Maharani Kempananjammani Vani Vilasa Sannidhana's life took a sudden turn at the age of 26 when her husband, Maharaja Chamarajendra Wadiyar X, passed away unexpectedly at the age of 31. Overcome with grief, she mourned for nearly two days, feeling as though life had lost all meaning. She blamed herself irrationally and fell unconscious amidst her tears.
However, on the third day, Kempananjammani resolved to take charge as the queen regent of Mysore and lead the state in honour of her late husband's memory. It was as though she pressed a reset button, drawing strength from within to steer Mysore towards prosperity.
With determination, she tackled critical issues including healthcare, water supply, electricity, and education. At a time when the region faced the threat of drought, she spearheaded the construction of a dam and initiated hydroelectric projects, demonstrating visionary leadership ahead of her time.
If you reside in Bengaluru today, you will likely encounter public institutions and landmarks bearing her name: Vani Vilas Circle, Vani Vilasapura Dam, Vani Vilasa Road, and Vani Vilasa Bridge.
Early Life and Marriage
Kempananjammani hailed from the royal family of the Maddur branch in Kalale (now in Mysuru district). She received a comprehensive education in Kannada, Sanskrit, and English. At the tender age of 12, she was married to Maharaja Chamarajendra Wadiyar X, who was 15 years old at the time, in the year 1878.
Their inheritance of the titles of Maharaja and Maharani came three years later under the Rendition Act of 1881, placing them at the helm of Mysore province under British supervision. Despite these constraints, Maharaja Chamarajendra implemented various improvements, including famine relief efforts, educational enhancements, and infrastructural developments.
Becoming Queen Regent
After Maharaja Chamarajendra's untimely demise in 1894, Kempananjammani, then only 26 years old, assumed the role of queen regent. She was entrusted with the responsibility of ruling Mysore until their eldest son, Krishnaraja Wadiyar, came of age.
During her regency, she championed numerous initiatives that significantly benefited the populace. She collaborated with Seshadri Iyer to implement an irrigation project in 1898, which proved instrumental in supporting agriculture across vast swathes of land.
One of her most notable achievements was overseeing the construction of the Vanivilasa Sagar dam in Chitradurga district, which played a pivotal role in irrigation and cultivation. Additionally, under her leadership, Bengaluru received a reliable water supply from the Hesaraghatta Reservoir.
Legacy of Infrastructure and Progress
Maharani Kempananjammani was instrumental in advancing the Shivanasamudra hydroelectric project, providing electricity to key regions including Kolar Gold Fields (K.G.F.) and Bengaluru. The K. Seshadri Iyer Power Station, named in honour of her trusted advisor, marked a significant milestone in harnessing hydroelectric power.
However, her most enduring contribution was the establishment of the Krishna Raja Sagar (KRS) dam across the River Cauvery. To fund this ambitious project, she even sold her family jewellery, demonstrating extraordinary dedication to her people's well-being.
Focus on Education and Healthcare
Beyond infrastructure development, Maharani Kempananjammani prioritised education and healthcare, particularly for women. She founded numerous schools for girls, enabling thousands to receive an education. Her support extended to healthcare, where she emphasised prenatal and postnatal care, establishing dispensaries and hospitals across the state.
Maharani Kempananjammani's reign was characterised by a deep sense of compassion and dedication to her subjects. Her efforts did not go unnoticed, earning praise from figures like Lord Curzon, the Viceroy of India, who admired her exemplary virtues and contributions to society.
Her regency concluded in 1902 when her son Maharaja Krishnaraja Wadiyar ascended to the throne at the age of 18. Maharani Kempananjammani passed away in 1934, leaving behind a profound and enduring legacy.
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