Tue Dec 23 05:35:56 UTC 2025: News Article:
Bengaluru Residents Recall Simpler Christmas Joys as City Evolves
Bengaluru, December 23, 2025 – As Christmas Eve approaches, long-time residents of Bengaluru reflect on how the city’s festive spirit has transformed over the decades. An article published today in The Hindu’s e-paper explores nostalgic memories of Christmas celebrations from the 1980s and 90s, contrasting them with the modern-day hustle and bustle.
The report paints a picture of a simpler time, where the scent of plum cake and fairy lights filled the air. Residents fondly recall informal gatherings at iconic spots like MG Road, Brigade Road, and Commercial Street, a stark contrast to today’s crowded streets and heavy traffic.
“In the ’80s, we used to walk to church in the chill midnight for mass, because hardly anyone in our area had a car back then,” recalls Jom James, a restaurant owner. Yamini Atmavilas, a fourth-generation Bengalurean, remembers her mother bringing back Koshy’s treats, such as nutty bars and rose cookies.
Anisha VT, a senior engineering manager, reminisces about the shared experience of discovering new pop songs on MTV, a thrill that she feels is missing in today’s digital age.
While the city’s landscape has undoubtedly changed, many residents still yearn for the gentle spirit of Christmas past. Sowmya Seetaram-Sagar expresses her desire to share the city’s Christmas traditions with her children, holding onto the hope that Bengaluru will one day regain its simpler charm.
First Piper 