How Bengaluru Changed From Then to Now

There's not much comparison between Bengaluru today and the one of decades ago. In the modern times, when people visualize the city, they typically think about technological companies, startups, the metro trains, and heavy traffic, as well as cafés and shopping malls.

However, Bengaluru was not this way in the past. There was a time when the city was known more for its pleasant weather, beautiful gardens, quiet neighbourhoods, tree-lined roads and relaxed lifestyle. In just over 30 years, the city (now known as Bengaluru) has evolved from a quiet and peaceful place into one of the largest and most significant urban centres in India. 

The old Bengaluru however has not vanished altogether, as the interesting part is, the old welcome changed. It remains there – between the modern buildings, the busy roads, old markets, the traditional homes, and the historic neighbourhoods. 

1. The Garden City Then vs. Today:

The City Today The old times, Bengaluru was termed as the “Garden City of India.” The city was well renowned for its greenery, parks, large trees and pleasant environment. The green identity of places, such as Lalbagh and Cubbon Park, continues to be significant. But as the city grew, more roads, buildings and infrastructure were needed. Certain areas lost green space, whereas there was protection and maintenance of others. Bengaluru is an interesting place today. The view includes a large structure that looks like a building, likely a technology facility, and a large tree in the background on the other side.

2. From Pensioners' Paradise to IT Hub:

This is very much the largest shift that Bengal has witnessed. The city was popular as a place to live in the old days; in fact, it was dubbed “Pensioners' Paradise.” But then fast growth in the technology sector began. Companies started to establish business in the city, professionals started to find a foothold in the city and gradually Bengaluru became one of the largest technology hubs in India. The other areas like Electronic City, Whitefield, Outer Ring Road etc. turned into good job generators. Bengaluru suddenly stops being a place which people only visited. It grew into a city where people from all over India yearned to learn, as well as work and pursue their careers. Contemporary, you will be able to come across Indians from almost every part of India living and working here in Bengaluru.

3. Transportation: Buses to Metro:

Changes in transportation are significant. The primary modes of transportation in the city were buses, bicycles, autorickshaws and a limited number cars. In today's scenario, Bengaluru is much bigger in terms of providing public transport. For many people the Namma metro is an important mode of transport in their day to day lives. All of these are found on streets: Buses, metro trains, cabs, auto-rickshaws, bikes and private vehicles. However, as Bengaluru's population increases, so do some poignant memories: Traffic. It can take a lot longer today to make what was once a short journey. However, over time, the Metro is providing a new means of transportation to city residents.

4. Old Neighbourhoods vs. New Bengaluru:

In old Bengaluru, Basavanagudi, Chamarajpet, Jayanagar, and Malleswaram had traditional homes, local markets, temples and small shops, which played a vital role in the daily life of the people. Numerous neighbourhoods still have this feel. Alongside these, however, Bengal city has engrown gigantic apartment complexes, gated societies and modern residential complexes. It is sometimes just a few streets away to a traditional tiled roof house and a tall apartment building. It is one of the reasons that makes Bengaluru interesting. Old and new go side by side.

5. Local Markets To Shopping Malls:

Shopping has also undergone a transformation. Shoppers come to the traditional markets at Chickpet, Commercial Street, Avenue Road and KR Market. There are indeed huge malls and shops with international brands, restaurants, cinemas and entertainment facilities in modern-day "BNGLURU. Originally, it could have been a trip to a local market and haggling with the vendors. You can spend a whole afternoon in an air-conditioned mall today. However, there are still experiences both of these. At each choice you have one or the other according to your disposition.

6. Creating a Silicon Valley of India to a Startup City:

Now, Bengaluru is not just synonymous with big tech. It is today also one of the biggest start-up hubs in India. Youth entrepreneurs, engineers, designers, investors and Professionals are coming to Bengaluru to establish new businesses. Coworking spaces, startup events, communities of technology and innovation centres have become the new face of the city. Traditional businesses and institutions flourished in the old Bengal city of Bangalore. The coming together of the new Bengaluru is also synonymous with ideas, innovation and entrepreneurship.