M. Kantharaj Urs facts for kids

Sir Maddur Kantharaj Urs was an important Indian leader who lived from 1870 to 1923. He was a royal family member, a government worker, and a top administrator. He served as the 20th Diwan of Mysore, which was like being the chief minister or prime minister of the Mysore kingdom, from 1918 to 1922.

Early Life and Education

Kantharaj Urs was born on September 20, 1870. His parents were Narasaraja Urs and Kempananjammanni. His family, the Maddur Urs branch, was part of the important Kalale Wadiyar dynasty. His older sister was Maharani Kempananjammanni Devi, who later became a queen.

He went to Madras Christian College from 1892 to 1893. He did very well and graduated with special honors. He was the first person from his community, the Ursu community, to achieve such a high academic award.

Career as a Leader

In 1894, Kantharaj Urs started working for the government in the Mysore civil service. He began as a Probationary Assistant Commissioner.

His brother-in-law, Maharaja Chamaraja Wadiyar X, sadly passed away in December 1894. After this, Kantharaj Urs's sister became the Queen Regent of Mysore in 1895. She chose him to be her Special Assistant and Private Secretary from 1895 to 1899.

Later, in 1918, Kantharaj Urs became the Diwan of Mysore. He took over this important role from Sir M. Vishveshwaraya. He served his nephew, Maharaja Krishnaraja Wadiyar IV, as the Diwan until 1922.

Family Life

Kantharaj Urs married his niece, Princess Jayalakshami Amanni. She was the oldest daughter of his sister, Maharani Kempananjammani Devi. They had one daughter named Rajakumari Lelavathi.

Their home was the beautiful Jayalakshmi Vilas Mansion in Mysore. Today, this mansion is part of the University of Mysore.

Kantharaj Urs passed away on October 3, 1923.