Nine-year-old Ansh was thrilled to visit Bengaluru, a city he had heard enchanting tales about from his grandparents. Having spent all his life in Hubballi, his excitement knew no bounds, even though a bus ride marred by motion sickness meant he missed his first glimpse of the city.
The next morning, he eagerly accompanied his Dadaji to Lalbagh Botanical Garden. “At 7:45 AM, the traffic is already bustling!” Ansh exclaimed. Dadaji explained it was due to nearby schools. They entered through one of Lalbagh’s four gates, where Dadaji held Ansh’s hand tightly amidst the thronging crowd.
Dadaji shared fascinating facts: Lalbagh was initiated by Hyder Ali in 1760 and completed by Tipu Sultan. The iconic glass house, built in 1890, hosts grand flower shows during Republic Day and Independence Day. Ansh’s awe grew as he marveled at the garden’s beauty, calling it the “lungs of Bengaluru.”
But soon, the crowd swept Ansh away from Dadaji. Lost and nervous, he joined a tourist group led by a guide, hoping for safety. The guide explained Lalbagh’s wonders: a 240-acre expanse with rare plants from around the world, a 40-acre lake, and even India’s first lawn clock. Ansh’s curiosity flourished as he explored towering ancient trees, the Lalbagh Rock, and Kempegowda’s tower.
Finally, Ansh spotted Dadaji near the gate, speaking to officials. Tears brimmed in his grandfather’s eyes as they reunited. “Next time, I’ll tie you to myself!” Dadaji joked. Ansh laughed, cherishing his unexpected adventure.
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