India, Feb. 16 -- City artisan couple's miniature mantra for success

By Nandini Srinivasan

From selling miniature wooden furniture on the footpaths outside Mysuru Dasara Exhibition to crafting intricate replicas of Mysore's iconic structures, J. Murugesh, the man behind 'Mysore Miniatures,' has carved a unique niche in the world of handicrafts.

His journey is a tale of resilience, creativity and community support that transformed a modest hobby into a thriving cottage industry.

It all began 35 years ago when Murugesh hand-crafted the first wooden miniature of the Mysore Palace. Though rudimentary compared to today's polished models, it was the seed of an idea that has since blossomed into a celebrated craft.

Now, his workshop hums wi...