Maharani Kempananjammani was the esteemed Maharani of Mysore

She was also queen mother and regent of the Kingdom of Mysore

She funded the construction of KRS

Maharani Kempananjammani, the esteemed Maharani of Mysore and later queen mother and regent of the Kingdom of Mysore, is celebrated for her extraordinary acts of altruism and vision. One of her most remarkable contributions was selling her family jewels to fund the construction of the Krishna Raja Sagara (KRS) Dam across the Cauvery River in Mysore. This dam not only became a crucial infrastructure project but also generated power, benefiting millions in both Tamil Nadu and Karnataka. The Maharani’s sacrifice of her precious jewels for the greater good exemplifies her compassion and foresight, ensuring a sustainable water and power supply for future generations.

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Beyond her contributions to infrastructure, Maharani Kempananjammani was a staunch advocate for education, particularly for girls. Recognizing the transformative power of education, she established several educational institutions, enabling about 12,000 girls in her kingdom to study in 235 public schools. Her efforts significantly advanced female education, setting a precedent for women’s empowerment in the region.

In addition to her contributions to education, Maharani also provided 372 acres of land to establish the Indian Institute of Science (IISc), which has since become one of India’s premier research institutions. Her support for IISc underscores her commitment to scientific and technological advancement.

Maharani Kempananjammani’s legacy is a testament to her selflessness and dedication to the welfare of her people, leaving an indelible mark on the history of Mysore and beyond.