why bangalore

Bangalore has become home. It’s been almost two years since I moved to this city, and no other place has felt this fitting to me. My day starts at 6:30 AM to a chilly breeze coming through my window, birds chirping as the sun begins to peek through the clouds. I put on my running shoes, plug in my earphones, and head out to the tree-lined streets of Indiranagar, exchanging smiles with familiar faces along my running route. Post-run, I often find myself at a nearby dosa joint, grabbing a filter coffee and masala dosa while chatting with other early birds who’ve just finished their morning runs. On some days, I take out my motorbike instead, feeling the cool wind through the gaps of my clothes as I ride to the gym.

My blood is flowing with endorphins and serotonin before I even sit down to work. Speaking of work, I’m constantly inspired by how passionate people are about their craft here. This enthusiasm and ambition feels unique to Bangalore. Walk into any coffee shop on a weekend, and you’ll see people immersed with their drawing pads, notebooks, and laptops. You’ll witness groups brainstorming ideas and discussing projects with genuine excitement and zero judgment. I feel incredibly grateful to be surrounded by this flow of energy and positivity. I also never have to justify myself when I say I’m turning in early on a Friday night because of a Saturday morning run, or when I skip Sunday plans to work on my personal projects or attend any frequently occurring hackathons. There’s no need for explanations because most people around me share similar priorities and they get it. I can truly be myself here.

I was born and brought up in Delhi, surrounded by Delhi culture, language, and people. Most of my family and childhood friends are there, and it always feels comfortable whenever I go back to visit. Back home, I can stay in my bed, not caring about chores, not worrying about money, having my closest of friends just a phone call and a short drive away. Despite all of this, I feel more energized and excited about my life here in Bangalore. There is so much to do, so much to explore, and I feel like I’m just scratching the surface of what’s possible. The city has some of the brightest minds in my domain, and I deeply believe in the principle that “you become the average of the 5 people you spend the most time with.” Surrounded by such people, I find myself learning something new every day. My goal here is to increase the surface area for luck and serendipity around me, and this place feels like the perfect catalyst for this.

The city radiates life and energy. During afternoon walks, I see people truly living as they are socializing over coffee, trying out new sports like climbing and pickleball, taking ice baths, or joining community runs. Everyone seems to be crafting their own adventure, pursuing their passions without hesitation. This vibrant, active lifestyle is exactly what I want to be surrounded by. I also do not take for granted the privilege of experiencing this life, and I’m deeply grateful for it. I’m extremely lucky to have such people around me who make things exciting and fun, and for finding a city that aligns so perfectly with my way of life.

I know that eventually I will have to move back home to support my family, but while I’m young and have a few years of energy left, I want to channel it in the best way possible. And that is by being in Bangalore.