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.