Srikantadatta Narasimharaja Wadiyar was a unique royal in that he was wellknown for his association with the fashion world. A fashion designer himself, he promoted the traditional Mysore Silk sarees under his own brand name ‘Royal Silk of Mysore’. Aimed at reviving people’s interest in these sarees, Wadiyar held several fashion shows and was constantly in touch with fashion consultants.
Fashion guru Prasad Bidappa recalled the directives he got from the Maharaja whenever they worked together. “He came to the business of design to ensure that there was a continuity in using Mysore Silk. He strongly believed that people should not forget heritage. His entire collections were based on that. It wasn’t so much of a fashion collection as a heritage textile collection. He started designing to inspire young designers. He wasn’t interested in becoming a 100 shops kind of label. It was a project to introduce Karnataka Silks to designers of India. A lot of people paid attention to the silks since he introduced it.”
Recalling memorable moments, Bidappa said, “He was such a wise person that it was always good to spend time with him. He was knowledgable about many things ranging from politics to criticism, history of our state, culture and tradition. He was a wonderful human being, warm, friendly and always full of humour. He’s a special person. He’s different from most people you meet. He had an enormous sense of history. Recently he wasn’t going out much. He was working more from home and doing a lot of writing. Socially he wasn’t interested in keeping a high profile. He was a private person that way.”
Deepa Subramanian, a city based gallerist recalled, “At the launch of my gallery in 2010 April, he was the Chief Guest. He initially said ‘I can’t promise you; don’t mention my name on the invite’. But he came and stayed for about an hour. He was such a gentleman. No fuss at all. He came on time, did his job. and wouldn’t talk much.”
Passionate cricketer
I am extremely saddened by this news. He was a very well-respected individual. Personally, I have had very limited interaction with him. He once invited me for a party at his palace and I remember him calling me up to congratulate me after I became the captain of India. He was not well in the run up to the recent KSCA elections. I wish he had taken care of his health. My thoughts are with his family.
Anil Kumble, former India cricket captain
He was very happy when we won the recent KSCA elections. He had definite plans for the next three years and was very keen to implement them at the earliest. His demise is really unfortunate.
Brijesh Patel, former Test cricketer
As a Mysorean who grew up watching Mysore’s royal family, I feel a great sense of loss at the passing away of Srikantadatta Narasimharaja Wadiyar. We didn’t live too far from the Mysore palace. I fondly remember watching Narasimharaja Wadiyar and his father during the colourful Dasara celebrations every year. Mysore has been synonymous with the palace and the royal family. Mysoreans will agree that the Maharaja tradition has enriched Mysore and the royal family has made unparalleled contribution. We considered the royals as part of our own families. Today, I am saddened.
Javagal Srinath, former Test cricketer
source: http://www.bangaloremirror.com / Bangalore Mirror / Home> Bangalore> Other / by Bangalore Mirror Bureau / December 11th, 2013
