From Local Press to National Struggle: The Contribution of Mysore State's Newspapers to India's Freedom Movement (1800–1947)

The newspapers of the Mysore princely state were instrumental in shaping political consciousness and fostering nationalist sentiment from 1800 to 1947. Operating within a semi-autonomous governance structure, these publications—both in English and Kannada—served as critical platforms for disseminating information, promoting civic engagement, and mobilizing readers in support of India’s independence movement. This study employs archival research and qualitative content analysis of editorials, opinion pieces, and letters to the editor to examine how editors strategically educated the public, advocated social reform, and linked local issues with broader national struggles. The findings reveal that Mysore newspapers functioned not merely as instruments of communication but as active agents of social and political change. They facilitated political awareness, encouraged participation in civic and nationalist initiatives, and nurtured cultural nationalism through the promotion of Kannada language, literature, and regional identity. By bridging local concerns with national aspirations, the Mysore press significantly contributed to the development of an informed, engaged, and politically conscious citizenry. This study underscores the pivotal role of regional newspapers in India’s freedom movement, highlighting the enduring impact of print media on nation-building, social reform, and public discourse.