Located in southern India, Bengaluru is one of the most important metropolitan cities in the country. Bengaluru is also known as the "Silicon Valley of India" because it is the hub of major technology companies and IT professionals. There are several ancient temples and cosmopolitan lifestyles that still live in Bengaluru today. Every year, the city's IT hubs show great transformation in the intermediate period of the major festivals, showcasing the growth of the city and technologies simultaneously. Not only does Bengaluru change in appearance with the bustling sowing of Christmas cross lights, but also during Diwali due to the colorful diyas that light up throughout the city. The spirit of Bengaluru's diverse population comes together through the festive redecoration, uniting them as a whole.
Similarly, during Diwali, Bengaluru, transforms into a golden painted city. The earthen lamp and marigold garland markets emanate from the streets. The smell of sweet-seeking laddoo and savory chakli fill the air. Not only does residential and local business build and utilize gorgeous lights, but also the local tech companies, business suites and offices as well. Moreover, oil lamps adorn buildings aiding in the festive feeling. Chase cards and store signs mixed sprinkle the sky with fireworks and twinkle in colors.
For all its glory, Dussehra in Mysore is world renowned, yet Bengaluru has its own elaborate story. The city comes alive with the telling of the Ramayana through dramatic renditions and the burning of Ravana's effigies in open areas like Lalbagh. Temples such as Dodda Ganesha and Bull Temple have lavish processions where the adorned idols are carried on chariots and cultural centers like Ravindra Kalakshetra feature classical concerts and dance recitals. Jasmine and dolls made from turmeric, as well as flower sellers, who shower the streets of Malleswaram, is a sight needed for Ayudha Puja, a festival in which tools and vehicles are worshipped, showcasing the blend between the city's life and its rich heritage.
Streets in the city of Bengaluru undergo extensive transformations during Ganesh Chaturthi as gigantic pandals shelter exquisitely designed statues sculptured out of various materials portraying Lord Ganesha. Basavanagudi and Shivaji Nagar are centers for creativity with varying cultures that range from preserving Nature to fighting for social equality. Clay idols along with natural colors dominating the street forms marks positive change with Bengaluru worshipping eco-friendly celebrations instead of the traditional plastered and painted idols. The adored god is bid goodbye during the immersion day when along with the drum beats and ululations a collective adored 'farewell' is chanted while he is placed in the lakes, transformed into a joyous farewell procession throughout Sankey Tank and Ulsoor Lake.
As December rolls around, Christmas spirit comes alive in Bengaluru. Festive lights and life size nativity scenes decorate MG Road and Commercial Street. Bakeries on Frazer Town serve warm wine cakes and plumb cakes, enticing passersby, while St. Mary's Basilica along with other churches have midnight mass and their the church's walls are decorated with warm lights. Malls such as Phoenix Marketcity incorporate local traditions by adding Santa's Grottoes alongside Snowfall simulations. Even the tech parks get into the Christmas spirit by hosting carol competitions showing off the city's multicultural workforce.
The vibrant celebrations of Eid are incorporated into the beautiful shores of Shivaji Nagar and Tannery Road. Kebabs and Haleem are served at street stalls, while Jamia Masjid and surrounding mosques are decorated with strings of lanterns and crescent moons. Hindu families and relatives come together with their Muslim friends to raise a toast to the day, celebrating the harmony of the city while sewing traditional dresses. Charity acts such as community iftars showcase the spirit of unity in the city even more.
The medieval Karaga Festival of the Draupadi cult has been celebrated for centuries and is one of a kind. The 11-night celebration concludes with a floral pyramid representing goddess Shakti being paraded while the thousands of believers that follow perform fire-walking, folk dancing, and other rituals that honor ancient city myths. This takes place after a priest leads a midnight procession from the Dharmarayaswamy Temple.
The festive spirit of Bengaluru extends beyond singular events. Christian's enjoy Ganesha processions while Muslims celebrate by lighting lamps during Diwali. Hindus actively partake in Christmas celebrations. Every culture comes together to create pop-up markets and stages that cultivate unity and diversity.
For the people of Bengaluru, the essence of the city shines brightest when the thousands of candles and Diwali decorations come out for these grand events. Rather than shining as a tech hub, the city showcases how blended with modernity lies rich ancient history and a celebration of togetherness. As the spirit of festivities fade, the harmony and togetherness engraved within the city remain.