Bengaluru is celebrated as the perfect blend of rooted culture and upscale modernity, offering a unique range of experiences for every kind of explorer. From lush green parks to tech parks and coffee breweries to beer breweries, the city has something fun for almost everyone. In this kaleidoscope, several women have become key contributors, transforming the cultural and social landscape with their innovation and leadership.
SheThePeople has curated a list of places to visit and activities to try, showcasing the plethora of talent and vision of women who have shaped Bengaluru into the vibrant hub it is today. Whether you are a traveller looking for a guide or a true-blue Bengalurean re-exploring your city, we have got you covered.
Indian Music Experience Museum: Preema John, Director
The Indian Music Experience (IME) prides itself on being India's first interactive music museum, showcasing artefacts, instruments, and the works of maestros who have weaved India's cultural fabric. Preema John, Director of IME Museum, is a curator and researcher who brings a wealth of knowledge and experience having worked across several art exhibits and museums in India and abroad.
Location: JP Nagar, 7th Phase
Champaca: Women-Run Bookstore
Champaca, a quaint little bookstore and cafe, is nothing less than a paradise. Nestled amidst lush greenery, it offers an escape from the rigamarole of the outside world. Apart from the delicious coffee, congenial staff, and warm interiors, the bookstore/workspace also welcomes you with adorable cats! It is led by Radhika Timbadia, Proprietrix; Nirica Srinivasan, Bookseller; and Kavya Murthy, Editor & Curator, among other lovely women.
Location: Vasanth Nagar
Museum of Art and Photography: Arnika Ahldag, Head of Curation & Exhibition
Located in the heart of Bengaluru, the Museum of Art and Photography (MAP) is an engrossing 6-storey gallery that showcases paintings, sculptures, textiles, photographs, popular culture, and more. Beyond this, they are also dedicated to curating interactive experiences, urban beautification, and outreach programs. The leaders at MAP include Arnika Ahldag, Head of Curation & Exhibition; Pallavi Agarwala, Head of Design; and Carolina Artegiani, Head of Development and Inclusion among others.
Location: Kasturba Nagar (Near Cubbon Park, Vittal Mallya Road exit)
Nrityagram: Surupa Sen, Artistic Director
Nrityagram is a classical dance school and community that provides a glimpse into the rich traditions and art forms of India. Founded by revered Odissi dancer Protima Bedi in 1990, this institute is a haven for the preservation and propagation of Indian dance. The lush greenery and phenomenal architecture are also standout features of this sanctuary. Presently, it is led by Surupa Sen, Artistic Director, who has been a guiding force at Nrityagram for several decades.
Location: Hesaraghatta
The Rameshwaram Cafe: Divya Raghavendra Rao, Co-Founder
It wouldn't be a Bengaluru guide without mentioning The Rameshwaram Cafe, the city's recent favourite fast food joint. From piping hot coffee to ghee-laden thatte idlis, the eatery is a go-to spot for lovers of authentic South Indian delicacies. Founded by Divya Rao and her husband Raghavendra Rao, it has become a celebration of Bengaluru as it blends trusted tradition with meteoric entrepreneurial spirit.
The Rameshwaram Cafe has various locations.
Tufting Studio BLR: Anjali, Tufting Instructor
If you are looking for a fun, unique activity, we know just the place for you -- Create your own rugs at Tufting Studio BLR! Visitors can design and weave their own rugs from scratch, offering an engaging and creative hands-on experience. You can go with your friends, partner, family, or even solo! The instructor, Anjali, is a passionate and supportive guide who will ensure your creative vision is brought to life.
Location: Langford Town
Ms and Mrs All-Women's Lounge: Ankitha Shetty, Founder
Ms and Mrs Ladies Lounge is known as India's first women-only lounge where customers can enjoy a luxurious and safe experience. From enjoying the delicious food and drinks and dancing to catchy tunes to getting your nails done, this lounge is the perfect place for women to sit back and relax with their gal pals! It was founded by Ankitha Shetty, a successful serial entrepreneur in the hospitality space.
Location: Bannerghatta Road
Mountain Bee Kombucha: Honey Islam, Founder
Mountain Bee is a zero-waste kombucha taproom on a mission to create gut-friendly and sustainable beverages as well as memorable experiences. They not only brew delicious kombucha but also engage their customers in activities like brewing workshops, tasting sessions, and more. It was founded by Honey Islam, a kombucha educator and fermentation consultant.
Location: Indiranagar
The Kind Roastery And Brew Room: Pallavii Gupta, Founder
This isn't just a regular cafe; this is a space designed to forge connections. Founded by Pallavii Gupta, The Kind Roastery and Brew Room is a coffee house and co-working space that is all about enjoying the sacred experience of manual brews and house-blend espressos. It is built for visitors to embrace the 'slow life'. The Kind also has a range of decadent desserts and irresistible snacks in vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and Jain options.
The Kind has several locations.
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