Mysuru Royal Family Member Leads Protest Against Chamundi Hills Development
In a significant environmental stand, Pramoda Devi Wadiyar, a prominent member of Mysuru's erstwhile royal family, has strongly opposed development works on the sacred Chamundi Hills. Speaking at a protest organized at the foothills on Sunday, she asserted that the hills must remain a protected forest area, free from permanent concrete structures.
Concerns Over Permanent Structures
Pramoda Devi Wadiyar explicitly stated, "No concrete works should be carried out atop the hills." She raised serious concerns about ongoing civic works under the Union government's PRASHAD (Pilgrimage Rejuvenation and Spiritual Augmentation Drive) scheme, alleging they appear permanent despite government claims of being temporary.
The royal family member described the development activities as "destruction of the hills" and pledged to stand with citizens opposing the project. Her participation adds considerable weight to the growing environmental movement in the historic city.
Balancing Amenities and Preservation
While clarifying she isn't against providing basic facilities for devotees, senior citizens, and persons with disabilities, Wadiyar highlighted specific implementation issues. She alleged the current execution leaves insufficient space for essential religious activities, including pulling the sacred Chamundeshwari chariot during festivals.
"It will lead to congestion, including for devotees standing in queues for darshan," she warned. "Devotees come here to seek the goddess's blessings, but the way these works are progressing will only inconvenience them."
Historical Precedent and Structural Risks
Recalling past damage from development activities, Wadiyar revealed that cracks had developed in the historic Rajendra Vilas Palace during construction of an earlier parking lot, requiring nearly three years of repairs. This historical precedent underscores the sensitivity of construction on the hill's fragile ecosystem.
Protesters echoed these concerns, warning that continued digging could eventually endanger the structural stability of the Sri Chamundeshwari Temple, one of Karnataka's most important religious sites.
Mass Participation and Legal Options
The protest saw participation from thousands of Mysuru residents, including students and senior citizens, who began gathering around 7:30 AM. Participants undertook the symbolic act of marching up the hill's 1,000 steps to demonstrate their commitment to preserving the sacred landscape.
This marked the second "walk-from-the-steps" protest organized by environmental groups opposing the PRASHAD scheme works. Wadiyar indicated readiness to seek intervention through legal channels, stating, "We can seek intervention from the court and the goddess," highlighting both judicial and spiritual dimensions to the conservation effort.
The growing movement reflects deepening concerns about balancing religious tourism development with ecological preservation in India's heritage sites, particularly in culturally significant locations like Mysuru's Chamundi Hills.
