Why would the Almighty Creator need to do things by halves? The answer is, obviously, He would not! His design for Creation would be a grand and purposeful one. That being the case, let us trace the amazing journey of Bangalore from pastoral simplicity to global prominence, particularly in the IT Sector. . One could even go so far as to say that Bangalore mirrors the biblical journey of the human race reflecting faith, vision and transformation.
Over the years, Bangalore, which was once known as the Garden City, has now been overpopulated, congested and totally transformed by high rise commercial and residential buildings. Within my living memory, it was known as a retirement paradise replete with bungalows which I would look at eagerly as my train chugged in from Coonoor via Coimbatore. Folks were eminently hospitable, and I would land up at unearthly hours at the home of my dear friend, the (late) Mrs.Aruna Sundarlal who ran a Music School in a part of her home. There was a plaque on the front door which I loved. It read: As for me and my house, we shall serve the Lord.
It has been said that Bangalore is a city born of humble beginnings. Pastor William Ferdinand, the perfect Gentleman Pastor who still led his flock even when he was 95 years of age, and throughout the COVID epidemic. He would sit in the church without a mask, modelling faith, fearlessly and testifying to Gods all sufficient protection. Pastor Ferdinand often reiterated that there was at first nothing in the area where the Revival Center Church on Hutchins Road came to be located other than vineyards. It was just such a journey of faith, vision and transformation similar to that which was undertaken by Abram who disentangled himself from his cultural roots and became Abraham to serve the Lord.
Another strength of Bangalore is its rock base in the main city area. The words, ‘Rock of Ages cleft for me, let me hide myself in Thee!’ bring real comfort to the weary traveller along life’s way. Coming to the Genesis of Bangalore, Kempe Gowda, a visionary leader, laid the foundation of the city. He can be considered as a modern day Noah or Abraham stepping out in faith. Moreover, fertile and serene, Bangalore resembled Eden, where all that Gods abundance required was human stewardship. Fields stretched out as far as the eye could see, rivers gurgled playfully and harmony reigned supreme.
Nevertheless, we have all heard it said that nothing is as certain as change! With the advent of British rule, Bangalore faced trials reminiscent of Joseph’s trials in Egypt when he was falsely accused and jailed. Nevertheless, as Shakespeare wrote, and I quote, Sweet are the uses of adversity, which like a toad, ugly and venomous, wears yet a precious jewel in its crown. Not surprisingly then, soon enough, Bangalore became a hub of progress, reminiscent of Joseph’s rising in Egypt, a beacon of order amidst chaos.
It must be said that the Christian ethical viewpoint is rooted in the Biblical directive to safeguard and nurture creation. Bangalore’s development embodies the spirit presenting God’s mandate to man. The biblical command to care and protect is seen through Bangalore’s robust gardens aimed at protecting ecology while simultaneously fueling development, from the lush green gardens of Lalbagh and Cubbon Park to major industrial hubs developing technology.
The development includes a humanitarian effort with a focus on projects addressing urgent social issues such as supporting the suffering and needy. In this context, mention must be made of Mother Theresa’s Homes. The Sisters of Charity are most grateful for the baby food in the form of packets of cerelac I have been taking for the bed ridden children for many years. It is a small contribution, but the peace and joy one feels at participating in the Kingdom effort is unspeakable.
Selfless service of people through the many other NGOs stand testament to an inclusive development that Bangalore embodies by fostering a holistic approach to sustainable development. Animal Shelters announce another characteristic of Bangaloreans which is their love for animals. Pet shops have sprung up everywhere, but only for small dogs and cats. The large ones must be kept on the outskirts as they can pose a threat to children who wish to pet and cuddle them regardless of whether or not they have had their shots.
Today, Bangalore stands as a New Jerusalem of technology and innovation, blending ancient wisdom with futuristic vision. According to current projections, Bengaluru is likely to become a major global tech hub with a rapidly expanding economy, characterized by a significant rise in the IT Sector, especially with increased focus on electric vehicles.
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In a nutshell from pastoral roots to tech haven, Bangalore reflects divine purpose, shaping history into destiny and is expected to be one of the fastest growing cities globally with a major focus on technology and innovation. Surely the planning of Bengaluru as the New Jerusalem will be based on a prototype of City development keeping in mind sustainability.
Cherry Burke Ojha has served as Principal of premier schools. She has published several e-Books on Creative Writing. In 2015 she was named one of twenty Women Achievers of Bangalore and beyond.
