Good morning, Bengaluru!
🪔 On account of the Diwali festival, we are taking an extended break this weekend. We will be back with the next edition on Wednesday. Happy Diwali!
🌧️ Today’s weather: Generally cloudy with a couple of spells of rain.
🏠 Rent surge
Bengaluru sees unprecedented rent hike.
What’s it about? In 2023, Bengaluru experienced a steep climb in housing rents, with an increase of up to 31% reported by Anarock Property Consultants. The most significant rise was in Whitefield, where a typical 2BHK flat’s rent surged by 31%, and Sarjapur Road followed closely with a 27% increase.
- This spike in rents reflects a broader trend across major Indian cities post-pandemic.
- The rental market recovery is attributed to increased investor interest and residential demand.
Highest in India: The rental yield in Bengaluru is currently the highest among major Indian cities, standing at 4.35%, and is expected to grow further. Anuj Puri of ANAROCK predicts a continued rise in rents, particularly as the January to March period typically sees increased relocation for employment opportunities.
🛣️ Mangaluru-Bengaluru Corridor
Karnataka explores a new high-speed corridor to connect Mangaluru and Bengaluru.
What’s it about? In a move to enhance regional development, Karnataka’s ministers Dinesh Gundu Rao and Laxmi Hebbalkar engaged in preliminary talks with the European Business and Technology Centre to discuss the construction of a six to eight-lane high-speed corridor between Mangaluru and Bengaluru.
- The corridor aims to stimulate investment and industrial prosperity in Mangaluru, connecting it directly to Bengaluru and the New Mangalore Port.
- Detailed discussions on the project’s route and involvement are set to continue with Public Works Minister Satish Jarkiholi and Chief Minister Siddaramaiah.
Private partnerships: The proposed corridor is part of a strategic plan to drive sustainable development in Mangaluru, highlighting the need for private partnerships in the realization of such large-scale infrastructure projects.
🏢 New campus of Philips
Philips inaugurates an expansive Bengaluru innovation hub.
What’s it about? Philips has expanded its Indian footprint with a new innovation campus in Bengaluru, which spans over 6.5 lakh square feet and can house more than 5,000 individuals.
- The Bengaluru site represents Philips’ comprehensive business segments and has been instrumental in healthcare advancements.
- The new facility underscores Philips’ dedication to leveraging Indian talent for worldwide impact.
CEO speak: Philips’ CEO Roy Jakobs highlighted the campus’ role in enhancing healthcare and wellness innovation, reflecting the company’s commitment to growing its Indian operations and serving global customers.
💢 Comic Con Bengaluru 2023
Bengaluru Comic Con 2023 ignites fan passions, weaving a vibrant pop culture tapestry from comics to cosplay.
What’s it about? Bengaluru Comic Con 2023 is set to bring together a diverse array of fans to celebrate the rich tapestry of pop culture. The event, backed by Maruti Suzuki Arena and CrunchyRoll, marks the 11th edition of this extravaganza, unfolding from November 17 to 19, 2023, as told by Jatin Varma, the founder of Comic Con India.
- The convention has grown from its modest beginnings in 2011 to become a cornerstone event for fandoms across various genres.
- The 2023 event promises an inclusive and diverse experience, extending beyond comics to embrace manga, anime, and superhero movies.
Growing in strength: Varma noted the event’s growth and the pivotal role of social media in increasing the audience’s scope and diversity. Reflecting on the success of the Bengaluru chapter since its debut in 2012, he underlined the resilience of pop culture gatherings in the face of challenges, including the pandemic.
✨ Things to do…
Here are some fun and interesting things to do in the city over the weekend!
- Celebrate Diwali this weekend at Sunburn Union by indulging in delicious food, signature drinks, dancing and more.
- An immersive 30-hour course will help you master pottery at the Wheel and Potter Pottery Studio.
- Enjoy a fun-packed musical jam night at the Threatrenama Studios.
- Go on a blindfolded dinner date this weekend at SmallWorld.
- Laugh out loud at The 18+ Show hosted by Kishore and Kjeld.
🛋️ Local Lounge
Yesterday’s Poll Results:
- I believe in a 70-hour workweek: 7.7%
- I don’t believe in a 70-hour workweek: 92.3% 🏆
That’s it for today. Have a great weekend!