MCC warns against littering, use of plastic atop Chamundi Hills during Ashada festivities in Mysuru
Pointing out that protecting the environment and maintaining cleanliness on Chamundi Hill is a collective responsibility, MCC urges organisations, volunteers, traders, and devotees to support its Clean Chamundi HillPlastic-Free Ashada Month campaign
Bidadi township issue: Farmers stage road blockade in Mysuru against alleged police brutality
Stop the forcible eviction of street vendors in Mysuru immediately: CPI(M)
Competitive exams reward merit alone, says Mysuru SP
Third free mock test for competitive examinations organised at the City Central Library
Footpath encroachments cleared in parts of Mysuru
KRS inflow drops sharply as rainfall eases In Cauvery catchment
Mandya: The inflow into the Krishnaraja Sagar (KRS) reservoir has dropped sharply following a decline in rainfall across the Cauvery catchment area, raising fresh concerns among farmers in the Old Mysuru region. Just a few days ago, heavy rains had pushed the reservoirs inflow beyond 12,000 cusecs. However, with rainfall easing, the inflow has fallen Get the latest updates in Hyderabad City News , Technology , Entertainment , Sports , Politics and Top Stories on WhatsApp & Telegram by subscribing to our channels. You can also download our app for Android and iOS .
Mysuru records 99.47% voter form distribution
Mysuru: Free womens oncology clinic, HPV vaccination drive to be organised on July 15
The clinic and vaccination drive will be held at the BHIO Day Care Clinic, Kuvempunagar, from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m.
Mysuru: State SVEEP Nodal Officer inspects Voter Facilitation Centre
During the visit, Mr. Vastrad reviewed the facilities provided to the public, the process of receiving applications, verification of supporting documents and the overall progress of the SIR exercise.
Mysuru: Kannada activist Vatal Nagaraj threatens Karnataka bandh over eviction of footpath vendors
Mr. Nagaraj alleges that the government led by Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar had begun oppressing the poor soon after assuming office by evicting street vendors across the State.
An Export Facilitation Centre is coming up near the Seshadripuram Institution on Mysurus Ring Road.
Mysuru: Congress leader bats for kambala during Dasara
Describing kambala as a spectacular and adventurous sport, the Congress leader said it is not merely a sport of Tulunadu, but an integral part of the coastal regions culture.
Mysuru: Police nab alleged chain snatcher, recover 97-gram gold chain
The police recovered the gold mangalya chain and motorcycle from him
S. Janaki's granddaughter Apsara's emotional farewell is hard to miss
Legendary singer S. Janaki was laid to rest with state honours in Mysuru. Her granddaughter Apsara paid an emotional tribute, calling her a unique talent. Apsara remembered her grandmother as kind, generous, and full of love and laughter. She stated that Janaki's music will ensure her eternal presence among fans. The singer's voice will continue to live on through her vast musical legacy.
Over 70 traffic violation cases against police patrol vehicle in Mysuru
Watch: Remembering S. Janaki (1938-2026): The voice that belonged to every State
Legendary playback singer S. Janaki passed away in Mysuru on July 11 at the age of 88, leaving behind a musical legacy that spans generations. Fondly known as Janaki-amma, she recorded songs in 18 languages and was admired for her ability to sing everythingfrom classical compositions and romantic melodies to folk songs, devotional music and even songs in a childs voice.
Veteran Singer S Janaki Cremated With Full State Honours In Mysuru
S Janaki's granddaughter, Apsara Vydyula, performed the last rites by lighting her grandmother's funeral pyre as Vedic hymns were chanted
Singer Janaki cremated with state honours in Mysuru
Janakis granddaughter Apsara Vydyula performed the last rites as per Andhra Brahmin traditions in the presence of her close relatives, peoples representatives, friends, and a large number of admirers and the general public
Legendary singer S Janaki cremated with full state honours
Mysuru: Legendary playback singer S Janaki was cremated with full state honours at her Kaniyanahundi farmhouse here on Sunday evening. The singer died in a private hospital at the age of 88 following a respiratory problem on Saturday evening. As announced by Chief Minister D K Shivakumar, a police team offered her a gun salute Get the latest updates in Hyderabad City News , Technology , Entertainment , Sports , Politics and Top Stories on WhatsApp & Telegram by subscribing to our channels. You can also download our app for Android and iOS .
