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A two-volume biography of erstwhile Mysuru ruler Jayachamarajendra Wadiyar, ‘Rajarshi’ Sriman Maharaja Jayachamarajendra Wadiyar Bahaddur, was released at the Palace Grounds on Saturday. Authored by B V Sudhamani, the biography comprehensively chronicles the life and achievements of the 25th and the last ruler of Mysore state. Comprising nearly 900 pages with 60 pages of colour photographs, the book in 10 chapters chronicles the Maharaja’s life from his birth to education to coronation and rule, focusing on his contributions in detail. The book throws light on the political challenges he faced after ascending the throne in 1940. “We commend Dr Sudhamani for her work on this book. It is a comprehensive take on the life of the Maharaja,” his daughter Kamakshi Devi, said addressing the gathering. Another daughter, Indirakshi Devi, was also at the event. Carnatic music performances, including a classical composition by the Maharaja himself, was performed on the occasion. “I started working on the book in April 2018 and it took me four years to complete it,” said Sudhamani, who is a former professor of history at Maharani’s College. She said she interviewed the contemporaries of the Maharaja and did intense field work and research to collect information. “It is a very well-researched and structured book. She meticulously documented every aspect of his life,” her husband M V Rajeev said. The author has also translated some of the Maharaja's letters from English to Kannada in the book, which is a first-of-its kind initiative. Sudhamani hopes that the book will create awareness and interest among people about the Wadiyar dynasty and its contributions to Mysuru's history and culture. The biography has received positive reviews from critics as well. It was shortlisted for the Karnataka Literary Academy Award in 2019.