As Varsha Ritu arrives, Bengaluru transforms. Rain showers grace rose bushes, and the city buzzes with seasonal festivities. From August 7–17, Lalbagh hosts its iconic Flower Show, this year honouring Rani Chennamma and Sangoli Rayanna — names that evoke history and resistance.
In neighbourhood markets, Rakhis and Indian flags line stalls, setting the mood for Raksha Bandhan and Independence Day. The cool breeze, overcast skies, and glimpses of school parade rehearsals from the Bangalore Metro create the perfect monsoon backdrop.
This season also celebrates India’s rich textile heritage. At Bangalore International Centre, textile revivalist Chandra Jain curates an exhibit on Banarasi brocades (Aug 14–20). Meanwhile, The Registry of Sarees introduced many to the Risha, a lesser-known upper garment from Tripura. Another highlight, Weftscapes, presented indigo-dyed jamdani kimonos, with a dialogue between choreographer Madhu Natraj and designer Bappaditya Biswas, blending movement and design.
Art finds space at Panchavati, physicist CV Raman’s preserved home in Malleshwaram, where stone sculptures showcased movement through ancient media — though the exhibit’s male-dominated lineup raised concerns on gender balance in art.
Bengaluru’s food scene, too, reflects this cultural shift. Global pop-ups now feature local Asian chefs, with Thai cuisine taking centerstage. Bar takeovers continue, like the recent appearance by Stephano Bussi of Hong Kong’s The Aubrey.
Amid all this, the monsoon itself becomes the muse. Think of Monsoon Wedding, and its anthem Rabba Rabba Meh Varsa. If you want to feel it — come to Bengaluru.