Singer S. Janaki cremated with full state honours in Mysuru as fans, celebrities pay tributes
Extensive arrangements had been made at the farmhouse, with barricades erected from the approach road to the place of cremation
S. Janakis Strong Bonding With Mysuru
She wished to spend her last days in Mysuru city and was searching for a house to permanently settle down
Singer S. Janaki Cremated With Full State Honours in Mysuru
Legendary Playback Singer Honoured by Karnataka Government for Her Lifetime Contribution to Music
Naidu asks Karnataka to hold S. Janakis last rites with State honours in Mysuru
The playback singer, who hailed from Repalle in Bapatla district and won four National Awards, will be cremated in Mysuru with full official honours; leaders across parties paid tributes
Why S. Janaki Rejected the Padma Bhushan
S. Janaki, the iconic Nightingale of South India, has sadly passed away at the age of eighty-eight in Mysuru. Known affectionately as Janaki Amma, she famously rejected the Padma Bhushan in 2013, arguing that recognition for artists should come while they are still alive. Janaki passionately believed her legacy warranted the Bharat Ratna, highlighting the importance of timely recognition in the arts.
Legendary playback singer Janaki declined Padma Bhushan
Mysuru: Legendary playback singer S. Janaki had declined the Padma Bhushan, Indias third-highest civilian honour, when it was announced by the Central Government in 2013, saying the recognition had come too late in her illustrious career. Reacting to the award at the time, Janaki had expressed disappointment that the Centre had failed to recognise her Get the latest updates in Hyderabad City News , Technology , Entertainment , Sports , Politics and Top Stories on WhatsApp & Telegram by subscribing to our channels. You can also download our app for Android and iOS .
DK Shivakumar, others mourn demise of S Janaki
Legendary playback singer S Janaki, fondly known as the Nightingale of South India, passed away at the age of 88 at Apollo Hospital in Mysuru after suffering age-related health complications.
S Janaki, the nightingale of South Indian cinema, passes away at 88
Legendary playback singer S Janaki, known as Janaki Amma, passed away at 88. She breathed her last at Apollo Hospital after suffering multiple cardiac arrests. Janaki made Mysuru her home after retiring from playback singing in 2017. She recorded over 48,000 songs in more than 20 languages during her career. Last rites will be performed at a farmhouse in Kaniyanahundi on Sunday.
Delayed foot overbridge leaves pedestrians crossing busy Bengaluru-Mysuru highway at risk
Kambala at Mysuru Dasara? Proposal pits cultural inclusion against tradition
BJP Leader Accuses Karnataka CM of Exploiting Bangladeshi Migrants for Votes
Mysuru, July 11: Senior BJP leader and opposition head in Karnataka, R. Ashoka, launched a sharp attack on Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar, labeling him as the Mask Chief Minister. Ashoka accused Shivakumar of misleading the people of Karnataka, claiming that illegal migrants from Bangladesh have become a vote bank for the state government. He made ... Read more BJP Leader Accuses Karnataka CM of Exploiting Bangladeshi Migrants for Votes
Veteran playback singer S Janaki passes away at 88
Mysuru: Veteran playback singer S Janaki has died at a private hospital here due to age-related ailments, sources said on Saturday, July 11. She was 88 years old. According to sources, she developed breathing issues last night and was subsequently admitted to the hospital. Known for her versatility, Janaki recorded over 48,000 songs in multiple Get the latest updates in Hyderabad City News , Technology , Entertainment , Sports , Politics and Top Stories on WhatsApp & Telegram by subscribing to our channels. You can also download our app for Android and iOS .
S. Janaki, legendary playback singer, passes away | LIVE
She was admitted to Apollo Hospital in Mysuru in the early hours of Saturday after she developed health complications
Veteran playback singer S. Janaki passes away
She was admitted to Apollo Hospital in Mysuru in the early hours of Saturday after she developed health complications.
