The Deccan Herald edition dated 7th Feb 06, carries an article on the state of the "Home stay" tourism launced by the Tourism Dept during the Dussera Festival last year.  (Read http://www.deccanherald.com/deccanherald/feb72006/state17710200626.asp for full article),

In it the correspondent mentions that the Mysoreans have not shown any interest in the concept and have failed to capitalise on the increasing popularity of the concept.  Figures are quoted with a mention that more than 400 Kodava families have registered for the "Stay at Home" tourism and are providing facilities like home cooked food, accommodation, transportation, guide etc.

Having moved in Kodagu district for about 5 years, I would compare the living style of the Kodavas as close to that of the British.  All Estates in that area invariably has a guest house a little away from the main house.  Each family has a 4 wheeler (more than 1 in many cases).  Food habits are more non-veg. 

Take the case of an average Mysorean.  They have strict religious codes in the house - certain portions of the house are "out of bounds" for visitors.  Most houses do not have a 4 wheeler (at the most a 2 wheeler).  Food is mostly vegetarian and spicy.  No seperate residential area for guest.  In most cases the family accomodates relatives who visit them in their own living quarters!

When such is the case, it will take a long time before Mysore comes to the level of taking foreign visitors as "Stay at Home" guests and it may also be uncomfortable for the tourists themselves to adjust to the lifestyle of the Mysoreans.

We still have a long way to go before we reach that stage.  I am not sure if the Dept of Tourism thought of all these before making the proposal.  No wonder the response is COLD.