Having travelled extensively across Karnataka during his tenure, Chandru says what stands out most is its diversity — not just in its landscapes and cuisine, but also in the way its communities coexist. Savouring one of his last masala dosaes in Bengaluru, just a day before completing his tenure as British Deputy High Commissioner for Karnataka, Chandru Iyer sits down with Bangalore Times to reflect on the city and state that have been home to him for four years. The rakhis still adorning his wrist — some sent by his sisters and others tied by family in Bengaluru — are a reminder of the personal connections he has made here. But as he looks back on his time in Karnataka, it is the people, culture, art, food and distinctive character of the state that dominate his reflections. Excerpts:
His travels across the state have introduced him to Davangere benne dose, Hubballi-Dharwad’s susla, Mysuru’s Mylari dosa, Mangaluru buns and goli bajji.
We can celebrate the food, culture, traditions and people of Karnataka,” he says. One of the easiest ways to experience Karnataka, Chandru says, is through its food. That’ll be fun,” he says.
For Chandru, the next step is taking Karnataka’s diversity beyond the state and even beyond India. He hopes to see a festival in London that showcases Karnataka’s food, culture, traditions, crafts and products. “My vision is to get Mysore sandal soap, Mysore silk, Chikkamagaluru coffee and Channapatna toys to the UK. “Mangaluru is also the ice cream capital of the country. It’s amazing to see the quality of ice cream brands there. I’m keen to see if some of these brands can come and set up outlets in the UK. “I think it is still one of the greenest cities in India. I love the weather. There are a few months when it’s hot, but post-summer, it’s beautiful. When I come out of my house, have a cup of South Indian filter coffee and look at the skyline, I think no other metro city in India has what Bengaluru has. You Can Also Check: Gold Rate in Bengaluru | Silver Rate in Bengaluru | Bank Holidays in Bengaluru | Public Holidays in Bengaluru | Bengaluru AQI | Weather in Bengaluru | Petrol Price in Bengaluru | Diesel Price in Bengaluru | CNG Price in Bengaluru | LPG Price in Bengaluru