Krishnaraja Wadiyar IV vs Mongkut

Krishnaraja Wadiyar IV established the Mysore Representative Assembly, one of the first legislative bodies in a princely state. It allowed elected members to discuss policies and budgets, giving the people a voice in governance.

Krishnaraja supported women's education by establishing schools and colleges for girls. He also enacted laws to raise the age of marriage and improve the status of women, contributing to social progress in Mysore.

Krishnaraja launched a comprehensive economic development plan that included industrialization, irrigation projects, and hydroelectric power. The Krishnarajasagara Dam and the Mysore Iron and Steel Works were key projects that boosted the state's economy.

Krishnaraja founded the University of Mysore, the first university in the state and one of the earliest in India. It promoted higher education and research, and became a model for other princely states.

Mahatma Gandhi praised Krishnaraja Wadiyar IV as a 'Rajarshi' (royal sage) for his enlightened rule and social reforms. Gandhi's endorsement enhanced the Maharaja's reputation as a progressive and benevolent ruler.

Mongkut engaged in extensive correspondence with Western leaders, including President James Buchanan and Pope Pius IX, and with missionaries and scholars. He sought to learn about Western science, technology, and governance.

As a former monk, Mongkut reformed Buddhist monastic education by emphasizing Pali studies and scriptural accuracy. He founded the Dhammayuttika Nikaya order, which focused on strict adherence to Buddhist teachings.

Mongkut employed Western advisors, including Anna Leonowens, to teach his children and assist in modernizing the court. He also hired European experts to help with military, legal, and administrative reforms.

King Mongkut signed the Bowring Treaty with Britain, opening Siam to free trade and granting extraterritorial rights to British subjects. This treaty ended Siam's isolation and set a precedent for relations with other Western powers.