Nalvadi implemented welfare programs despite stiff opposition: Historian Prof Rangarajan

Mysuru:

Renowned historian, Prof N.S.Rangaraju said despite stiff opposition for bringing social reforms, Rajashree Sri Nalvadi Krishnaraj Wadiyar accomplished his target and agenda without succumbing to any pressure.

Speaking at the 141st birth anniversary of Nalvadi Krishnaraj wadiyar organised in the Hosmath under the aegis of Kannada Sahitya Parishad of Mysuru district and Natarajan Girls High School here, Nalvadi had a great respect for women due to which he started a number of school for the girl children. He also opened the school doors to the widows and dalit girl children. The king abolished the Devadasi practice despite strong opposition from a section of the society. Inspite of all these, Nalvadi never stepped back from implementing his welfare schemes.

Prof Rangarajan noted that unable to digest the progressive ideas of Nalvadi Krishnaraj Wadiyar, some unscrupulous elements set fire to the palace. Not only that, the miscreants stopped the water supply to the palace to douse the fire from damaging the wooden palace. At that time, the residents from Paduvarahalli, Vontikoppal, Ashok Puram and other areas helped the helping hand to douse the fire which had engulfed the palace. They also protected the gold and silver jewellery as well as the precious items. Without taking a single but everything was returned to the Maharaja Nalvadi.

The historian said when Nalvadi's sister died of Tuberculosis, the king established the first TB hospital in the whole of country on 90 acres of land to prevent the death of the citizens due to Tuberculosis. Free treatment was given to the people.

He urged the state government to install the statue of Smt Kempananjanmanni Vanivilasa Sannidhi , mother of Nalvadi Krishnaraj Wadiyar who started a school to provide education to the windows.

On this occasion, Sri Chidananda Swamiji, chairman of Hosmath was felicitated. Limerick poet, Dr M.G.R. Urs, District KSP President Maddikere Gopal, Prof S.Shivarajappa, M.N.Latha, V.D Sunitha Rani and others were present.