Gun House", of Mysore city - Why is the colonial structure in a state of neglect?

Navrang India January 20, 2025

 

Gun House, close to palace, Mysore  Times of India

Mysore, a historic city in Karnataka, South India, was once the vibrant seat of power for the Wadiyar dynasty. Renowned for its regal heritage, the city is one of India’s premier tourist destinations. Its quiet charm is enriched by a wealth of architectural wonders that reflect the unique ethos of the erstwhile Wadiyar rulers and their interactions with colonial powers. Following the rendition of their kingdom by the British, the Wadiyars resumed their rule in 1881, with Maharajah Chamarajah X ascending the throne. Under the dual oversight of a British Resident and a Dewan, Mysore thrived as a princely state until India’s independence in 1947.

Mysore city. Maps of India

The Wadiyars were instrumental in creating an architectural legacy that extended far beyond the grand Mysore Palace. The city is adorned with numerous impressive structures, some of which date back over a century and serve as a testament to their reign. These buildings evoke an era when the Wadiyars were a significant political and cultural force in South India. Among the notable structures in Mysore is the Gun House, an unassuming yet historically significant relic of the city’s colonial and royal past.

Gun House, close to palace, Mysore. .inspirock.com

Located near the Mysore Palace, where the grand Dasara festival is celebrated annually, the Gun House is a striking red building with white trim. Despite its historical importance, the structure is currently in a state of neglect. Built in 1910, this architectural gem served as a gun shed, guardhouse, and office for the Maharajah’s military personnel. It later became a museum showcasing armory and cannons used by the royal forces. Positioned strategically near the palace, it also housed British soldiers tasked with defending the Maharajah during potential threats.

The Gun House stands out for its architectural style, blending European Baroque elements with Tudor influences. The central hall, with its sloped roof and dormer windows, is a key feature, allowing light and ventilation to reach the top floors while enhancing the hall's height. The dormer windows, protruding from the roofline, add to the building’s unique aesthetic. Flanking the central hall are rooms with gabled roofs adorned with molded pediments. The Tudor-style battlements, characterized by alternating merlons and crenels, contribute to the building’s fortress-like appearance, adding both decorative and defensive elements.

The Baroque elements, inspired by 17th-century Italian architecture, are evident in the ornate details, including arched openings framed in white stonework and the intricate craftsmanship throughout. The combination of these European influences makes the Gun House a distinctive structure, unlike any other in the city.

Originally built to store weapons and ammunition for the Maharajah’s defense, the Gun House was later converted into a museum, providing visitors with a glimpse into the military history of the Wadiyar dynasty. However, the building is now closed to the public and has fallen into disrepair. Its proximity to the Mysore Palace underscores its strategic importance, and the architectural ingenuity reflects the city’s rich heritage.

The current neglect of the Gun House underscores the need for urgent intervention by the heritage authorities to restore and preserve this remarkable piece of Mysore’s history. Reviving this structure could not only attract tourists but also serve as a tribute to the city’s regal and colonial past, ensuring that its legacy endures for future generations.