BENGALURU: A Dutch traveller has captured the Internet’s attention after sharing her awe-filled experience of visiting Kempegowda International Airport, describing the world-class terminal as a place that feels like “stepping into the future”. In a video posted on Instagram, content creator Ivana showcased the airport’s architecture, greenery and ambience, sparking a fresh wave of appreciation for Bengaluru’s increasingly global image.
A blend of tradition and technology
In her video, Ivana highlights how India’s diversity often appears within the same day of travel. Her caption reads: “There’s a traditional India, and then there’s the India that feels like you’ve stepped into the future!” She adds that for many foreigners, landing at Bengaluru Airport challenges preconceived notions shaped by films such as Slumdog Millionaire.
She describes Terminal 2 as an aesthetic haven reminiscent of a movie set, writing: “This place? It looks more like you’re stepping into the Jurassic Park set.” Surrounded by lush green installations, soaring ceilings and carefully planned natural lighting, the terminal has impressed both domestic and international passengers. In her clip, Ivana captures indoor gardens, tall bamboo pillars and large open spaces that she calls “breathtaking for any traveller”.
The Dutch creator also notes that airports often serve as a traveller’s first impression of a country. In that sense, Bengaluru—often celebrated as India’s tech hub—makes a bold architectural statement. Her video includes glimpses of the indoor waterfall feature and the serene pathways that have been widely praised since the terminal’s opening.
International recognition for Terminal 2
Ivana’s enthusiastic review aligns with global praise that Bengaluru’s Terminal 2 has received since its inauguration. The terminal was awarded the World Special Prize for an Interior 2023 by UNESCO’s prestigious Prix Versailles, one of the most respected design recognitions in the world.
The jury commended the terminal’s innovative use of sustainable materials, especially bamboo, highlighting how its design merges environmental consciousness with modern functionality. The vast green zones—often referred to as “terminal gardens”—have been called an architectural breakthrough, offering travellers a calming experience rarely associated with busy airports.
Terminal 2 was also designed with a strong focus on passenger well-being. The layout encourages natural ventilation, minimises harsh artificial lighting and creates a sense of ease despite heavy footfall. Many travellers compare it favourably to some of the world’s most luxurious airports in Singapore, Doha and Seoul.
A reflection on India’s contrasting eras
In her caption, Ivana goes beyond mere appreciation of design. She uses the airport as an example to explain the country’s dual identity—a blend of heritage and hypermodernity. She writes: “Here’s the thing: you can travel through India and only choose one era… It’s pretty wild when you travel through time on the same trip.”
She points out that a visitor can wake up sipping chai in Old Delhi’s narrow lanes and by evening walk through one of the world’s most advanced airport terminals. According to her, this coexistence of eras is what makes India uniquely fascinating.
This perspective has resonated with travellers who often find India’s diversity overwhelming yet magical. For long-time residents too, her words capture the essence of travelling across different states—each with its own rhythm, design language and cultural heartbeat.
Social media reacts to her take
Ivana’s video quickly went viral, drawing thousands of likes and comments. Many users appreciated her balanced view of India’s infrastructure development. One commenter wrote, “Bangalore and Delhi the best.” Another user said, “Maybe they call it backward because of civic sense,” suggesting that external perceptions often fail to recognise how rapidly Indian cities are evolving.
Some users also appreciated that Ivana acknowledged India’s heritage and modernity without prioritising one over the other. They felt this representation counters outdated stereotypes often projected internationally.
Her video has also sparked discussions about the quality of Indian airports, with users comparing Kempegowda International Airport to Delhi’s IGI Airport, Mumbai’s T2, and Hyderabad’s Rajiv Gandhi International Airport—all of which consistently rank among the best in Asia.
A showcase of India’s future-ready infrastructure
Bengaluru’s Terminal 2 stands as a testament to India’s growing emphasis on sustainability, design and passenger comfort. With rising international connectivity, the airport has become both a transit point and an architectural attraction. Travellers frequently share photos from the terminal, making it one of the most Instagrammed airports in India.
Ivana’s post adds yet another voice to the global admiration the airport has been receiving. For many, her review reinforces that India is rapidly modernising while staying deeply rooted in its cultural identity. As international tourism continues to grow, such representations help reshape global understanding of contemporary India—one airport terminal at a time.