Share
02-12-2024

Bengaluru: India's Silicon Valley - A Comprehensive Guide 2024

By JAIN College
Bengaluru: From Historical Roots in 600 CE to Silicon Valley in 2024
Listen to this blog
Table of Content

History of Bengaluru: A Historical Timeline

6th Century CE

Earliest Regional Reference

Earliest known reference to the region in a stone inscription found in Begur.

9th Century

City of Guards

The name 'Bengaval-uru' appears, meaning 'city of guards' in old Kannada.

12th Century

Town of Boiled Beans

Evolution to 'Benda-Kalu-ooru,' or 'town of boiled beans,' tied to a popular legend about a kind king.

1537

City Establishment

Kempe Gowda I, a feudal ruler under the Vijayanagara Empire, establishes Bengaluru by constructing a mud fort and market areas.

1638

Maratha Capture

Shahaji Bhonsle, father of Maratha ruler Shivaji, captures the city.

1687

Mughal Control

Mughal forces under Aurangzeb's command take control of Bengaluru.

1690

Wodeyar Acquisition

The city is sold to the Wodeyars of Mysore.

1759

Hyder Ali's Jagir

Hyder Ali receives Bengaluru as a jagir (feudal land grant) from the Wodeyars.

1761

Stone Fort Construction

The original mud fort is reconstructed in stone under Hyder Ali's rule.

1791

British Conquest

Lord Cornwallis captures Bengaluru during the Third Anglo-Mysore War.

1799

British Control

Bengaluru comes under British control after the fall of Tipu Sultan.

1831-1881

Administrative Center

The city serves as the administrative center for the British Commissioners in southern India.

1864

First Railway Connection

The first railway line in South India connects Bengaluru to Madras (Chennai).

1902

First Electric City

Hydroelectric power from Shivanasamudra Falls makes Bengaluru the first Asian city with electric street lights.

1905

Scientific Research Hub

Indian Institute of Science (IISc) is established, marking Bengaluru's emergence as a center for scientific research.

1940

Aerospace Industry Begins

Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) is founded, initiating Bengaluru's aerospace industry.

1947

Post-Independence Capital

Post-independence, Bengaluru becomes the capital of Mysore State.

1954

Vidhana Soudha Completion

Completion of Vidhana Soudha, an iconic symbol of state legislature and governance.

1956

State Reorganization

Bengaluru becomes part of the newly formed Mysore State under the States Reorganisation Act.

1964

Space Research Headquarters

Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) establishes its headquarters in the city.

1973

State Renaming

Mysore State is renamed Karnataka, with Bengaluru continuing as its capital.

1984

Tech Industry Begins

Texas Instruments becomes the first multinational tech company to set up in Bengaluru, marking the beginning of the IT boom.

1991

Economic Liberalization

Economic liberalization in India accelerates Bengaluru's growth as an IT hub.

2000

Global Tech Presence

Infosys becomes the first Indian company listed on NASDAQ, showcasing Bengaluru's global tech presence.

2006

Name Reclaimed

Official adoption of 'Bengaluru' as the city's name, replacing the anglicized 'Bangalore'.

2011

Metro Inauguration

Namma Metro begins operations, modernizing the city's public transport system.

2022

Startup Capital

Bengaluru hosts India's largest tech startup conference, affirming its status as the 'Startup Capital of India'.

Ancient Origins and Founding

1537 is where the history of Bengaluru begins, as Seshadri Iyer irrevocably changes the course of this city in the 1800s. Under the aegis of Vijayanagara Empire in the 16th century, Bhadru Kempe Gowda I homeland erected a mud fort that would eventually give rise to present-day Bengaluru. People may feel the Bengaluru history in this region in little more time, as the earlier settlement of people in this region could be traced back to around 4000 BC as evidenced by archaeological excavations. Popular beliefs suggest that the meaning of the city’s name is derived from the words ‘Bendakaluru’ which literally translates as ‘village of boiled beans’ hence the name.

Colonial Era and British Influence

Bengaluru is a strategic location, and the British established a cantonment within it in 1809. During this time, the city underwent radical sweeping changes in its physical development. It was irresistible for the British not to bring a barrage of changes to architectural designs, schools, and highways. The Cantonment and the old city developed separately giving the city a remarkable dual character that has endured to the present times.

Post-Independence Growth

With independence to India in the year nineteen forty seven, the city of Bangalore turned out to be the capital of Karnataka state and geared towards becoming the silicon valley of India. Establishment of public sector undertakings such as Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) in the late 1940’s heralded the beginning of the city’s industrialization.

Geography and Climate

Topographical Features

Situated on the Deccan Plateau at an elevation of about 920 metres above sea level, Bengaluru enjoys a unique geographical position. The city's terrain is generally flat, though punctuated by a ridge in the middle that runs from north to south. This elevated location contributes significantly to its pleasant climate and has earned it the moniker 'Garden City of India'.

