The building is that of Maharani's girl school, set up in 1868 when Mysore was a princely state. The school dates back to the days when schooling wasn't a priority for girls, and few of them were sent to school. Viewed in this light the Maharani's school was a pioneering step in women's education. It is said the founding principal of the school gave the lead by sending his wife to this school.
My SkyWatch photo.
