Bengaluru gears up for ‘BLR Hubba,’ showcasing South Asia's cultural dynamism from November 30

Bengaluru is set to host the second edition of BLR Hubba, an expansive arts and culture festival designed to elevate the city’s identity as South Asia’s cultural hub. Spanning 16 days from November 30, the festival will feature over 500 events, inspired by global celebrations like the Edinburgh Fringe Festival.

Also read: Bengaluru: 10-day ‘Unboxing Bengaluru Habba 2023’ fest to begin from December 1

The name "BLR Hubba" reflects the city’s multifaceted identity. Derived from Bengaluru’s airport code, "BLR" symbolizes its dual essence—modern Bangalore and traditional Bengaluru—while "Hubba," a playful twist on the Kannada word for festival, highlights its position as a hub for technology, arts, and culture.

Organized by the Unboxing BLR Foundation, co-founded by Prashanth Prakash and Malini Goyal, the festival aims to transcend Bengaluru’s reputation as a tech capital. The foundation, a non-profit rooted in urban conservation and cultural promotion, views BLR Hubba as its flagship endeavor to spotlight the city’s creative and heritage-rich narrative.

This year’s expanded edition includes 10 categories such as music, theatre, heritage, and technology. Approximately 70% of the events will be free, offering accessibility to the community. Iconic venues like Freedom Park, CV Raman’s ancestral home, and the National Gallery of Modern Art will host a blend of local ethos and global artistry.