Walking through the Culture of Basavanagudi, Bengaluru - Bridging the Tradition and Urbanism through Heritage Trails.

Abstract

Bengaluru, often celebrated as India’s technology capital, is also a city rich in cultural and architectural heritage. As the metropolis undergoes rapid urbanization, its historic neighborhoods offer opportunities to strike a balance between modern growth and cultural preservation. Among these, Basavanagudi stands out as a district where deep-rooted traditions and urban dynamism coexist in a uniquely vibrant urban fabric. This paper examines how heritage walks can serve as an inclusive strategy to reconnect communities with their cultural heritage, while promoting sustainable tourism and public engagement. Focusing on Basavanagudi, home to revered landmarks such as the Bull Temple and Dodda Ganapathi Temple, bustling traditional markets like Gandhi Bazaar, and the renowned VV Puram Food Street, the study investigates how curated pedestrian experiences can bridge historical narratives with contemporary urban life. Drawing on spatial mapping, ethnographic observations, and stakeholder interviews, the research identifies key elements of the neighborhood’s intangible and tangible heritage and examines the potential of walkable cultural trails to enhance public space and promote economic inclusivity. Particular attention is given to how local traditions—spiritual, culinary, and communal—can be celebrated through interpretive design and community participation, ensuring the designed trails remain authentic and locally grounded. The paper concludes that such heritage-led regeneration offers a replicable model for growing cities, demonstrating how cultural continuity and urban inclusivity can be fostered through innovative placemaking and collaborative design approaches.