No Big Disappointment: Understanding the Choice of Bengaluru as the Capital City
As an experienced SEOer from Google, it seems there were no significant expressions of disappointment when Bengaluru was chosen to be the capital of the Karnataka State. Instead, the shift reflects a historical and logical progression that mirrors the changing needs and dynamics of governance in the region.
The Historical Context: Even during the rule of the Wodeyars and the British, Bengaluru had been recognized as the administrative center. This is not dissimilar to the modern scenario where Gandhinagar serves as the seat of the Gandhinagar district in Gujarat, while Ahmedabad remains the cultural and industrial hub.
The Dual Role: Mysore (renamed as Mysuru) has historically served as the cultural capital, akin to how Mumbai holds a similar status for Maharashtra. Nonetheless, during the Wodeyar era and British rule, Bengaluru was the locus of administrative activities, including economic policies and industrialization.
Infrastructure and Development
The Administrative and Economic Infrastructure of Bengaluru during the Wodeyar and British periods was robust and well-developed. The Wodeyars connected Mysore and Bengaluru through railways, reflecting their strategic thinking in governance. Notably, Bengaluru had the honor of being the first city in India to receive electricity, thanks to the Hydro Electric Project at Shivanasamudra Falls. In 1905, Bengaluru was also the first to have electric streetlights, marking a significant milestone in urban development.
Educational and Cultural Milestones
The establishment of premier educational institutions like IISC and the University of Agricultural Sciences in Bengaluru underscored its importance as a center of learning and research. Similarly, the Kannada Sahitya Parishat, established in 1915, further cemented the city's role as a cultural hub by promoting the growth of Kannada. The cantonment area of Bengaluru, under British administration, was developed very well, facilitating its rapid growth.
Industrial and Administrative Expansion
The vast lands available in Bengaluru were conducive to setting up significant industries, such as HAL, NAL, BEL, BEL, and BEMl. This stands in contrast to Mysore, where industries were spread across various regions. During the 17th century, Bengaluru housed “Attara Kacheri,” a Hindustani word reflecting Mughal influence, which served as a secretariat for eighteen administrative departments. The presence of a secretariat and the High Court further solidified Bengaluru's position as the primary administrative hub.
The Assembly and Its Impact
The discussion on relocating the capital city to other parts of Karnataka, such as Davanagere, highlights the persistent debate over the optimal location for the state's administrative center. However, the construction of the Vidhana Soudha in 1952 decisively resolved the issue, ensuring Bengaluru's role as the capital would endure.
Public Perception and Satisfaction
It is important to note that the people from the old Mysore region did not face any significant challenges in accepting Bengaluru as the capital city. In fact, many are happy to see Bengaluru flourish, given the environmental concerns associated with rapid urbanization. The fear of environmental degradation and potential overburdening of the city's infrastructure have led people from areas like Mysuru, Mandya, Haasana, Shivamogga, and beyond to prefer the status quo rather than any other city in the northern part of Karnataka.
In conclusion, the choice of Bengaluru as the capital city was a natural evolution of governance needs, strategically supported by its infrastructure, industrial capabilities, and cultural significance. This change has brought about a harmonious acceptance among the people, making Bengaluru an integral part of the Karnataka State.