Empire Podcast Episode 228: "The Man Who Lived A Thousand Lives: Prisoner of War (Ep 2)"

Release Date: February 11, 2025
Hosts: William Dalrymple and Anita Anand

Introduction

In the second part of the second segment of "The Man Who Lived A Thousand Lives: Prisoner of War," hosts William Dalrymple and Anita Anand delve deeper into the extraordinary life of Gustav Hermann Krumbagel—a German horticulturist whose profound contributions shaped the gardens and agricultural landscape of Mysore, India. Despite his significant impact, Krumbagel's life was marred by the hardships of being interned during both World Wars, highlighting the complex interplay between personal loyalty and imperial politics.

Gustav Krumbagel: The Maharaja's Gardener

[02:05]
Anita Anand expresses her admiration for the story of Krumbagel, noting, "I spent quite a lot of time digging up in Maharaja archival stories and think I realized I'd never heard of this guy."

William introduces Krumbagel as a pivotal figure in Mysore, a prolific gardener who transformed the region's horticulture. Their exploration begins with Krumbagel's early days in Bangalore, where he overshadowed his contemporaries with innovative botanical practices.

Contributions to Mysore's Horticulture

[08:07]
Anita Anand outlines the richness of Mysore under the Wadiya dynasty, stating, "It is ruled by the independent maharajas and princes and the zams and nawabs who've made deals with the British."

William elaborates on Krumbagel's forward-thinking initiatives, such as importing millions of saplings from Australia and implementing scientific agricultural techniques. He emphasizes Krumbagel's dedication to creating "perpetual spring" through diverse plantings, which earned Bangalore the reputation of the "Garden City."

Internment During World War I

[17:00]
The conversation shifts to the turmoil of World War I, where Krumbagel, despite his deep integration into Indian society, is interned by the British as an enemy alien. William narrates, "Krumbagel begs the maharaja to intervene," highlighting his desperate plea to remain in India.

Anita adds personal resonance to the story, mentioning, "This was actually considered and on the cards to deport his wife Klara to Germany and him to Germany as well," underscoring the personal toll of imperial policies on individuals like Krumbagel.

Resilience and Continued Work

Despite the hardships of internment, Krumbagel persevered in his passion for horticulture. [12:52]
Anita Anand points out Mysore's tradition of botanical excellence, referencing Tipu Sultan's introduction of sericulture and its lasting impact on the Indian silk industry.

William praises Krumbagel's scientific approach, stating, "He collects papers and writes papers on the pests that attack all the plants," illustrating his commitment to sustainable and knowledgeable gardening practices.

Internment During World War II

[28:55]
As World War II looms, Krumbagel faces internment once more. The hosts discuss how, despite his advanced age and contributions, he is subjected to captivity under the British regime. Anita recounts a touching anecdote about the Maharaja commissioning a lifelike statue of Krumbagel, symbolizing his importance to Mysore.

William reflects on the psychological impact of repeated internment, noting Krumbagel's "penniless" state upon release and his reliance on the Maharaja's generosity for his final years.

Legacy in Independent India

[32:20]
With India's independence approaching, Krumbagel's expertise is sought after by the new Republic. Anita Anand explains, "The new Republic, the Indian Republic, appoints Krumbagel director of Agriculture in Mysore," highlighting his transition from royal patronage to national service.

William connects this to the broader narrative of India's transformation, stating, "Krumbagel inadvertently is part of the fabric of Indian history," illustrating how his legacy transcended colonial boundaries.

Memorialization and Rediscovery

[37:01]
Following his death in 1956, Krumbagel's contributions are honored through a well-maintained tombstone and a heartfelt inscription: "Whatever he touched, he adorned German by birth, but his heart belonged to India." Anita Anand touches on the emotional aftermath for his wife, who tragically dies shortly after returning to England.

William discusses recent efforts to recognize Krumbagel's legacy, including a local documentary and the restoration of his tombstone with marigold garlands, signifying a renewed appreciation for his life's work.

Conclusion

The episode culminates with William and Anita reflecting on Krumbagel's enduring impact on Mysore's gardens and Indian horticulture. They emphasize the importance of remembering such multifaceted individuals who navigate complex identities and loyalties within the broader context of empire and independence.

Anita Anand concludes with excitement for upcoming series on Ireland and their next guest, Patrick Radden Keefe, promising listeners more intricate tales of empire and its lasting effects.

Notable Quotes

• Anita Anand [05:02]: "This is the story of Lord Lovatt, having famously come ashore at D Day with his clan piper... and a German machine gunner actually had both of them in his sights and said, I can't possibly shoot a man with an umbrella and a man playing the bagpiper."

• William Dalrymple [10:52]: "He sends notices out to the Mysore farmers... and he creates sort of the system of orchards throughout Karnataka."

• Anita Anand [17:51]: "Krumbagel, by this time, is a young family as well. He's got kids, he's got his wife, you know, his English rose, Clara, who he's brought to India with him. He's made his life there."

• William Dalrymple [26:50]: "Krumbagel was right. His part of India particularly did need was better irrigation and better agriculture."

• Anita Anand [36:40]: "Mysore opened up its archives and said, yeah, this is him. They started collecting all the information from Kew and sort of started getting all of this together."

Final Thoughts

Episode 228 of Empire offers a compelling exploration of Gustav Hermann Krumbagel's life, illustrating how individual stories intersect with the grand narratives of empire, war, and nation-building. Through the diligent research and engaging storytelling of William Dalrymple and Anita Anand, listeners gain a nuanced understanding of how Krumbagel's legacy continues to influence modern India.