Bengaluru

Bangalore, officially known as Bengaluru, stands as the capital and largest city of Karnataka, a southern Indian state. Positioned strategically on the Deccan Plateau, this bustling metropolis boasts a population exceeding 8 million within its city limits, while its metropolitan area encompasses approximately 15 million inhabitants. This demographic strength propels Bangalore to the forefront of India’s urban landscape, securing its position as the nation’s third most populous city and fourth most populous urban agglomeration. The city’s significance extends beyond its immediate region, as it holds the distinction of being the most populous city and largest urban agglomeration in South India. On a global scale, Bangalore’s urban expanse places it as the 27th largest city worldwide, underscoring its international relevance.

The geographical setting of Bangalore contributes significantly to its allure and livability. Perched at an elevation surpassing 900 meters (3,000 feet) above sea level, the city enjoys the unique status of being the highest elevated major city in India. This elevated position bestows upon Bangalore a climate that remains pleasant throughout the year, a characteristic that sets it apart from many of its counterparts in the subcontinent. The city’s commitment to maintaining green spaces and parks has earned it the well-deserved moniker of India’s “Garden City”, a title that not only reflects its aesthetic appeal but also speaks to the quality of life it offers its residents.

The historical tapestry of Bangalore is rich and diverse, with its origins traceable to around 890 CE, as evidenced by an ancient Kannada stone inscription discovered at the Nageshwara Temple in Begur, an area now encompassed by the modern city. This archaeological find provides a tangible link to the city’s distant past, offering insights into its cultural and linguistic heritage. However, the foundation of what is recognized as modern Bangalore is attributed to Kempé Gowdā, a feudal ruler under the Vijayanagara Empire. In 1537, Gowdā established a mud fort that would become the nucleus around which the city would grow. The oldest areas of Bangalore, known as pétés, still exist today, serving as living testaments to the city’s enduring legacy.

The political landscape of Bangalore underwent significant transformations following the decline of the Vijayanagara Empire. Kempe Gowda III‘s brief period of independence was curtailed in 1638 when a formidable army from the Adil Shahi dynasty of Bijapur defeated him, bringing Bangalore under the control of Shahaji Bhonsle as a jagir (a form of land grant). This change in governance marked the beginning of a period where Bangalore would serve as a capital, albeit under different rulers. The city’s strategic importance was further underscored when it came under Mughal control, only to be subsequently sold to Maharaja Devaraja Wodeyar II of the Kingdom of Mysore, integrating it into one of South India’s most significant princely states.

The ascension of Haider Ali to power in Mysore brought about another shift in Bangalore’s administration, placing it under his direct control. This period was relatively short-lived, as the British East India Company‘s victory in the Fourth Anglo-Mysore War in 1799 resulted in the capture of Bangalore. In a strategic move, the British returned administrative control of the city and the kingdom to Maharaja Krishnaraja Wadiyar III, albeit under conditions that favored British interests. This period saw the development of the old city under the patronage of the maharaja, reflecting a blend of traditional governance and modernizing influences.

A pivotal moment in Bangalore’s urban development came in 1809 when the British decided to relocate their cantonment to an area outside the old city. This move catalyzed the growth of a new town around the cantonment, effectively creating two distinct urban settlements within close proximity. The coexistence of these two entities—the traditional town and the British cantonment—would continue until 1949, three years after India gained independence, when they were finally merged into a single urban center. This unification marked the beginning of Bangalore’s transformation into the modern metropolis it is today.

The post-independence era ushered in a new chapter for Bangalore. In 1947, as India shed its colonial shackles, Bangalore was designated as the capital of Mysore State. The city retained this status through subsequent political reorganizations, including the enlargement and unification of the state in 1956 and its renaming to Karnataka in 1973. These changes solidified Bangalore’s position as the administrative and economic heart of the region. In a nod to its cultural roots and linguistic heritage, the city’s Kannada name, Bengalūru, was officially adopted in 2006, replacing the anglicized “Bangalore” in government usage and reflecting a broader trend of reclaiming indigenous identities across India.

Bangalore’s trajectory in the latter half of the 20th century and into the 21st has been nothing short of remarkable. The city has emerged as one of the fastest-growing major metropolises globally, its rapid expansion driven by a confluence of factors that have positioned it at the forefront of India’s economic renaissance. Recent assessments of the metro economy of Bangalore’s urban area have consistently ranked it among the most productive in India, a testament to its economic vitality and the dynamism of its workforce.

At the heart of Bangalore’s economic success lies its transformation into a hub for high-technology-based heavy manufacturing. The city has become a magnet for multinational technology corporations, many of which have chosen to establish their headquarters or significant operations within its bounds. This influx of global tech giants has not only bolstered the local economy but has also fostered an ecosystem of innovation and entrepreneurship that continues to attract talent from across India and beyond.

Bangalore’s reputation as the “Silicon Valley of India” is well-earned and multifaceted. The city stands as the nation’s leading software exporter, a position it has held for decades, thanks to its robust IT industry and supportive infrastructure. Moreover, Bangalore has evolved into a major semiconductor hub, playing a crucial role in the global supply chain for electronic components. This dual strength in software and hardware has cemented Bangalore’s position as a comprehensive technology center, capable of supporting the full spectrum of digital innovation.

The city’s technological prowess is underpinned by its strong educational and research foundations. Bangalore is home to numerous top-tier engineering and research institutions, which not only produce a steady stream of highly skilled graduates but also contribute to cutting-edge research and development across various fields. This synergy between academia and industry has created a self-reinforcing cycle of innovation and growth, further enhancing Bangalore’s appeal to both domestic and international investors.

Beyond its civilian technological achievements, Bangalore plays a strategic role in India’s aerospace and defense sectors. The city hosts several state-owned organizations dedicated to these critical areas, leveraging its pool of technical expertise and research capabilities to advance India’s strategic interests. This concentration of aerospace and defense entities not only contributes to national security but also drives technological innovation with potential civilian applications.

Bangalore’s development has not been confined to the realms of technology and industry. The city has also emerged as one of India’s premier sporting hubs, boasting numerous notable sporting arenas that host events of national and international significance. This aspect of Bangalore’s identity adds another layer to its appeal, contributing to its quality of life and attracting sports enthusiasts and professionals alike.

The rapid growth and diversification of Bangalore’s economy have necessitated significant investments in infrastructure, particularly in transportation. The city is served by the Kempegowda International Airport, located in Devanahalli, approximately 40 kilometers from the city center. Opened in 2008, this modern facility has quickly become one of India’s busiest airports, ranking third in terms of passenger and airplane traffic, behind only Delhi and Mumbai. The airport’s development and expansion mirror Bangalore’s own growth trajectory, facilitating its connections to the global economy.