Spirit of Bombe Habba: Dasara is synonymous with the display of dolls aka gombe or bombe as they are known in Kannada. And one place famous for Dasara dolls in Mysuru is Ramsons Bombe Mane. This year marks the 21st edition of Ramsons Bombe Mane special exhibition wherein specially curated doll dioramas are displayed in line with a theme.
This year, the theme of the special display is the celebration of the Dasara festival within the Mysore Palace which depicts how rituals like Saraswati Puja, Ayudha Puja, Vahana Puja etc are observed. Another special display is dedicated to the beloved Lord Hanuman who is the epitome of stength, fearlessness and devotion. The different avatars of the Lord are displayed along with the depiction of stories and legeneds associated with the monkey God making it a visual treat for visitors.
Heritage Vibes: the entire city of Mysuru is replete with hundreds of heritage structures and buildings that whisper stories of history and architecture. Embarking on a heritage trail is one of the best things you can do in the city. While here you can visit Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan’s house in Mysore which is now known as the S. Radhakrishnan Centre for Philosophy and Indian Culture. The majestic bungalow is over 100 years old and was renovated a few years ago.
Heritage House is yet another gem that is a hub for art and culture and hosts events like book readings, workshops, exhibitions and the like. Apart from the iconic Devaraja market, the residence of the Carnatic composer and musician Mysore Sri Vasudevacharya (1865–1961) is yet another preserved historical site worth visiting. Today the home plays host to musical concerts throughout the year.
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