Lok Adalat settles over 10,700 pending cases in Mysuru
84.39 crore disputes resolved; 38 couples reunite after amicable settlement
Mysuru district police sensitised on effective beat policing
Veteran Playback Singer S Janaki Passes Away In Mysuru
During her six-decade career, she recorded nearly 48,000 songs in multiple Indian and foreign languages, becoming an iconic voice for generations of film stars
Street Vendors No To Make Use of Mini Markets Available for Free In Mysuru
The mini markets constructed by Mysore Urban Development at certain locations across Mysuru city have remained unoccupied for close to 25 years and the mini markets have become resting for destitute persons and parking spaces for the residents
Kumaraswamy Opposes Inclusion of Kambala in Mysuru Dasara Celebrations
Bengaluru, July 11: Central Minister H.D. Kumaraswamy expressed his opposition on Saturday to the proposal of including Kambala in the Karnataka governments Mysuru Dasara celebrations. He emphasized that there is no need to alter the traditional essence of this world-famous festival. Kambala is a traditional buffalo racing festival celebrated in the coastal regions of South ... Read more Kumaraswamy Opposes Inclusion of Kambala in Mysuru Dasara Celebrations
Water only for drinking and not irrigation for now as KRS levels stay low: Ramalinga Reddy
The available water will be sufficient to meet drinking water needs in Mysuru, Mandya and Chamarajanagar districts for the next three to four months, the Minister said
No scaling down Mysuru Dasara, says D.K. Shivakumar
An executive committee will be constituted shortly to oversee the arrangements, and the govt. will also approach the Centre for permission to organise an air show as part of the festivities
MCC begins drive against footpath encroachments in Mysuru
Mysuru Dasara 2026 from October 11, Jumbo Savari on October 21
Bengaluru : The Karnataka government has kick-started preparations for the world-famous Mysuru Dasara 2026, with Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar chairing a high-level preparatory meeting at Vidhana Soudha on Friday. The meeting finalised the schedule for the 10-day state festival, with the inauguration set for October 11 at 11.50 am atop Chamundi Hill and the grand Get the latest updates in Hyderabad City News , Technology , Entertainment , Sports , Politics and Top Stories on WhatsApp & Telegram by subscribing to our channels. You can also download our app for Android and iOS .
Kambala at Mysuru Dasara will dilute festivals heritage, claim organisations
Mysuru achieves 83.9% progress in electoral roll revision
Over 23.49 lakh forms distributed; 927 polling booths complete enumeration form distribution
MLA launches road project in industrial area in Mysuru
Dr. Yathindra directed officials to ensure that there is no negligence in waste management, and to further strengthen the system for greater efficiency
Car graze snowballs into assault on Mysuru highway: 3 Bengaluru cabbies arrested
Three Bengaluru cab drivers were arrested Monday for a road rage incident. The accused allegedly hit a 37-year-old man with a rod on July 5. This incident occurred after a minor collision at a toll plaza near Maddur. The victim's car was intercepted and damaged by the accused's vehicles. Police are searching for two additional suspects involved in the attack.
Karnataka SIR: Enumeration form distribution crosses 77% in Karnataka
Among districts, Belagavi recorded the highest number of enumeration forms distributed at 30.9 lakh, followed by Mysuru (22.27 lakh), Kalaburagi (19.07 lakh), Tumakuru (19.39 lakh) and Bengaluru Urban (16.9 lakh)
Hampi, Lakkundi and Mysuru selected for development under Global Destination Development project
George says Hampi, Mysuru, Lakkundi will be developed as global tourism destinations
He says connectivity, private investment and infrastructure will come through the Centres Global Destination Development initiative
Master plan needed to address sewage pollution in Mysurus lakes: MGP
MGP said Kukkarahalli, Lingambudhi, Thipparayana, Karanji and Hebbal lakes are being polluted by sewage flowing through stormwater drains, posing a serious threat to the prime water bodies
Three held for assaulting motorist on BengaluruMysuru Highway
Mob attacks family in car on Bengaluru-Mysuru Expressway
Bengaluru: A shocking road rage incident on the Bengaluru-Mysuru Expressway has triggered public outrage after dashcam footage of a mob brutally assaulting a man in front of his family went viral on social media. The horrifying assault, captured on the dashcam of a vehicle travelling behind, shows a group of men charging at a blue Get the latest updates in Hyderabad City News , Technology , Entertainment , Sports , Politics and Top Stories on WhatsApp & Telegram by subscribing to our channels. You can also download our app for Android and iOS .
'Stopped, surrounded': Family with children attacked over road rage on Bengaluru-Mysuru Highway
Three individuals were arrested following a road rage incident near Maddur. A family traveling with children was reportedly attacked after a minor vehicle collision. A video capturing the alleged assault has surfaced on social media platforms. The incident occurred on the Bengaluru-Mysuru access-controlled highway late at night. Police are investigating the circumstances and identities of those involved.
