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BITS Pilani’s date with the Wodeyars

JAIPUR: BITS alumnus and author of the latest history on the Wodeyars, Vikram Sampath, on Saturday introduced his book, “Splendours of Royal Mysore; The Untold Story of Wodeyars” to the campus audience at BITS Pilani. Vice-Chancellor L.K.Maheswari released the book at a function, which also screened a documentary on the process of writing the book.

Mr.Sampath, now the executive manager of City Bank, Bangalore after doing his M.Sc. and B.E from BITS Pilani during 1997-2002, said it was a “challenging task” to document the 500 years of the Wodeyars’ rule in Mysore from a modern perspective. “History, though fascinating, is the most complicated subject. Yet, if information is analyzed properly it remains with the readers forever,” he stated.

The author said he found it advantageous to be a non-historian while writing the book.

“It helped in the investigation of the information and in documenting it without holding any pre-conceived notions and biases. After all, Mysore is not just a name or a palace. It symbolizes the culture and aspirations of the residents,” he observed.

Prof. Maheshwari, who hailed the foray of a BITSian into an altogether new realm, said any history book was not just information of the past but also reflection of the future aspirations of the people. The other speakers noted that eminent historians have hailed the book, published by Rupa & Co.

The author turned technocrat became emotional when he acknowledged the role of BITS Pilani “as a nourishing mother” in shaping his career and personality. Mr.Sampath appreciated the flexible system of education provided at the institute and highlighted the important role played by different clubs and associations there in moulding his personality.“The Splendours of Royal Mysore: The Untold Story of Wodeyars”, was first released by Karnataka Governor Rameshwar Thakur, in March 2008.

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