Bangalore Through a Climate Lens: What the City Taught Me
22nd to 26th July
My visit to Bangalore wasn’t just another trip—it was a deep dive into how cities can hold the key to climate solutions, if we just learn to look closely.
We began at Yours Truly Theatre, where stories unfolded with emotion and urgency. One powerful takeaway? Art can be activism. It made me think about how climate change isn’t just data and policies—it’s about people, feelings, and communities who live with its consequences.
Lalbagh Botanical Garden was a gentle but firm reminder of what urban green spaces mean in a world heating up. Walking among century-old trees and watching bees buzz around native plants, I could feel the climate clock ticking—and how green lungs like Lalbagh are fighting quietly to keep cities breathing.
At Hasiru Dala, the reality hit harder. We met waste warriors—individuals who are often invisible in city systems, yet are doing the most climate-responsible work: segregation, recycling, and reducing landfill waste. Their dignity, strength, and clarity changed how I look at garbage forever. Climate action, I realized, isn’t glamorous—it’s gritty and grounded.
Meeting Mr. Shibulal was like being handed a compass. He spoke not only of business but of responsibility—how innovation must serve sustainability. Then at Reap Benefit, we saw how simple local problems can be tackled with climate-smart solutions. From water conservation to air quality monitoring, they’re proving that change doesn’t need a stage—it just needs commitment.
We walked through Cubbon Park, where massive trees stood like old guardians. In a city rushing ahead with buildings and tech, this space felt like a reminder to pause, protect, and coexist. Climate resilience isn’t just about carbon cuts—it’s about protecting spaces where life can thrive.
At MAP (Museum of Art & Photography), I saw the intersection of culture and climate. Through photographs and installations, the silent crisis of environmental loss echoed through art. It reminded me that even history will one day be judged by how we treated our planet.
Our last night was emotional—a formal farewell, where we celebrated, reflected, and probably cried a little. Over Mexican food, we weren’t just sharing nachos—we were sharing hope. Hope that our generation, having seen these realities up close, will act more mindfully.
Bangalore showed me that climate change isn’t always about disasters and headlines. Sometimes, it's in compost bins, rainwater tanks, green parks, and the voices of waste pickers. I came back with questions, ideas, and a fire to do more.