Lok Adalat: Over 24,700 cases identified for settlement in Mysuru district
BJP seeks transparent electoral roll revision in N.R. constituency in Mysuru
DC assures action after Mysuru MP-led delegation raises concerns over SIR exercise
Homage paid to Babu Jagjivan Ram in Mysuru on his 40th death anniversary
Public vigilance helped conserve Mysurus lakes, says activist at Mysuru Literature Festival-2026
Mysuru: No politics of hatred, work for people instead, Kumaraswamy tells peoples representatives
10th edition of Mysuru Literature Festival begins
Kolar officials get notices over SIR lapses in Karnataka
Bengaluru: The ongoing Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls in Karnataka has come under scrutiny after alleged procedural violations were reported from Kolar and Mysuru. In Kolar, the District Administration has issued notices to a tahsildar, an Assistant Commissioner (AC), a supervisor and five Booth Level Officers (BLOs) for alleged dereliction of duty during Get the latest updates in Hyderabad City News , Technology , Entertainment , Sports , Politics and Top Stories on WhatsApp & Telegram by subscribing to our channels. You can also download our app for Android and iOS .
SWR general manager inspects Mysuru Railway Workshop
Mysuru: Textile exports likely to rise nearly tenfold by 2030
Textile industries in the city eye US$500 million trade
Farmers rally in Mysuru against Bidadi township, demand drought relief
Seven arrested for firing at a truck driver with an airgun on Bengaluru-Mysuru road
BJP Plans to Rally Against Government Over Farmers Issues, Says BY Vijayendra
Mysuru, July 2: Karnataka BJP President and MLA BY Vijayendra stated on Thursday that the controversy surrounding cross-voting in the recent Legislative Council elections has been resolved. He declared that the matter is now closed. This statement comes amidst speculation of internal discord within the Karnataka BJP following the elections, where reports of cross-voting sparked ... Read more BJP Plans to Rally Against Government Over Farmers Issues, Says BY Vijayendra
Strong opposition to staging Kambala during Dasara in Mysuru
The participants also decided to constitute an action committee comprising representatives of the participating organisations to plan a series of protests against the event
Bomb threat to Mysuru court complex turns out to be a hoax
Fire department conducts drill at Nexus Mall in Mysuru
Gujarat Handicrafts Utsav 2026 in Mysuru from July 3 to July 12
Mysuru hosts PHEDM Tier-III programme to build district-level disaster response capacity
Why Technology Must Remain Our Servant, Not Our Master
Technology may connect billions of devices, but only humanity can truly connect hearts The smartphone is undoubtedly one of humanity's greatest inventions. It has revolutionised communication, education, healthcare, banking, governance and commerce, placing an unprecedented amount of knowledge and convenience in the palm of our hands. Yet, like every technological revolution, its misuse has created challenges that society is only beginning to understand. Today, millions of people are not merely using social mediathey are increasingly living for it. Virtual approval has begun replacing genuine human happiness, while digital popularity is often mistaken for personal success. According to the Global Digital Report 2025 (DataReportal), there are over 5.5 billion internet users worldwide, including more than 5.2 billion active social media users. The average person spends over 2 hours and 20 minutes every day on social networking platforms. Among teenagers and young adults, daily usage frequently exceeds five to seven hours. What was originally designed as a communication tool has gradually evolved into a powerful force shaping emotions, relationships, opinions and even personal identity. Social media platforms are driven by sophisticated algorithms designed to maximise user engagement rather than personal well-being. Every notification, like, comment and share activates the brain's reward circuitry by releasing dopaminethe neurotransmitter associated with pleasure and anticipation. Neuroscientists have compared this intermittent reward mechanism to those employed by gambling machines, making repeated checking of smartphones almost instinctive. It is therefore unsurprising that many users unconsciously unlock their phones over 100 times a day, often without any genuine purpose. The consequences are increasingly visible in everyday life. Family dinners are interrupted by smartphones. Tourist destinations are visited more for photographs than for appreciation. Concerts are watched through mobile screens instead of with one's own eyes. Weddings, birthdays, festivals and even acts of charity are frequently staged for online audiences rather than experienced personally. Memories are no longer treasured in the heart; they are converted into reels and stories. Experiences appear meaningful only after accumulating likes, comments and shares. The Young Generation: The Greatest Casualty Perhaps the most disturbing consequence of excessive smartphone and social media use is its impact on children and adolescents. This is the first generation in history to grow up with smartphones from early childhood, and mounting scientific