chitra

Continuing with my virtual tour of Bangalore, this post will be for history buffs. Being a Bangalorean, I am often asked for a city tour. The landmarks in Bangalore have some interesting stories and facts to them, some of which, I would like to share with you.

Lal Bagh – When Bangalore came under Haider Ali’s purview in 1758, he set out to beautify the city by laying foundation to one of the most well-known landmarks – the Lal Bagh (the ‘Red Garden’). The work began in 1760 and was expanded by both Tippu Sultan and the British in later years. The plants were procured from Kabul, Turkey and Mauritius. Thanks to all their efforts, we now have about 200 acres of rich, well-manicured gardens in the heart of the city. Other than the rejuvenating walk or a jog, you can visit the Glass House and the aquarium. And don’t miss the stroll by the lake and a view of Bangalore from the hill-top.

Bull Temple – This is one of my favorite places in Bangalore. I know little about when this temple was built but the story is what fascinates me. It is believed that this area was once covered with groundnut fields. The farmers were often troubled by this raging bull that would destroy their crop. On one such occasion, the farmers decided to chase the bull. They were relieved that their crop was now safe only to find out the next morning that the raging bull had turned in to stone atop a hillock nearby the fields. They realized then that the raging animal was not just another ordinary bull but it was the Almighty in disguise. Perhaps to test the people of their devotion to him. That’s when they decided to build this temple and offer a part of their crop in the annual kadlekai parshe (groundnut fair) to appease the God. The Kadlekai parshe still happens in the month of December every year. Do take time out to visit the fair to get a flavor of the extravaganza.

Vidhana Soudha – The seat of power that houses the legislative chambers of the Government of Karnataka, was built in 1956. The construction was supervised by Chief Engineer, B R Manickam of the Public Works Department during the leadership of Kengal Hanumanthaiah. It also houses the legislature library, the banquet hall, state archives and the ministerial chambers and offices. It measures 700 feet north-south and 350 east-west. It has 2 inner open quadrangles measuring 250 by 230 feet, making it India’s largest legislature cum office complex.

Attara Kutcheri – The State High Court opposite the Vidhana Soudha is a magnificent piece of architecture built in 1868. Built by Tippu Sultan in Victorian style, accommodated the government departments during his reign.

All this information has been sourced from two of my favorite books on Bangalore – Network City by James Heitzman and The Promise of the Metropolis by Janaki Nair. Do read them when you get a chance. And I should also thank my family for those reading sessions and endless number of stories about Bangalore.