Reinterpreting the Identity of Royal City : the Case of Mysuru

Abstract

Before Indian independence, the Princely states where the historic centers which are socially and culturally vibrant, and contain tangible and intangible heritage, socio-cultural values and knowledge network. And now Cities are democratic which is leading to its dynamic in nature, grows and expands over the years. In this process of urban transformation, the value and image of the cities are being diminishing. The historic urban fabric is considered as the materialized form of an urban system through its architectural elements that combine to create functional, significant, and tangible manifestation of an urban system and recognizable spaces in relation to society, the period in history, and the location. A city's urban fabric is established from the start and constantly changes in response to new developments. It is necessary to examine the intricate underlying structure and fabric of our cities. Any area's urban form reveals the physical complexity at different scales, including those of individual buildings, plots, street-blocks, and the street patterns that form towns. The ability to plan for the future effectively requires a knowledge of the past. Therefore, it is important for an urban designer, planner, and authorities to understand how cities have changed over time and the characteristics of urban dynamics. The aim of the thesis is to conserve and activate the urban identity which adds up to the Urban Character in the case of Mysuru. Mysuru is one of the cultural and heritage city which has kept alive the Royal traditions and splendor. But due to rapid and unplanned development the identity of the place is reduced. The thesis mainly focuses on balancing the older historic values with the newer developments.