evidence suggests that excessive digital exposure is affecting their mental health, learning ability, emotional stability and social development. According to UNICEF, nearly one in every three internet users worldwide is a child. The Global Digital Report 2025 estimates that teenagers spend between four and seven hours daily on smartphones outside schoolwork, leaving little time for reading, sports, hobbies, family interaction or outdoor play. The World Health Organisation (WHO) has warned that problematic social media use among adolescents has increased sharply in recent years. Many young people exhibit addictive behavioural patterns, including compulsive checking of phones, anxiety when disconnected, inability to control screen time and emotional dependence on online approval. Such behaviour has been linked with declining academic performance, poor sleep quality, reduced physical activity, increased anxiety and depression. A landmark 2023 advisory by the U.S. Surgeon General reported that adolescents spending more than three hours daily on social media face almost twice the risk of developing symptoms of anxiety and depression compared with moderate users. Excessive exposure has also been associated with loneliness, body-image dissatisfaction, eating disorders, low self-esteem and self-harm among vulnerable adolescents. Education is suffering as well. Research published by UNESCO and several international educational institutions indicates that excessive smartphone use significantly reduces attention span, weakens memory retention and interferes with deep learning. Every notification interrupts concentration, forcing the brain to restart the learning process. Cognitive scientists estimate that after each interruption, it may require 20 to 25 minutes to regain full concentration. Thus, what appears to be a harmless glance at a notification often results in prolonged loss of productivity. Sleep deprivation has emerged as another silent epidemic. Blue light emitted by smartphone screens suppresses melatonin production, delaying sleep and reducing sleep quality. The American Academy of Paediatrics recommends minimising recreational screen exposure before bedtime because inadequate sleep adversely affects memory, emotional regulation, immunity and academic performance. Social media has also created an environment of relentless comparison. Carefully edited photographs, filtered lifestyles and unrealistic standards of beauty and success often make young people believe that their ordinary lives are somehow inadequate. The American Psychological Association (APA) reports that continuous exposure to idealised online images contributes significantly to anxiety, depression and poor body image, particularly among adolescent girls. Cyberbullying has become another major public health concern. According to UNESCO, nearly one in three students worldwide has experienced bullying, with online harassment becoming increasingly common. Unlike traditional bullying, cyberbullying follows victims into their homes through their digital devices, leaving them with no safe refuge and causing long-lasting psychological trauma. If these trends continue unchecked, society risks raising a generation that communicates fluently through screens but struggles with empathy, patience, attentive listening and genuine human relationships. Emotional intelligence develops primarily through face-to-face interactionnot through emojis, notifications, or follower counts. Perhaps the greatest casualty has been genuine human relationships. Modern communication has become faster but not necessarily deeper. A person may have thousands of online followers yet struggle to find a single trusted friend during a personal crisis. Family members living under the same roof increasingly spend evenings interacting more with their screens than with one another. Digital communication has expanded networks while paradoxically shrinking emotional intimacy. Another troubling development is the growing influence of algorithms on independent thinking. Social media platforms personalise content according to previous preferences, gradually creating echo chambers where users repeatedly encounter only opinions that reinforce their existing beliefs. This weakens critical thinking, narrows intellectual diversity and increases political and social polarisation. Instead of encouraging thoughtful dialogue, algorithms often reward outrage, sensationalism and confirmation bias because such content generates higher engagement. Public discourse has also changed. Charity initiatives, environmental campaigns and acts of kindness undoubtedly deserve appreciation. However, when humanitarian work is undertaken primarily for publicity rather than compassion, the line between genuine service and self-promotion becomes blurred. Increasingly, the value of an action appears to depend not on its social impact but on the number of views, likes and shares it receives. The economic consequences are equally significant. Workplace studies indicate that repeated smartphone interruptions substantially reduce productivity because every distraction requires additional time for the brain to regain focus. Employees who constantly switch attention between work and notifications experience reduced