Bengaluru
Bangalore, officially known as Bengaluru, is the capital of Karnataka state in southern India. Situated 3113 feet (949 meters) above sea level on an east-west ridge in the Karnataka Plateau, Bengaluru is a cultural meeting point for Kannada-, Telugu-, and Tamil-speaking peoples. With a population of over 12 million, it is the third most populous city in India and a megacity.
The name “Bangalore” is an anglicized version of the Kannada name “Bengalūru.” The earliest reference to “Bengalūru” is found in a ninth-century Western Ganga Dynasty stone inscription on a “vīra gallu” (hero stone) at Begur, which mentions a battle fought in 890 CE. The place was part of the Ganga Kingdom until 1004 and was known as “Bengaval-uru,” meaning “City of Guards” in Old Kannada.
Bengaluru consists of the closely built old town and several modern outlying areas laid out in a gridiron pattern, with many parks and wide streets. The city boasts over 1000 temples, 400 mosques, 100 churches, three Gurudwaras, two Buddhist viharas, and even a fire temple, making it a diverse city with various cultures and religions coexisting.
The city is home to a diverse population from all over the world. Bengaluru has many renowned schools and colleges that attract people from across the country. The emergence of a strong education system in the city encouraged the development of an information and communications technology (ICT) sector, making Bengaluru the Silicon Valley of India and propelling it as a global ICT center. Bengaluru is also known as the Science City of India.
Bangaloreans take pride in their city’s cultural diversity. Numerous events, art shows, and live performances attract visitors from different places. The Bengaluru International Film Festival showcases the best films from India and abroad. Additionally, the city’s vibrant live music and stand-up comedy scenes contribute to its rich cultural landscape.
Bengaluru is well known for its salubrious weather. The city is home to many people from all over the world, speaking different languages and enjoying a variety of foods. Whether you prefer fine dining or relaxing in a cozy café, Bengaluru has something for everyone. The city offers lavish restaurants, pubs, clubs, charming coffee houses, and authentic idli-dosa joints, catering to a variety of tastes. Bengaluru’s welcoming nature allows you to experience a wide range of cuisines from across the country.