I consider myself fortunate to be born and brought up in Bangalore. But the Bangalore of late 70s and 80s is no longer alive and has gone through a lot in the past few years.
The common issue faced by everyone in Bangalore is traffic. In those days, the roads were traffic free, there were no one-way roads and it was an absolute delight to drive. Now the scenario has changed. If one has to travel a distance of 15 km it is an absolute nightmare.
I still remember the prominence of Mekri Circle during my college days. Now, it is an entirely different scenario with flyovers all over. In the early 80s, JC Road was a two-way road and one could easily reach Basavanagudi in minutes but now one cannot imagine how long it would take for anyone to travel.
Similarly, in Hebbal, huge flyovers have come up whereas earlier it was nothing but barren land. It is strange how times have changed.
Unfortunately in the last 10 years, we have also lost many trees, thanks to road widening.
Also, earlier there was no apartment culture in Bangalore but now we can see high rises all over the city. Likewise, in Whitefield also there is a dramatic change in landscape. Earlier this suburb and surrounding areas were only for industries and farming. Now there is no concept of farming in the city.
Bannerghatta road and Kanakapura Road were considered as outskirts of the city. Now all these locations are an integral part of Bangalore.
Bangalore has always been known for its good eating joints. In Malleshwaram we have the famous Veena store which is known for its soft idlis and spicy chutney ; Janata Hotel known for its finger licking masala dosas in 8th Cross.
Then how can we forget the legendary MTR hotels which have served idlis and dosas which 'almost' taste like the ones made by our grandmothers.
Then, comes the Brahmins in Basavangudi for its typical South Indian breakfast, filter coffee and unlimited chutney.
Finally the Vidyarathi Bhavan in Gandhi Bazaar known for its famous masala dosas. Luckily these ancient tiffin houses still exist even though their fast and cooler 'cousins' have come up in the same area.
Public transport has played a significant role in Bangalorean's lives. The introduction of AC Volvo buses and Metro has given us hope as these public transports have reduced traffic considerably. Though this city has lost its historical charm in the process of becoming a cosmopolitan, it has not failed to impress
The reader is a resident of Yelechenahallli
Dislikes
* Filth on roads
* Bad roads
* Pollution
* Expensive housing
* People migration
Likes
* Climate
* Trees on roads
* Cosmopolitan culture
* BMTC Volvo AC Buses
* Shopping