efficiency, increased errors and greater mental fatigue. None of this suggests that technology itself is harmful. On the contrary, smartphones have revolutionised education, enabled telemedicine, improved disaster management, expanded financial inclusion through digital payments and connected families separated by continents. During the COVID-19 pandemic, digital technologies allowed education, business and governance to continue despite unprecedented restrictions. The challenge, therefore, lies not in technology itself, but in the manner in which society chooses to use it. The solution lies not in rejecting technology but in restoring balance. Families should consciously establish screen-free periods during meals and conversations. Schools should incorporate digital literacy alongside conventional education, teaching students not merely how to operate technology but how to use it responsibly. Employers should encourage uninterrupted work periods, while individuals should periodically disconnect from digital platforms to reconnect with nature, hobbies and meaningful face-to-face relationships. Ultimately, the quality of life cannot be measured by online popularity. A thousand likes cannot replace a heartfelt conversation. Viral fame cannot substitute genuine friendship. No algorithm can replicate the comfort of a caring family or the peace of a clear conscience. Technology must remain humanity's servantnot become its master. The true richness of life lies not in how many people view our moments online, but in how deeply we experience those moments ourselves. If society fails to restore equilibrium between the virtual and the real, it risks sacrificing independent thought, meaningful relationships, mental well-being and inner contentment for the fleeting illusion of digital validation. The greatest achievements of civilisation have never been measured by notifications, followers or viral content. They have always been built upon wisdom, compassion, integrity, meaningful relationships and strength of character. Technology may connect billions of devices, but only humanity can truly connect hearts. (The Author is B.E. (Mech), B.O.E., ASME, Deputy Director of Boilers (Retd.), Mysuru)
Unicorn procedure successfully performed on cardiac patient at Jayadeva hospital in Mysuru
Mysuru airport authorities issue warning against use of laser lights
Improper Underpasses, Wildlife Corridors On Bengaluru-Mysuru Expressway Affects Elephants Crossings
The Expressway was inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in March, 2023 ahead of Assembly elections in Karnataka.
Black flag protest against SIR in Mysuru
Groups question Kambala move for Mysuru Dasara
Stakeholders to meet to voice concerns, feel the legacy and heritage of the iconic celebration should not be diluted
Mysuru to host KAPCON 2026 from July 3; over 800 delegates expected
Young Indians Parliament gives Mysuru students a taste of democracy
Wife Strangulates Hubby To Death In Mysuru, Questioned By Police
The suspicion is that Susheela allegedly strangled her husband at around 2 am on Monday after Nityananda returned drunk and soon fell asleep.
Two killed, nine injured as Mysuru-bound KSRTC bus topples in Chamarajanagar
Mysuru Literature Festival to be held on July 4 and 5
Bengaluru-Mangaluru four-track rail corridor under consideration: Union Minister V Somanna
Union Minister V. Somanna announced plans for a four-track railway line between Bengaluru and Mangaluru, alongside similar corridors for cities near Bengaluru. The Bengaluru-Tumakuru quadrupling project is set for tendering soon, with Bengaluru-Mysuru survey underway. Direct rail to Kolar and improved connectivity to Mangaluru port are prioritized. A Vande Bharat Sleeper service to Vijayapura is expected in months, and the Bengaluru-Pune high-speed rail project will be pursued.
Mysuru: Poor monsoon prospect triggers crop advisory for farmers
Pulse polio campaign launched in Mysuru, 2.19 lakh children to be covered
BJP a factory of lies, says Siddaramaiah in Mysuru
Siddaramaiah receives a heros welcome in Mysuru
Bloom Avenue: A Year-Round Flower Corridor on Bengaluru's Major Arterial Road in Kempegowda Layout
UnboxingBLR joins the record-breaking plantation drive on June 27th announced by the state government. Spread across 8 kms and 6,000+ saplings, UBLRs drive focuses on avenue roads, round-abouts in the new Kempegowda Layout Thrust on native, colour-sequenced flowering species to ensure that some part of the corridor is always in bloom round the year The plantation drives two-pronged approach keeps both aesthetics and environment in mind while boosting Bengalurus green heritage UnboxingBLR joins forces with the Bangalore Development Authority's (BDA) plantation drive with its uniquely designed Bloom Avenue project on the Major Arterial Road connecting Mysuru Road and Magadi Road. UBLR planting the first sapling for Bloom Avenue on Major Arterial Road On June 27th, as part of Nadaprabhu Kempegowda Jayanthi celebration, the Karnataka government announced a single-day plantation drive with over 50,000 volunteers planting 1.5 million saplings in Bengaluru - targeting a spot in the Guinness World Record. The city-focused not-for-profit UBLR participated in the initiative with its Bloom Avenue