Bangalore is the capital of Karnataka and is known as the ‘Garden City of India’ apart from being an IT hub, for which it has earned the nickname ‘Silicon Valley of India’. The name is an anglicised version of Bengaluru. A 9th century rock inscription described it as ‘Bengaval-uru’ or the City of Guards.
Historical Background
The area of Bangalore saw many different South Indian rulers starting with the Cholas; then came the Hoysalas, Kempe Gowda (Vijaynagar Empire), Shahji Bhonsle, and Wodeyars. After his death in 1759, Hyder Ali of Mysore declared himself the ruler of Bangalore; he was succeeded by his son Tipu Sultan.
In 1791, in the 3rd Anglo-Mysore War, Lord Cornwallis captured the Bangalore Fort and handed the city back to the Wodeyars.
Bangalore was one of the first Indian cities to be electrified via hydroelectric power. In 1927 several parks and public buildings were constructed to improve the city.
Bangalore is famous as:
Educational hub:
Bangalore is home to numerous professional colleges, and this is why the city has a high floating population. In addition it is also home to prominent establishments like Indian Institute of Science, National Law School, National Institute of Fashion Technology, Indian Institute of Management, Indian Institute of Technology and National Institute of Mental Health and Neuro Sciences.
IT and commerce hub
It is one of India’s major economic centres, marked by export, wealthy individuals and GDP.
Headquarters of many public sector undertakings like BHEL, HAL, BEL, HMT and BEML are situated in this city. The IT companies in Bangalore contribute a third of India’s IT exports; major Indian software firms like Wipro and Infosys are located here.
Bangalore silk Sarees and dress materials are famous throughout India.
Cultural Centre
Theatre is a flourishing art form in Bangalore and there are several theatres all over the city. Classical music and dance are well patronised by the citizens of this cosmopolitan and vibrant city. Several rock concerts by renowned international artists like Bryan Adams, Enrique Igleisas, etc. have also been held here.
Garden city
Visitors to Bangalore are amazed at the greenery that is found everywhere in the city. Apart from the numerous parks and gardens, one can see trees and shrubs lining the roads.
Bangalore’s Culture
Bangloreans are fond of dance, music, and a glass of beer. After all, it is the home of United Breweries’ Kingfisher Beer. Pubs and nightclubs are extremely popular here.
They are also passionate about movies and there are an astonishing number of movie halls and multiplexes to be found here, and movie stars are hero-worshipped.
A typical Bangalore eatery, called a Darshini, offers lip-smacking food at unbelievable prices; the catch: no seats, standing room only! Bangalore coffee is famed for its aroma and thickness.
Current Scenario
An ancient place with history behind it, Bangalore is today a bustling, industrialized city. It offers innumerable educational and employment opportunities.
It has a booming real estate market, and construction of tall apartment buildings is on the rise.
The Government is taking steps to improve and expand the city’s infrastructure as the city grows; support is also offered to private sector companies.
Climate and Best Time to Visit
Due to its moderate climate Bangalore can be visited throughout the year.
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