Bengaluru, the capital of Karnataka, has achieved a significant milestone by becoming the first Indian city to be a member of the World Cities Culture Forum (WCCF). This prestigious forum is a global network of cities that collaborate to study and understand the impact of culture on future prosperity. With Bengaluru’s inclusion, the WCCF now consists of 41 cities across six continents, with renowned cities like New York, London, Paris, Tokyo, and Dubai among its members. By joining this esteemed network, Bengaluru has furthered its commitment to promoting and harnessing the power of culture for the city’s growth and development.
Bengaluru’s Way to WCCF
- The World Cities Culture Forum (WCCF) will collaborate closely with the Unboxing BLR Foundation, an engaging project dedicated to creating a fresh narrative around Bengaluru using multimedia elements. The project has been at the forefront of representing the city and leading discussions about its culture and identity.
- The Unboxing BLR Foundation, a not-for-profit initiative co-founded in April 2022 by Prashanth Prakash, Founding Partner of Accel India and Philanthropist, and Malini Goyal, an established journalist, both based in Bengaluru, aims to transform Bengaluru into a vibrant, inclusive, and global city. Through their joint efforts, they seek to enrich the city’s cultural landscape and contribute to its overall development.
About Bengaluru
Bengaluru, formerly known as Bangalore, is a bustling megacity and the capital of Karnataka, located in Southern India.
- It is one of the fastest-growing cities in the country, with a population that has skyrocketed from one million in 1950 to over 16 million in 2023. By 2033, its population is projected to surpass 20 million, making it the third-largest city in India.
- Renowned as the “Silicon Valley of India,” Bengaluru plays a crucial role in the country’s IT sector. Around 35% of India’s one million IT professionals work in this city.
- However, Bengaluru is not just a tech hub; it is also rich in history, art, and culture, with over 30 government and private museums showcasing its heritage.
- The city boasts impressive cultural spaces, like the Bangalore International Centre, where prestigious events, lectures, and exhibitions take place.
- Bengaluru has a thriving arts community, with artists’ studios and community-focused cultural spaces promoting various art forms, theater, and music. It is home to South India’s first major private art museum, the Museum of Art and Photography (MAP), and many other cultural landmarks.
- In addition to its modernity, Bengaluru cherishes its traditional roots.
- It is a significant center for the production of films, especially in the Kannada film industry. The city embraces both North Indian (Hindustani) and South Indian (Carnatic) classical music, creating a unique cultural blend.
- Throughout the year, Bengaluru hosts a plethora of festivals and cultural events, such as the Bengaluru International Film Festival, Bangalore Literature Festival, and Future Fantastic Festival, which focuses on AI and arts.
Despite its rapid urbanization, Bengaluru remains “The Garden City of India,” boasting numerous green spaces, including the nationally recognized botanical gardens, Lal Bagh, and Cubbon Park, which serve as essential green lungs for the city.
About World Cities Culture Forum (WCCF)
- The World Cities Culture Forum (WCCF) was founded in 2012 by Justine Simons, London’s Deputy Mayor for Culture & the Creative Industries. Her contributions to London’s culture earned her an Order of the British Empire (OBE) in 2015.
- The WCCF partners share a common belief that culture plays a vital role in shaping sustainable urban centers and their future. As part of its mission, the forum conducts comparative research to assess the impact and significance of culture and creativity in cities. The findings are then shared with partner cities to help them make evidence-based policy decisions.
- Collaboration among the forum’s partners is fostered through various events, including themed symposia, regional summits, and workshops.
- These activities culminate in the yearly World Cities Culture Summit, where cities come together to exchange ideas and insights on cultural development and urban planning.
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FAQs
What is the mission of the WCCF?
The WCCF’s mission is to “promote the role of culture in making cities more sustainable, inclusive, and resilient.” The WCCF does this by providing a platform for city leaders to share best practices, learn from each other, and collaborate on projects.
What is the history of Bengaluru?
Bengaluru was founded in 1537 by Kempe Gowda I, a chieftain of the Vijayanagara Empire. It was originally known as Bengaluru Nagara, which means “City of Gardens” in Kannada.
What is Unboxing BLR Foundation?
Unboxing BLR Foundation is a participative and volunteer-driven project to craft a new brand narrative for Bangalore, through multiple media properties and perspectives. It is a collaborative brand narrative for Bangalore, by Bangalore.
