Mysuru king Yaduveer Krishnadatta Chamaraja Wadiyar is stepping into electoral politics as the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) candidate for the Mysore Lok Sabha constituency in Karnataka. The young leader, known for his royal lineage, aims to bring a fresh perspective to the electoral scene and is focused on development and modernization for the city. In an interview with Arun Dev and Saubhadra Chatterji, he shares his vision for Mysore and discusses his goals for the state. Here are the key takeaways from the conversation:
Royalty in Name Only: Despite his royal background, Wadiyar dismisses any special privileges associated with his title. He emphasizes that his entry into politics is driven by a desire to contribute to India’s progress. “These titles such as Maharaja or prince mean nothing in today’s India,” he says, highlighting that he is fighting the elections to work for the country’s development.
Building on Mysore’s Heritage: Wadiyar’s vision for Mysore is tied to its rich heritage and cultural significance. He notes that Mysore is a critical part of Karnataka’s heritage corridor and has the potential to become the state’s cultural and tourism hub. He plans to capitalize on this by promoting agriculture, tourism, and IT sectors in the region. “We have an overarching vision of Viksit Bharat 2047 that will obviously influence our local vision as well,” he explains.
Infrastructure and Connectivity: Wadiyar acknowledges the need for better infrastructure to support Mysore’s growth. He believes that improving airport facilities and other transport links will boost the city’s connectivity and enhance its attractiveness as a tourism and business destination. Additionally, he emphasizes the importance of industry and IT in diversifying the city’s economy.
Alliance with JD(S): With the BJP forming a natural alliance with the Janata Dal (Secular), Wadiyar is optimistic about the future of politics in Karnataka. He suggests that this partnership could lead to significant changes in the state’s political environment, fostering a collaborative approach to governance. “It’s a very natural alliance,” he remarks, indicating that his campaign reflects this new spirit of cooperation.
As Wadiyar embarks on his political journey, his focus remains on delivering results for the people of Mysore and Karnataka. His entry into electoral politics marks a significant step, as he brings with him a unique perspective shaped by his royal heritage and a commitment to the development and prosperity of the region.