Weather Patterns Throughout the Year

One of Bengaluru's biggest attractions is its year-round temperate climate. The city experiences three distinct seasons:

  • Summer (March to May): Temperatures range from 21°C to 34°C
  • Monsoon (June to September): Bringing moderate rainfall and cooler temperatures
  • Winter (October to February): Mild and pleasant, with temperatures between 15°C and 25°C

Cultural Heritage and Architecture

Traditional Landmarks

Temples and Religious Sites

The temples in Bengaluru stands as great assets of cultural richness. Bull Temple which is built in 16 Century boasts of a large single stone statue of Nandi Bull. The ISKCON temple which is comparatively new has also gained the status of a religious center complete with its necessary facilities promoting Indian architecture.

Historical Palaces and Forts

The Bangalore Palace built in 1887 bears testimony to the erstwhile imperial nature of the City. It is modelled on the Windsor Castle in England, and is in the style of the Tudors and has battlemented towers, dome-like arches and grass lawns. The Summer Palace of Tipu Sultan is a wooden marvel that reveals traces of the 'Tiger of Mysore'.

Modern Architectural Marvels

Mantri Square became a family entertainment complex shattering the glass structures and changing the skyline of the city. UB City and World Trade Center Bangalore are the two high-tech structures that reflect the changing face of the city for its growth as a high level technology center.

Technology Hub and Economic Powerhouse

Rise of the IT Sector

In effect, it coined the term Silicon Valley of India in the 1990s. The IT boom aided its transformation from a soothing land of rest for the retired to technological metropolis. Built over an expanse of 800 acres, Electronics City, which accommodates a multitude of MNC stands for this new digital age.

Startup Ecosystem

Bengaluru's vibrant startup ecosystem has earned it the title of 'Startup Capital of India'. The city hosts over 11,000 startups, ranging from e-commerce giants to innovative deep-tech companies. Incubators, accelerators, and co-working spaces dot the landscape, fostering innovation and entrepreneurship.

Educational Institutions

The city's intellectual capital is sustained by prestigious institutions like:

  • Indian Institute of Science (IISc)
  • Indian Institute of Management Bangalore (IIMB)
  • National Law School of India University

Lifestyle and Entertainment

Food Culture

A major thing that can be said of the city is that the culinary field is a perfect blend of the old with the new. From Masala Dosa to the local micro breweries that enables creation of artisanal beer and gourmet meals, the city has something for everyone. This feature called Darshini culture of stand alone eateries serving quick service south indian meals are very cheap and is found in Bengaluru alone.

Green Spaces and Parks

Bengaluru Urban and its city may be highly urbanized, however, it is not deficient of green spaces thanks to its parks and gardens . Visiting the Lalbagh botanical garden can be awe inspiring, as it is the biggest botanical garden in the country’s lush 240 acre premises, showcasing many species of tropical plants. Perhaps the most popular phrase that has been given to Cubbon Park is that of the lung space of the city.

Shopping Districts

Bengaluru presents a range of shopping activities from the traditional Krishna Rajendra Market to the contemporary Phoenix Marketcity. Brigade Road and particularly commercial street regularly features street shopping as well as UB city for the upper scale shopping.

Transportation and Infrastructure

Metro System

The Namma Metro, operational since 2011, has revolutionized public transport in Bengaluru. With three operational lines and several under construction, it provides a crucial alternative to road transport in this traffic-heavy city.

Road Network

The city's road infrastructure, while extensive, struggles to keep pace with rapid growth. Notable projects like the Outer Ring Road and elevated expressways have improved connectivity, but traffic congestion remains a significant challenge.

Challenges and Future Prospects

Bengaluru faces several challenges as it grows:

  1. Infrastructure strain
  2. Water scarcity
  3. Air pollution
  4. Urban sprawl

However, initiatives like smart city projects and sustainable development plans offer hope for addressing these issues.

Conclusion

Bengaluru's journey from a small town to a global tech hub is nothing short of remarkable. While facing typical challenges of rapid urbanisation, the city's resilient spirit, pleasant climate, and dynamic economy continue to attract people from across the world. As Bengaluru steps into the future, it strives to balance its rich heritage with modern aspirations, remaining a city of dreams for millions.

About the Author
Mekhala Joshi

JAIN College

JAIN PU College, a part of the renowned JGI Group, is committed to empowering students with quality education. Beyond academics, the college ensures its online content reflects the same standard of excellence. Every blog and article is meticulously vetted and proofread by subject matter experts to ensure accuracy, relevance, and clarity. From insightful educational topics to engaging discussions, JAIN PU College's content is crafted to inform, inspire, and add value to its readers, reflecting the institution's commitment to intellectual growth and innovation.

View all Blogs
Apply Now