Mysuru has nurtured prominent figures across literature, sports, governance, and business:
* **Krishnaraja Wadiyar IV:** The progressive Maharaja of Mysore who championed education, industry, and the arts, laying the foundation for the modern city. * **R. K. Narayan:** Renowned Indian author whose famous fictional town "Malgudi" was heavily inspired by his life and walks in Mysuru. * **R. K. Laxman:** Legendary cartoonist and creator of "The Common Man," born and raised in Mysuru. * **K. Pattabhi Jois:** Influential yoga guru who developed and popularized the Ashtanga Vinyasa Yoga style, drawing students globally to Mysuru. * **Javagal Srinath:** Former Indian fast bowler and current ICC match referee, often referred to as the "Mysore Express." * **Gita Gopinath:** First Deputy Managing Director of the International Monetary Fund (IMF), who grew up and completed her early schooling in Mysuru. * **N. R. Narayana Murthy:** Co-founder of Infosys. Though born elsewhere in the state, he obtained his engineering degree from the National Institute of Engineering (NIE) in Mysuru and established the company's largest campus here.