The Palace By Night
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We returned to Mysore Palace at dusk.
Simon, our guide and driver, had scheduled the route with care.
It was a Sunday evening, which in Mysore is a magical time.
On our arrival the flood lights were already on.
But as twilight gave way to the darkness of night, the illuminations were suddenly dimmed.
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When light returned it was as a myriad pinpoints enmeshing the palace, highlighting its intricate design, its domes, columns and arches.
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From within the courtyard, a military band gave a concert to the enchanted audience,
While children played with their light-emitting toys.
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Mysore’s ethereal son et lumière.
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Neither Use Nor Ornament 
Goodness me, that is a stunning sight!
May 9, 2011 at 6:21 pm
You’re right! And I’ve a sneaking suspicion that it was the inspiration for Harrods’ lighting scheme!
May 9, 2011 at 8:15 pm
You got there before me. It was my first thought. Then it was, ‘Mercy! Think of their electricity bill.’
May 9, 2011 at 9:26 pm
The palace is now owned by the state of Karnataka, so no one, as such, has to pay the bill!
What I couldn’t successfully photograph were a couple of workers with a ladder, changing light-bulbs on one of the towers. I suppose it can only be done during that one hour, on Sunday nights when the lamps are alight.
May 10, 2011 at 6:42 am
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