Bengaluru
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| Bengaluru | |
|---|---|
 | |
| Name | Bengaluru |
| Settlement type | Metropolis |
| Coordinates | 12, 58, 44, N... |
| Subdivision type | Country |
| Subdivision name | India |
| Subdivision type1 | State |
| Subdivision name1 | Karnataka |
| Subdivision type2 | District |
| Subdivision name2 | Bengaluru Urban |
| Established title | Founded |
| Established date | c. 1537 |
| Founder | Kempe Gowda I |
| Government type | Municipal corporation |
| Governing body | Bruhat Bengaluru Mahanagara Palike |
| Area total km2 | 741 |
| Elevation m | 920 |
| Population total | 8,443,675 |
| Population as of | 2011 |
| Population density km2 | auto |
| Population metro | 12,327,000 |
| Population metro footnotes | (2023) |
| Demographics type1 | Languages |
| Demographics1 title1 | Official |
| Demographics1 info1 | Kannada |
| Timezone1 | IST |
| Utc offset1 | +5:30 |
| Postal code type | PIN |
| Postal code | 560 xxx |
| Area code type | Telephone code |
| Area code | +91-(0)80 |
| Registration plate | KA-01, KA-02, KA-03, KA-04, KA-05, KA-41, KA-50, KA-51, KA-53 |
| Website | bbmp.gov.in |
Bengaluru. As the capital of the Indian state of Karnataka, it stands as a major economic and cultural hub in South India. Founded in the 16th century by Kempe Gowda I, a feudatory ruler under the Vijayanagara Empire, the city has evolved from a fortified town into a sprawling Metropolis. Renowned globally as the "Silicon Valley of India", it is the nation's leading exporter of IT services and a premier center for Biotechnology and Aerospace research.
History
The region's early history is evidenced by Megalithic monuments found near areas like Jalahalli and Hebbal. The city's modern foundation is attributed to Kempe Gowda I, who built a mud fort in c. 1537. Control later passed to the Kingdom of Mysore, under rulers like Chikka Devaraja and the famed Hyder Ali, whose son Tipu Sultan fiercely defended it during the Anglo-Mysore Wars. Following Tipu Sultan's defeat in the Fourth Anglo-Mysore War, the city came under the administration of the British Raj, becoming the capital of the Princely State of Mysore. The British established a large Cantonment south of the old city, a division that influenced its urban layout. Post-Indian independence, it became the capital of the reorganized Mysore State in 1956, which was later renamed Karnataka.
Geography and climate
Situated on the Deccan Plateau at an average elevation of 920 metres, it lies within the South Interior Karnataka region. The city's topography is generally flat, interspersed with minor ridges and valleys. Key water bodies include the Arkavathi River and the man-made Ulsoor Lake and Sankey Tank. It experiences a Tropical savanna climate with distinct wet and dry seasons, moderated by its elevation. The primary rainy season arrives with the Southwest monsoon, while occasional showers come from the Northeast monsoon. Pre-monsoon thunderstorms in April and May, known locally as "Mango showers", provide temporary relief from the heat.
Demographics
With a population exceeding eight million within its administrative limits, it is India's third-most populous city. The 2011 Census of India recorded a literacy rate of over 88%. Kannada is the official and most widely spoken language, serving as a key marker of regional identity. Significant linguistic minorities include speakers of Tamil, Telugu, Hindi, and Urdu, reflecting its history as a cosmopolitan center. The city is religiously diverse, with major faiths including Hinduism, Islam, Christianity, and Jainism.
Economy
It is the economic powerhouse of Karnataka and a primary driver of India's IT exports, hosting major multinational corporations like Infosys, Wipro, and the headquarters of Tata Consultancy Services. The city's Electronics City and Manyata Tech Park are iconic technology hubs. Beyond IT, it is a national leader in Biotechnology, anchored by institutions like Biocon and the research cluster Genome Valley. The presence of Hindustan Aeronautics Limited, Indian Space Research Organisation, and Defence Research and Development Organisation underscores its strength in Aerospace and defense manufacturing. The city also has a vibrant startup ecosystem and a significant financial services sector.
Culture
The city's cultural landscape blends traditional Kannada heritage with a modern, cosmopolitan ethos. It is a major center for Carnatic music, hosting renowned festivals like the Bangalore Karaga and the Bengaluru Habba. The Rangashankara theatre is a prominent venue for performing arts. Culinary offerings range from local specialties like Bisi bele bath and Masala dosa to diverse international cuisines. Landmarks such as the Bangalore Palace, Tipu Sultan's Summer Palace, and the Bull Temple reflect its historical layers, while institutions like the National Gallery of Modern Art and the Indian Institute of Science contribute to its intellectual life.
Infrastructure
The city is served by the Kempegowda International Airport, one of India's busiest. Its public transportation includes the expanding Namma Metro rail network and a vast fleet of Bangalore Metropolitan Transport Corporation buses. The city faces significant challenges with traffic congestion, prompting initiatives like the Bengaluru Suburban Rail project. Water supply is primarily sourced from the Cauvery River, with distribution managed by the Bangalore Water Supply and Sewerage Board. It is a major educational hub, home to premier institutions like the Indian Institute of Science, the Indian Institute of Management Bangalore, and the National Law School of India University. Healthcare infrastructure is robust, with leading hospitals such as the Narayana Health and Manipal Hospitals networks.