Close to the entry I could spot a very useful information for the visitors desirous to know details of the exhibits. It is about a free WiFi connection to download ‘ Pinakin ‘ app. The app is a step by step guide to the palace. Having downloaded the app and checking that it was working well, I proceeded to the palace entry where one is required to get the ticket punched.
The palace entry is through a huge Elephant Gate on both sides of which one can find trophies of elephant heads displayed. Then we come across a section showcasing deities of Gods and goddesses. The deity of Ma Chamundi (Durga) is prominent among the collection. This is the procession deity which used to be carried to Chamundi Hill temple for pooja by the King on elephant and brought back after navratras with procession passing through the city. For carrying the deity there was a golden howda in the shape of a temple in which King used to ride during Dasara. The festival of Dasara in Mysore is not celebrated as victory of Ram over Ravan, but as victory of Ma Durga known as Chamundi over Mahishasur. The universal message is otherwise victory of truth over evil. The other idols are sculpted in best marble of the quality of Taj Mahal.
There is also a royal collection of dolls displayed in a section which also used to be showcased to the public during certain festivals.
The collection of caskets, mementos and invitations received from neighbouring states is another attraction. Along the beautiful paintings of royal dynasty are silver and cut glass chairs used for visiting dignitaries. Also on display is a plaster of Paris statue of King Krishnaraja Wadiyar sitting on a chair who had got this very palace constructed.
The wedding hall is one of the best pieces of architecture in the palace. It has beautifully designed pillars painted in blue. The floor is designed as carpet and one can see huge chandeliers and ceiling fans decorating the ceiling. The chandeliers have electric bulbs and it shows that way back in 1912 the palace was electrified and must also have had electricity generation facility.
On the first floor one comes across a private and a public durbar hall with beautiful pillars bedecked in intricate designs. The public durbar hall with seats for the courtiers on both sides is open to the ground in front. The carvings on pillars and colourful glass ceiling with huge chandeliers is a spectre to admire and worth appreciation by art lovers. The use of metallic golden, blue, red and phirozi make the carvings more prominent. Huge mirrors on the walls reflect these pillars giving multiplying effect.
