There are two historical statues of a postman and a commandant inside the Karnataka Armed Reserve Police (KARP) building. Both of these were erected during 1907 and are 115 years old. They are made of limestone, sand and lime plaster. The story behind these statues is indeed interesting.
Postman Anche Basappa:
Anche Basappa, as the name itself suggests, was a postman who lived during the reign of Nalwadi Krishnaraja Wodeyar. History says that he had not taken even a single leave during his entire service. Despite weather abnormalities or any other situations, he made sure that he delivered all the letters on time. He was also a compassionate soul who listened to the miseries of people and helped them with suggestions when in need. As a mark of respect to his professionalism and goodness, his life size statue was erected as per the instructions of Nalwadi Krishnaraja Wodeyar.
Commandant Bhujangarao Jagadale:
Bhujangarao Jagadale served as a Mounted Guard or Commandant of Nalwadi Krishnaraja Wadiyar in 1907 and later became the head of a small group of Mounted Police Force. He was also an excellent Polo player and a member of the erstwhile Mysuru Rulers Polo Team. History says that he used to play Polo with HH Nalwadi himself. He was known for his discipline. Hence, Nalwadi ordered installation of his statue. He also has the credit of a Guard of Honour on behalf of the Maharaja when Gandhi and Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel visited Mysuru. His voice was so ringing that when there were no mikes and loudspeakers, it could be heard loud and clear even by the last row of soldiers in the parade.
Tune of the history of Mysuru Police Band
Each and every aspect of Mysuru is blended with rich culture and heritage. For instance, the core duty of any Police department in general is to maintain law and order. But in Mysuru, there is a special wing in the City Police department which plays melodious music and enthrals connoisseurs of music. Mysuru Police Band has a royal legacy indeed.
The Police band has evolved over the past one and a half century. Following Western influence, an English Band was started with musicians drawn from the best music schools. It was meant to play western music. Gradually, the troupe started to play Carnatic music. There were two wings called Indian Orchestra and English Band during the period of HH Chamaraja Wadiyar X, an accomplished musician himself and a great patron of music.
These bands came to be known as the Palace Band under the patronage of Nalvadi Krishnaraja Wodeyar. A separate Band House was also constructed in Nazarbad during his time. After Independence, in 1951 the Palace Bands (Indian Orchestra and English Band) were integrated into the Police department. The sanctioned strength was 56 and 34 musicians respectively. It was renamed as Mysuru Government Orchestra later.
Police band is a real treat to ears. It is played by trained personnel during Dasara, functions of Palace, Police Sports, during the visit of VIPs & VVIPs and other functions as per orders of the IGP.