In a momentous milestone for Bengaluru, the city has earned its place in the esteemed World Cities Culture Forum (WCCF). Founded in 2012 by Justine Simons OBE, London’s Deputy Mayor for Culture & the Creative Industries, the WCCF is a global network of cities that collaborate, share research and intelligence, and explore the role of culture in shaping future prosperity. With its inclusion, Bengaluru becomes the first Indian city to join this prestigious forum, rubbing shoulders with cultural powerhouses like New York, London, Paris, Tokyo, and Dubai. This recognition not only highlights Bengaluru’s growing cultural significance but also emphasizes the vital role of culture in shaping the identity of a world city.
Bengaluru: From Megacity to Cultural Hub
Bengaluru, formerly known as Bangalore, is a megacity and the capital of the Southern state of Karnataka, India. Over the years, it has undergone a remarkable transformation from a quaint town to a bustling metropolis. Its population has grown exponentially from one million in 1950 to over 16 million in 2023. Bengaluru’s meteoric rise can be attributed to its position as the nation’s leading information technology exporter, earning it the nickname “Silicon Valley of India.” However, beyond its technological prowess, the city boasts a rich tapestry of history, art, and culture that has now caught the attention of the global community through the WCCF.
Cultural Heritage and Museums
Bengaluru proudly houses over 30 government and private museums that exhibit the city’s heritage and cultural treasures. These museums offer a glimpse into Bengaluru’s past and showcase its diverse artistic and historical legacy. From ancient artifacts to contemporary art, these institutions play a crucial role in preserving and promoting Bengaluru’s cultural heritage.
In a significant development for the city’s cultural landscape, South India’s first major private art museum, the Museum of Art and Photography (MAP), opened its doors in February 2023. This milestone establishment not only adds to the city’s cultural infrastructure but also positions Bengaluru as a hub for the arts, attracting artists, collectors, and enthusiasts from across the country and the world.
Music and the Harmonious Melting Pot
One of Bengaluru’s unique distinctions lies in its harmonious coexistence of both North Indian (Hindustani) and South Indian (Carnatic) classical music traditions. This rare phenomenon showcases the city’s inclusivity and openness to diverse cultural influences. The thriving music scene in Bengaluru attracts renowned musicians and enthusiasts, fostering a vibrant community that cherishes and preserves these age-old musical traditions.
Green Spaces: Nurturing Nature and Culture
Known as the “Garden City of India,” Bengaluru takes pride in its lush green spaces that serve as a respite from the hustle and bustle of urban life. Two nationally recognized botanical gardens, Lal Bagh and Cubbon Park, act as green lungs for the city, offering citizens and visitors alike a chance to connect with nature and unwind amidst verdant landscapes. These green oases also serve as cultural spaces for art exhibitions, music concerts, and various cultural events, blending nature and culture harmoniously.
Cultural Exchange and Global Engagement
Becoming part of the World Cities Culture Forum opens up exciting avenues for Bengaluru to engage in cultural exchange with cities around the world. The network provides opportunities for collaboration, knowledge-sharing, and best practices in the realm of culture and creativity. As Bengaluru learns from its global counterparts, it can also contribute its unique cultural perspectives to enrich the global discourse on the role of culture in shaping societies and driving progress.
The World Cities Culture Summit: A Platform for Cultural Diplomacy
An integral part of the World Cities Culture Forum is the World Cities Culture Summit, hosted on a rotating basis by city partners. This summit serves as an unprecedented gathering of city leaders, policymakers, and cultural experts who come together to share ideas, knowledge, and insights about culture’s role in shaping public policy within the context of a world city. For Bengaluru, this presents a unique opportunity to showcase its cultural achievements, learn from the experiences of other cities, and strengthen its cultural diplomacy on the global stage.