Good morning, Bengaluru!
🌫️ Today’s weather: High: 33 ℃ | Low: 19 ℃ | Mist.
🧐 Did you know? Thatte Idli, the flatter variant of the original Idli, originated in Bidadi, the industrial town on the outskirts of Bengaluru. Hence, the dish is sometimes called the Bidadi Thatte Idli.
📖 Book’s tribute to Bengaluru
Deepak Sridhar’s book “One & Half” offers an intimate look at Bengaluru’s evolution through personal anecdotes and observations.
What’s it about? As a longtime resident and self-proclaimed “Bangalore bar uncle,” Sridhar’s book delves into the city’s unique characteristics, from its cosmopolitan 90s vibe to its current tech and start-up culture. He explores the city’s relationship with the English language, autorickshaws, and its musical and educational institutions.
- The pandemic served as a catalyst for Sridhar’s writing journey, leading to the creation of his first book, “Home for the Hallidays,” which captures the zeitgeist of 2020.
- Sridhar’s approach to documenting Bengaluru is forward-looking, focusing on the city’s ongoing evolution rather than dwelling on nostalgia.
An endearing homage: “One & Half” is a homage to Bengaluru, capturing its essence through various phases of change. Sridhar’s narrative reflects a balanced perspective, acknowledging the city’s growth while cherishing its enduring quirks and temperate climate.
🔬 RRI Open Day Celebration
Raman Research Institute (RRI) plans to host an Open Day on February 28 in celebration of National Science Day.
What’s it about? The event, held at the Sadashivanagar campus from 9 am to 4.30 pm, welcomes students and science enthusiasts to explore ongoing research and activities. Over a thousand attendees from various educational institutions are expected.
- National Science Day marks the discovery of the Raman Effect, for which the institute’s founder, Professor CV Raman, received the Nobel Prize.
- Visitors can engage with experiments, hands-on activities, science models, and exhibits, and explore the Raman Museum and Archival Gallery.
Uncovering physics: RRI’s Open Day offers a unique opportunity to delve into the world of physics, covering areas such as astronomy, astrophysics, light and matter physics, soft condensed matter, and theoretical physics. It’s a chance to celebrate scientific achievements and inspire future research.
🖥️ Karnataka-Austria Tech Collaboration
Karnataka government and Austrian labour and economy ministry initiate negotiations to enhance technological and innovation ties.
What’s it about? The discussions, led by key representatives from both regions, aim to explore new frontiers in technology, innovation, and start-up programmes. Karnataka’s IT&BT Minister, Priyank M Kharge, highlighted Bengaluru’s potential in developing skilling programmes tailored to the Austrian market.
- Karnataka is keen on becoming a significant player in the technology arena with Austria, offering customised programmes and welcoming Austrian companies to collaborate.
- The state plans to open a centre of excellence for quantum computing to further strengthen the partnership.
Why Austria? Austria’s emerging quantum research ecosystem and its vibrant start-up landscape, with over 3,300 start-ups employing more than 30,000 people, provide a solid foundation for this collaboration. The partnership aims to leverage the strengths of both regions to foster innovation and technological advancements.
🏃 Austrian Minister’s Bengaluru Run
Austrian Minister of Labour and Economy, Martin Kocher, leads a morning run through Bengaluru’s streets during his official visit.
What’s it about? Accompanied by a diverse group of local runners and his team, Kocher embarked on a seven-km run from The Oberoi, MG Road, to Vidhana Soudha, showcasing the city’s landmarks. The route, designed by Arun Pai of Bangalore Walks, highlighted the historical and cultural facets of Bengaluru, including Ulsoor Lake, Cubbon Park, and Shivajinagar’s religious sites.
- The run provided Kocher with a unique perspective of Bengaluru, blending the city’s military and civilian zones.
- Kocher, known for running in cities he visits, described the experience as “unmatched” and appreciated the diverse landscapes of Bengaluru.
Advocating trade: The minister’s visit aimed at exploring partnership opportunities with Karnataka. In his reflections, Kocher emphasised the importance of accessible education for socioeconomic development and advocated for positive trade relationships between countries.
📊 Today’s Poll
(Only subscribers can participate in the polls)
Are you a single child to your parents?
- I am a single child.
- I’m not a single child.
❓ Today’s Question
(Only subscribers can submit their answers)
Which subject did you like the most in college?
Reply to this email with your answers.
🗞️ In other news…
- Starting March 29, IndiGo will introduce daily direct flights connecting Bengaluru with Denpasar in Bali, Indonesia.
- Since 2022, Digi Yatra has been utilised by 1.4 crore passengers, with Bengaluru and Delhi recording the highest numbers.
- The Karnataka Assembly has passed a bill reducing the penalty on property tax in Bengaluru by 50 percent.
- Bengaluru’s traffic chief, a former techie, is relying on AI to alleviate the city’s traffic congestion.
- A technical issue disrupted Namma Metro services on the Purple Line.
🛋️ Local Lounge
Yesterday’s Poll:
- I have written a love letter: 11.1%
- I’ve never written a love letter: 88.9% 🏆
Answers to Yesterday’s Question:
Given the experience you have now, what advice would you give to your 10-year-old self?
Simon: “Shit happens, but don’t take it personally. Most importantly, buy Bitcoin in 2010!”
That’s it for today. Have a great day!