An ode to Bangalore

A wish that I had nursed for a long time, as each time I crossed by it, I had a very strong urge to stop and capture the bubbling, bustling life there. Well, I am no photographer. I am more of an amateur in this field; they are just baby-captures, as I like to call my efforts. While the quiet serene landscapes soothe me, the energetic feel sends out a more positive vibe. And Malleshwaram is just that! It holds that old world charm of a South Indian locality! So start your tour on a full stomach; some lip smacking dosas and a cup of frothing hot filter coffee at the CTR, an old  little joint and then you are ready to take on the walk through the streets of Malleshwaram!The quaint little temples at every nook and corner of the roads, the stotras and mantras and chants filling up the air, the heady smell of the incense wafting all over, transport one to an era when religious customs and traditions formed a major part of life. And those practices still exist amidst a cosmopolitan life in this city. There seems to be a peaceful coexistence between the swanky, high end malls and the more homely, easy paced local bazaars. The continuous flow of traffic here added more to the lively feel of the locality. The chaos on the roads and the area had a 'lovable' feel to it. You must be wondering how chaos can be lovable!! Well, that's how I felt about the place. The gigantic trees, mainly the Rain trees spread out their branches all across forming pretty canopies.They seem to be spreading out their arms, trying to embrace the boundless sky. I wonder why they are called Rain trees; they resemble huge umbrellas! And these days, these trees are in  full bloom, pale pink brush like flowers adorning them. While walking, my friends and I came across all kinds of interesting things like huge mounds in red and yellow, piles of pretty coloured garlands in tiny little stalls, boutiques tucked away in the by lanes. 

Today, we shall take a virtual tour of Malleshwaram. The photographs may not be of ultimate quality but I feel that they could capture the spirit of the place and of life. Take a trip to enjoy the old world charm. As for me, I loved this rustic aura and the distinct character about the place; a much welcome break from the glitz of our mall culture. So here you go.........

That is CTR for you!

CTR draws a huge crowd for its crispy crunchy dosas and aromatic filter coffee and I was no exception!

the hustle and bustle of a busy day...........

And in a quiet part of the locality you are bound to find some treasures, just like I did !

a couple of my picks.........

Some great ideas for my home :-)

pretty brass made for a gorgeous picture........

the essentials of an Indian pooja............

a busy part of the locality, teeming with life.......

some more colours! Haldi and kumkum.............

Colours and flowers all around me...........

And what are these? Saw them for the first time in my life!

the betel nut flowers..........

the banana barks on sale.......a much required pooja item..........

Piles of betel leaves arranged............

a roadside temple..........one comes across many of its kind .......