History and Festivals

Bangalore

There are several (conflicting) stories about how Bangalore got its name. According to the most popular one, King Ballala of the Hoysala dynasty lost his way in the jungle. He stumbled on an old woman, who took pity on him and offered him a humble meal of boiled beans. The king was so touched by her hospitality, that he named the place benda-kalu-ooru, which in Kannada, means the village of boiled beans. The anglicized version, as we all know it... is Bangalore!

Festivals

Almost every festival is celebrated in Bangalore, thanks to the large floating population from around the country. However, some festivals and days are unique to the South, and in particular, to Bangalore.

The Kannada Rajyothsava Day :
The Kannada Rajyothsava Day, on November 1, celebrates the formation of the Karnataka State on November 1, 1956. Citizens who have made a significant contribution to the state in various walks of life are honoured with the Rajyotsava Award on this day.

Sankranti/Pongal:
Pongal is a three-day harvest festival, celebrated widely in the south. Colleagues at work share bring the traditional staple of this Pongal (a sweet preparation of rice).

Ugadi:
Ugadi, or the Kannadiga new year, is celebrated in April, across Karnataka. It's considered the most auspicious time to start new ventures. The festival dinner begins with jaggery and neem leaves, which are symbolic of joy and sorrow woven into life. Puliogure and Holige are special dishes prepared just for this occasion.

History Revisted

The Bangalore Fort (near K.R. Market) was built by Kempe Gowda and expanded by Tippu Sultan.

Within its walls is the well preserved 16th century Ganapathi Temple.

The Bangalore Palace (the property extends from Jayamahal to Mekhri Circle) was built by a Wodeyar king in 1887 on 400 acres of space.

Inspired by the Windsor castle, this palace was built in the Tudor style, complete with Gothic windows, foiled windows, battlements and turrets.

It's open to the public for a fee.

Religious places of interest...

ISKCON - Situated on Chord Road, it is a well-maintained, beautiful temple and a must see!

Bull Temple - Built by Kempe Gowda, the Bull Temple at Basavanagudi houses the magnificent stone statue of the sacred bull, Nandi.

Dharmaraja Temple - Located at Nazarethpet in the suburbs of Bangalore, this temple is the starting point of the annual Karaga procession. The revered idols of this temple are the Shri Dharmaraja Swamy, hero of the Mahabharata and Lord Krishna.

Dargah Hazarath Tawakkal Mastan - This Muslim shrine, located in Cottonpet, is also associated with the Hindu Karaga festival.

Jumma Masjid - The Jumma Masjid is probably the oldest mosque in the city. Located in the busy K.R. Market area, it has tall ornamented granite pillars, adorning the elevated prayer hall.

St. Mary's Church - The church is situated near the Shivaji Nagar Bus Terminal. St. Mary's Feast, celebrated every September, attracts people of all faiths.

Getting Started!!!

From pensioner's paradise, to the pub capital of India, Bangalore has transitioned to a hip happening place, where you can sample cuisine from around the world and be privy to new lifestyle trends.
There's lots to do around Bangalore, whether it's hanging out at one of the new malls, shopping, catching a play, visiting your nearest multiplex, eating out, or pubbing!
Here are a few essential links and info to get you started!