Mysore is commonly described as the “City of Palaces” and there are seven palaces including this one. It refers specifically to this one within the Old Fort. It is the residence of the Wadiyar Dynasty and the seat of the kingdom of Mysore. The kings of Mysore were devotees of Goddess Chamundi; hence the palace is facing the Chamundi Hills. Mysore is one of the most famous tourist attractions after the Taj Mahal.

It was a lovely Wednesday, the Eid holiday. My beloved family and me, we all planned to visit Mysore palace. I was very excited to see this beautiful historical monument. A much-awaited visit to a magnificent structural palace.

When we all entered the gate, my parents could not believe it because they were seeing the palace after 15 years. When we entered the palace, we started with a wooden replica of the palace. Chamundeshwari idol is kept at the beginning of the palace. We all prayed and took blessings from the Goddess and moved ahead. We found a throne of a king made of Pure Gold around 80 tons. One guide uncle assisted us who was giving us the information about the palace, its architecture, the king and queens that belonged to the palace, strength of the armour, horses, elephant etc.

We saw 3D portraits of the kings, Queens on the walls, draped in a lovely saree with lots of diamond and gem stones studded jewellery. Some battles too were portrayed. Strength of the armour, huge infantry, cavalry was displayed. We saw a room full of boxes that were used to deliver letters, gifts. Then uncle took us to the weaponry room and my brother was so excited to see it. He liked this room the most. There was also another room that had dead animals kept on with a real skin cladded on them. We clicked few lovely pictures and captured the moments permanently.

Then we came to the real architecture of a Palace. Its Durbar Hall, such a massive hall, just could not believe that hall roof is made of sandalwood with fine carving on it! Few doors were built in silver. The colour combination used for wall paintings;its chandelier was simply astonishing. The place has wonderful natural light, well ventilated. There is a statue of Tipu Sultan made with wax too.

Everything in life has changed. Quarantine has taught me that life is very uncertain. My parents have taken this as an opportunity to stay together as a happy and healthy family. I am trying to be disciplined myself for my mama and papa. Though I am unable to meet my friends I am very happy with my family.