#570
Karnataka Rajyotsava day (Today 1st Nov every year) always brings a wave of reflection. As someone who’s spent the past 28 years calling this vibrant state home, I feel it’s the perfect day to express my gratitude for the life we’ve built here. When I first set foot in Bangalore in June 1996, moving from Ankleshwar’s industrial hum to AstraZeneca’s promising role, I didn’t know how pivotal this choice would be for me and my family.
Settling in Bangalore was never a mere relocation; it was a deliberate choice, (To be close to parents as well as give the best of edcution for Children) one that shaped our family’s trajectory. Tamil Nadu and Andhra Pradesh felt culturally misaligned for us, but Karnataka was different. Bangalore, with its blend of tradition and modernity, proved an ideal home. Here, we found the intellectual rigour and openness we sought. And over these years, Bangalore and Mangalore (where I spent a brief stint from 1997 to 1999 with BASF India,) transformed from unfamiliar cities to cherished spaces.
Reflecting on this journey, several milestones stand out. First, the excellent educational landscape here nurtured our children, providing them with the tools to excel professionally and fulfil a shared dream—settling in the USA. It’s a source of pride, not just as a father but as someone who values learning. Bangalore's healthcare system was another blessing, extending my parents’ lives and ensuring their last years a good 3 years thanks to the great medical care, were spent with dignity and care. Yes, the airport and Metro are world class stuff!
The city’s famously pleasant weather became a welcomed constant. And yes, while Bangalore has its share of infrastructure challenges—traffic jams being the most notorious—I’ve experienced worse. Pune comes to mind! The slower pace of urban development here can be frustrating, but the warmth of the people balances out these irritations. It’s a state where life takes its own rhythm; sometimes, even the nine-month journey can feel stretched to 14 months!
One change that truly marked our journey was our move to Malleswaram, 15 years ago in to our apartment. Malleswaram, with its echoes of Madurai and Trichy, captures the essence of life as we appreciate it—temples, markets brimming with flowers and spices, and food, (Which we now avoid more make home food these days) and a sense of community that resonates with our cultural roots.
Another significant chapter unfolded for Lalitha in Bangalore. Since 2006, she’s rekindled her educational coaching career with remarkable success, creating a name for herself and achieving a fulfilling financial independence. I am deeply grateful to the mentors who placed their trust in me—Mr. R Melanta, Dr. KRP Shenoy, and Dr. A Hegde—whose belief paved the way for my acceptance at AstraZeneca and ultimately our family’s journey here.
Politics remains an interesting dynamic in Karnataka. I’ve always held strong opinions, yet I appreciate genuine efforts from leaders like our MLA, Dr. Ashwath Narayan, whose work resonates with integrity.
In all, Karnataka has not just been a place to live but a place that has allowed us to truly thrive. It’s where family dreams took flight, careers blossomed, and friendships were nurtured. So, as Karnataka celebrates its formation, I join in, proud and thankful, for the life this state has afforded us.
Karthik
1.11.24 10am.
Yes, My Kannada off late is decent. I understand 100% and reply 20% with fucked up Grammar!!! hahah!
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