project. Along the major arterial Road in Kempegowda Layout and roundabouts, UBLR has begun planting 6000+ saplings across 8 kms. UBLRs plantation drive is at least partly inspired by the citys green historical legacy. Bengaluru's identity as India's Garden City was never accidental, it was cultivated. The city's most enduring botanical legacy traces to Gustav Hermann Krumbiegel, the landscape architect who shaped its parks and avenues in the early twentieth century. This received a major boost in the 1980s from the then Deputy Conservator of Forests (DCF) S. G. Neginhalwho played a significant role in expanding Bengaluru's urban tree cover and reinforcing its Garden City identity. Both Krumbiegel and Neginhal have given Bengaluru its defining character of tree-lined avenue roads and seasonal colour. That legacy has shaped how generations of residents relate to their city. Bloom Avenue is a conscious continuation of that tradition by restoring intentional, aesthetically considered greenery to a major urban corridor at a moment when the city's green cover faces sustained pressure from rapid growth and densification. Bloom Avenue concept visualised using AI UBLRs Avenue Bloom focuses on flowering species that are colour-sequenced and coordinated so that some part of the corridor is in bloom every month of the year. The initiative strikes a delicate balance between aesthetics and native species in its plantation drive. Bloom Avenue is a deliberate greening intervention on a Bengaluru arterial road in recent memory. Further, the green initiative is designed to attract birds and butterflies to the layout when the saplings mature and grow into trees. The Project Bloom is being executed in partnership with BDA, which also supplied the flowering saplings through its Forest Division. UBLR has funded and executed all ground-level operations, including pit digging and planting. UBLR will undertake all protective measures during the growth period and will be responsible for watering and maintenance of these plants for the first three years. The corridor is divided into eight one-kilometre sub-zones, each planted with a distinct colour pairing drawn from complementary species ensuring that at least one sub-zone is in full bloom at any point in the year. Species selection prioritises indigenous varieties deeply adapted to Bengaluru's climate; where naturalised non-native species are included, they carry strong cultural and botanical ties to the city's history. Phase 2 will extend planting to service roads alongside ongoing maintenance of Phase 1 saplings. The three-year maintenance commitment covers watering, monitoring, replacement of failed saplings, and upkeep to BDA standards. Long back, German botanist Krumbiegel made Bengaluru bloom all through the year. Decades later, the beauty of his work endures, enriching the citys natural heritage and enhancing Bengalurus aesthetic appeal. Taking inspiration, Project Bloom focuses on both native species and flowering aesthetics to boost Bengalurus natural heritage for future generations. What makes this project special is the coming together of citizens, institutions, and government around a shared vision for the city, Prashanth Prakash, Chairman, UnboxingBLR Foundation. We are very pleased to see Bloom Avenue move from concept to ground reality. The BDA has been glad to facilitate this, from providing the saplings and granting the necessary approvals, to supporting a model of civic collaboration that we hope will inspire many more such partnerships across the city. The Magadi RoadMysuru Road corridor will be greener and more beautiful for it, Major Manivannan P, Commissioner, Bangalore Development Authority. "Bloom Avenue is exactly the kind of initiative Bengaluru needs by being citizen-led, rigorously planned, and built for the long term. A green, blooming corridor along Magadi Road and Mysuru Road will benefit the residents and communities and serve as a model for how our arterial roads can be transformed. We are happy to have it as part of the plantation drive for Kempegowda Jayanthi celebration on June 27th," N. A. Haris, Chairman, Bangalore Development Authority. About UnboxingBLR Foundation UnboxingBLR (UBLR) is a Bengaluru-focused not-for-profit platform working with multiple stakeholders to envision and execute city-scale projects. UBLR operates at the intersection of content, culture, and city-building, documenting the city's journey, shaping its civic agenda, and building programmes designed to last. Founded in 2023 by Prashanth Prakash and Malini Goyal, UBLR brings together people, communities, and institutions to co-create Bengalurus story, serving as a city champion, catalyst and an enabler for a range of initiatives. UBLR drives initiatives such as BLR Hubba, a city-wide festival celebrating art and culture; Namma Bengaluru Challenge, a city-focused accelerator program that supports startups and changemakers tackling urban challenges; WeAreCity annual data report that offers multi-dimensional data-led insights on India's top eight cities; Code to Culture, a podcast focused on voices and stories from the city. UBLR in partnership with the Department of IT/BT/DoE is also building India's first Museum of Innovation, Startup and Technology in Bengaluru.
