What was the ‘IT capital’ and ‘garden city’ like before it became one of the fastest growing cities in the country?
The Revival Heritage Hub, a city-based group of heritage enthusiasts, most of whom are students, will be releasing a book on Bengaluru in February. Titled ‘Kalyanapuri Bhudrushya’, the book in Kannada will trace the origins of the city pre-Kempe Gowda.
“We chose to keep Kalyanapuri as the title of the book because according to legends, it was the city’s old name. It is believed that after the 12th century Veerashaiva revolution in Kalyana, Kodikal became the second Kalyana. Later, this was shifted to south Karnataka to a place called Gumbalapura, located near Hosur in Tamil Nadu. Soon after this, Shiva Sharanas shifted to Bengaluru, and this place was called as the 4th Kalyana. Bengaluru was considered a holy place, as it had many temples and tanks (kalyanis). It is believed the name Kalyanapuri might have been derived from the word kalyani. ‘Kalyanapuri’ is also mentioned in the Karagpurana of Bengaluru Karaga. The name is also documented in a 19th century inscription found in a temple in Nagarpet,” said Rajeev Nrupathunga, a history lecturer, who started the group along with his students.
The book will give glimpses of the ‘pete’ area and its surroundings. “We have tried to trace and research local gymnasiums (garadimane), bhajan mandalis, temples, waterbodies, and major festivals. The book will also comprise old photographs and community stories, apart from history,” he said.
Manteswamy Mahakavya
The Revival Heritage Hub will also be releasing a documentary on Manteswamy Mahakavya, one of the most celebrated oral folklore figures of Karnataka, in February to showcase its richness and cultural importance.
“Manteswamy was a Veerashaiva saint, who is believed to have lived during the 15th century. He was a revolutionary figure who fought against caste-based division in society. There are many stories about him. Some see him as a man who performed miracles and fought demons and evil forces. There are stories of him uplifting communities such as the Kumbaras by breaking the monopoly of the blacksmith community over use of iron, which was essential for making agricultural tools. There are also stories that speak of connections between Manteswamy and Adi Yaduraya, the founder of the kingdom of Mysuru. We want to present these various facets on this saint’s life to the people,” said Mr. Nrupathunga.
