Krishna Raja Wodeyar III was the Maharaja of the princely state of Mysore in southern India from 1831 to 1868. He was known for his progressive policies and efforts to modernize the state, including improvements in education, infrastructure, and public health. His reign is often regarded as a period of cultural renaissance in Mysore. Under his rule, the state saw the establishment of various institutions, including schools and hospitals. He also promoted the arts, leading to a flourishing of Kannada literature and music. His contributions significantly shaped the development of Mysore and left a lasting legacy in the region.