Bengaluru, the IT Capital, has a rich history behind it. In the olden days, Bengaluru did not comprise all the infrastructure and buildings present today; it was lush green. Our ancestors who have lived in the city have an altogether different opinion as to what was old Bengaluru. The Gen-Zs have a different opinion as to what Bangalore is now.

While interviewing Kupsad, 58 years old, working in a government organization, he had a lot of differentiating opinions as to what was old Bengaluru and new Bangalore for him. In a conversation ask, how did you know Bengaluru and how do you see Bangalore now? This is what he had to say, I grew up in the city in the 1960s it was much quieter, more like a big town than a bustling city. Back then, it was known as the ‘Garden City of India’ with lush greenery everywhere, beautiful parks like Cubbon Park and Lalbagh, and much different weather than what we experience today. You could walk by the streets, and the air felt fresh and the same was less polluting. There was a certain charm to it calm, and peaceful, with lots of bicycles and scooters and ambassador cars which we do not get to see these days. It was a city where everyone knew each other, a close-knit community, with Kannada culture at its heart. The old bungalows, the tree-lined roads, and the smell of filter coffee at every corner, That's the Bengaluru I know."

When we asked about the traffic situation then and now you mentioned that there were very few vehicles on the road. Upon asking about mobility, he started mentioning that the buses present at that period were simple and there was not much rush, unlike the chaos we get to see these days.

Next talking to Aarav, a Gen–Z who is 24 years old and a gym trainer. “I do not remember much about ‘Bengaluru’ by the time I was born the city was turning into ‘Bangalore’, but I still remember my parents talking about how they miss the old Bengaluru. "Bengaluru is now a global hub, so there's a mix of cultures, languages, and lifestyles. You’ll see people from all over the world, and wherein we embrace everything—from Kannada traditions to Western trends. The number of restaurants, pubs, and nightclubs has exploded. Socializing today often means hanging out in malls, cafes, or tech hubs, or attending events. It’s very cosmopolitan now." As mentioned regarding the traffic scenario and cycling in Bangalore this is what he feels, "Haha, I can't even imagine cycling in the Bengaluru of today. The traffic is insane! It’s all cars, cabs, and bikes everywhere, and it feels like you spend half your day stuck in jams. The Namma Metro has helped a bit, but it's still a challenge to get anywhere on time. Now, most of us prefer booking a cab or riding scooters like Rapido or Ola, and public transport like BMTC buses is crowded. We don’t have the luxury of ‘taking it slow’ anymore. It's all about convenience and speed."

Asking how do you see Bengaluru’s social scene this is what Kupsad had to tell, "Well, in my time, Bangalore was much more local, I would say. We mostly interacted within our communities—Kannadigas, Tamilians, and a few others. Socializing meant visiting each other’s homes, attending local festivals like Kadalekai Parishe (groundnut fair), or going to classical music concerts at places like Chowdiah Memorial Hall. Eating out wasn’t common; we enjoyed homemade meals, and if we did go out, it was to traditional eateries or ‘tiffin rooms’ for dosa and filter coffee. Now, hearing about nightclubs and malls well, that's far removed from the Bangalore I knew."

Talking about the most important aspect, financial thoughts this is what Mr. Kupsad had to mention, “Ah, back in the day, Bangalore was an affordable city. The cost of living was quite low, and life wasn’t so expensive. You could buy land or a house at a reasonable price, and everyday expenses like groceries or eating out were quite minimal. My family managed with a modest income, and we lived comfortably. Salaries weren’t as high as they are today, but you didn’t need much to get by. There was no rush for luxuries; we focused on saving for the future. I remember buying our first house for a few thousand rupees. Looking at real estate prices now—it’s unthinkable."

On the same topic talking to Aarav, "Managing finances in Bengaluru today feels like a whole different ball game. The cost of living has skyrocketed. Rent, property prices, groceries, eating out, and even basic transportation are all expensive now. Especially for young people, rent can take a big chunk of our income, especially if you live in areas like Koramangala or Indiranagar. Buying property is almost out of reach for many of us I stay in PG and now they have increased the prices I think that I can move into a 1BHK instead of this hustle, people my age who stay in my PG mostly prefer renting apartments."

"As for salaries, tech jobs and startups pay well, but there’s also pressure to keep up with the city's expensive lifestyle. We’re always on the lookout for better financial opportunities because the city is full of potential, but it can also feel financially draining. Things like Uber rides, dining out, or even gym memberships add up quickly. Saving is tougher, and many of us rely on side hustles or freelance gigs to supplement our income."

Asking about how they both feel about how the city has changed this is what they had to say, "Bangalore was a small, cozy, and intimate place, full of gardens and culture. Now, Bengaluru is bigger, busier, and perhaps too fast for someone like me. But I suppose change is inevitable. I miss the old ways, but I understand that cities grow and evolve." "I never knew the Bangalore Mr. Kupsad describes, but Bengaluru today is exciting, with so much opportunity and energy. Of course, I wish things like traffic and pollution were better, but I feel proud to be part of a city that’s constantly reinventing itself. Bengaluru feels like it’s mine, and it’s always moving forward."

Food/ Cuisine is something that everyone enjoys and craves for. Let us have a look at how the old and new Bengaluru food situation was. In Old Bangalore, the city’s culinary scene was primarily centered on traditional South Indian food idlis, dosas, filter coffee, and local eateries or tiffin centers. Food was simple, homemade, and part of the local tradition.

Photo credit: AI-Generated

And in  New Bangalore: Today’s Bangalore offers a vast variety of global cuisines, with restaurants, cafes, pubs, and fine-dining establishments spread across the city. New Bangaloreans embrace everything from local street food to international gourmet, reflecting a more global dining culture.

Culture is the heart and soul of any city, reflecting its history, values, and the way its people live. In Bengaluru, culture is a blend of the old and the new, rooted in rich traditions yet constantly evolving with modern influences. Once a city is known for its deep connection to Kannada heritage, classical music, and local festivals, Bengaluru has transformed into a vibrant, cosmopolitan hub. The city's culture now encompasses both the warmth of its traditional customs and the energy of its growing, globalized population. This unique mix makes Bengaluru a dynamic place where past and present coexist, shaping a city that honors its roots while embracing new ideas and lifestyles. Reflecting upon the ideas, this is what Aarav said: “The rise of technology has played a huge role in changing Bengaluru’s culture. Today, people are more connected digitally than ever before, and culture is also consumed online—through streaming platforms, digital concerts, and social media. The city’s younger generation, particularly, engages with global trends through the internet, from pop culture to fashion, while still participating in traditional celebrations with family.

Source: Louise Marshal Source: AI-Generated

In conclusion, Mr. Kupsad and Aarav’s experiences show how much Bengaluru has changed financially over the years. For Mr. Kupsad, Bangalore was affordable, stable, and allowed for slow but steady financial growth, with property ownership being a common goal. Life was simpler, and saving for the future felt more manageable.

On the other hand, Aarav faces a fast-paced Bengaluru, where the cost of living is high, owning property is difficult, and financial planning is more about balancing short-term needs and long-term security. While there are many opportunities in tech and startups, there’s also more pressure to keep up. In today’s Bengaluru, younger generations must be more creative and flexible with their finances, navigating a city that’s full of promise but also expensive and competitive.

Source: AI-Generated

As it is the IT Capital of the city there are a lot of people mainly the younger generations who move into the city from other states to bring a kick start to their career and settle themselves. In conversation with our counterparts as well as the older generation let us see what opinions they hold regarding their perception of what 'Bengaluru ' and 'Bangalore' are. We have seen the major changes which have transformed the city.