Isabel has integrated into Bangalore so well; she's busy blogging about the numerous activities that keep happening in this busy city.
Isabel Putinja, translator, classical dancer, writer and communications officer for SHARAN (Sanctuary for Health and Reconnection to Animals and Nature), came to Bangalore with her husband.
“My husband got a job here and I thought the opportunity was a dream come true. I had come to India several times before for dance, so it was no surprise. I liked it here from day one,” says Isabel, who is currently learning Odissi, and photography.
“What I like about the city is that the culture is so vibrant. There is always something going on, be it dance performances, concerts, or film screenings. One gets to see a variety of styles in the performing arts.”
Isabel does not find much to complain about, not even traffic. “I don't want to be negative. I think all cities have traffic issues. I take it in my stride,” shrugs the lady, who speaks four languages — English, French, German and Croatian. And now she's learning Kannada!
“I think it is important to speak the local language. I grew up in Canada and I have lived in Austria, Belgium and the UK. I have always made an effort to learn the local language. A lot of people tell me to learn Hindi because they think it will be more useful. But when I speak Kannada to an auto-driver, the look on his face is priceless.”
Coming to India has also had a huge advantage for Isabel because she is vegan. She became a vegetarian when she was 16. “But I turned vegan after attending a workshop by Dr. Nandita Shah of SHARAN. As a vegetarian, I had a very hard time before coming to India. Here, I find that people respect differences. It's easy to be vegan here because there are so many options. Most South Indian food is vegan, except for curd. Shortly after becoming vegan, I started a blog called ‘Vegan Bengaluru' with a friend. I made a lot of friends through the blog and we have vegan potlucks or organise events to spread awareness.”
Isabel's weekends are always full, packed with many events, mostly performances. “In five years, I have not run out of ideas for my blogs.
The Arts scene is so happening, the National Gallery of Modern Art (NGMA) has become one of my favourite places. It is so beautiful — the building, the landscape and everything. I also happen to spend most of my time in Malleswaram; I love its ambience. Bangalore is really a collection of different worlds from UB City to City Market, Gandhi Bazaar and Basavanagudi. I enjoy exploring the different neighbourhoods, often, with my camera.”
