2 days ago
Journey Through Mysore's Legends: A Must-See Storytelling Experience
Mysore is a city located in Karnataka, India and attracts visitors with its majestic palaces and for its heritage. Apart from that, the state has plenty of folklore as well as myths. Such stories have been told from one ancestor to their descendants forming an enchanting vibe around Mysore. So, let's go back to folklore and tell some of the stories that enclose the city's rich cultural heritage.
Curse of the Chamundi Hills
Many people have heard and known about Chamundi Hills and its popular deity, Chamundeshwari. According to their mythology, the Chamundi Hills were ruled by a demon named Mahishasura, the same for which the city is named. Mahishasura's rule over the land was so bad that the gods needed to seek help from Goddess Durga. She took the avatar of Chamundeshwari to kill the demon.
As the Chamundeshwari was fighting with Mahishasura, it was said that the battle lasted for a couple of days. Eventually, the gods won. Yet, Mahishasura is said to curse the area after dying saying it would always be ruled by him. The strong statue of Mahishasura on top of the hills serves as a reminder of the tale.
Quick Details:
Geographic Coordinates: Chamundi Hills 13 Km from Mysour city center.
Foremost Attraction: Chamundeshwari Temple, one of the major pilgrimage holy sights.
Highlight of the Festival: Mysore Dussehra commemorates the goddess's triumph over Mahishasura.
Enigmatic Lalitha Mahal Palace
The former Lalitha Mahal Palace currently functions as a splendorous hotel and is immersed in its own beauty. The Palace was constructed in 1921 by Maharaja Krishnaraja Wodeyar IV and is not only rich in its stories but also has remained one of the major attractions in the Town. People say that the royal family haunting the Palace after its construction is the reason for all the dreadful events marked to this place.
Staff and Guests have reported eerie sensations like Strange noises, unexplainable light flickering, and changes in temperature. Some even wonder that a spirit haunted by a deceased member of the Royal family is unwillingly roaming around mourning the loss of life long desires unsated. It is said that despite many attributing these marks to old architecture, such events are believed to be the reason that makes this Palace wrapped in mysterious allure.
Quick Facts
Established: 1921 by Maharaja Krishnaraja Wodeyar IV.
Form: European architecture.
Preservation Status: Functions as a heritage hotel offering historical tours.
Enchanted Lake of Karanji
In terms of hidden treasures, Karanji Lake in Mysuru ticks all the boxes. Legends say the lake was once cursed by a divine being, and it turned into an eternal place of beauty and peace when a sage meditated by the shores. The lore seals Karanji Lake as a beautiful getaway, but its true charm lies deep in real life.
Locals believe in Karanji's extraordinary and magical waters, and the sense of tranquility visitors describe while walking near the shores of the lake is nothing short of remarkable. Karanji Lake is not only a beautiful tourist attraction, but a spiritual one too.
Quick Facts:
Location: Adjacent to Mysore Zoo.
Features: Bird watching, boating, and a butterfly park.
Mythical Belief: Calming and healing energies.
Specter of Devaraja Market
Devaraja Market, the bustling heart of trade in Mysuru, is decorated with its own ghostly tales. Vendors talk about a shadowy figure coming during the calm hours, assumed to be the spirit of a poor merchant who got burnt alive in the market decades ago.
It is said that the spirit is unbothered and only appears when counting money or looking over merchandise. Certain vendors even claim that putting an offering on their stalls helps them have better sales as a way to honor the deceased spirit.
Did You Know?
Founded: 100 years ago.
Highlights: Fresh fruits and vegetables, flowers, spices, and artisan crafts.
Tradition: Virtuous ghost of a merchant haunts the marketplace.
Mystery of Mysore Sandalwood
Mysore's reputation as the capital of sandalwood stems from an old tale. It is believed that Lord Krishna came to the city and planted the first sandalwood tree after a devotee mistakenly poured out holy sandal paste and the areas that it touched grew into a sandalwood tree.
This origin Myth grants spiritual importance to Mysuru's sandalwood industry which still stands tall. It is believed that sandalwood from Mysore is among the best in the world and Mysuru's sandalwood products are said to carry the scent of divine blessings.
Did You Know?
Market Leader: Mysore Sandalwood Oil Factory.
Offer: Sandalwood oil, soap, and sculptures.
Legendary Start: Associated with Lord Krishna's blessings.
Mythical River of Srirangapatna
About 30 minutes away from Mysuru lies Srirangapatna, where the Kaveri river's unusual behavior has many mysteries surrounding it. One mystery includes the belief that the river disappears for periods of time each year as a sign of respect for a sage that undertook penance nearby.
While many have attributed this phenomenon to geology, its spiritual significance gives it a whole new meaning. Followers often pray at certain locations in hopes that they will be able to see this rare event and gain blessings.
Quick Facts:
Location: 19 km away from Mysuru.
Historical Significance: Former Capital City of Tipu Sultan
Legend: The river pays homage to an ancient sage.
Conclusion
The myths and legends of Mysuru are just as fascinating as its rich architecture and culture. Each story transforms the city into an enigma waiting to be unveiled with every visit. From the valiant goddess Chamundeshwari to the secrets behind Lalitha Mahal Palace, every corner of Mysore calls for those who wish to learn more about its identity.
