My 'first' attempt at being part of the myMYSORE team...
Thanks for the colorful picture bringing back memories of my early years as a dutiful citizen of HH Sri Jayachamaraja Wodeyar GCB GCSI, our Chancellor of Univ of Mysore, and beloved Maharaajaru, in the glory days of State of Mysore.
Having lived within walking distance (everywhere in Mysore was w/in walkable distance then!) of the Palace, I would be there for every special occassion - be it Dasara, Krishna (Gokula) Ashtami or other festivities.
Sorry to see/say that I was disappointed when I last went to the Palace, during Dasara 2001 - it did not feel anywhere near 'old' glory days! I heard they tried to 'improve' a bit this past year by having a procession and televising the event 'live'.
Anantharam was lucky to have lived close by the Palace. No wonder he got disappointed with his recent visit. Yes improvements are being made.... without sense. Sound and light show stand is the latest dent. There are many that doesn't come to the limelight. Old glories will remain in memories. None can make those days come back. If at all they brag about doing that, don't believe them, because it will only with the intention of improving their own bank balances, for, we don't see any people [in power, esp.] around that are really concerned towards heritage, leave alone retain it. It has become very gaudy. Just a glimpse of the Dasara Procession will be enough to prove it.
