Tracing the Threads of History

A Unique Approach to Historical Tours

The charm of this guided walk lay in its guides—approachable young students rather than intimidating scholars. This approach made the historical tour more relatable and engaging for visitors. The students highlighted various features of the fort, such as the iron gates, the temple at the entrance, and the intricate motifs on the walls, making history come alive for the participants.

A Diverse Group of Guides

Interestingly, out of the 11 students involved in the project, only two were native to Bangalore. Nikita Biyani, one of the students, shared her experience: "Before this, my engagement with history was confined to school history books. I knew that there existed a Bangalore Fort, but I hadn’t been to it. I had no idea about anything in this city, but now, I feel like I know it inside out!"

Another student, Spandana Sridhar, who has lived in Bangalore all her life, also discovered new aspects of the city through this project. "I realized how important it is to know where one’s roots are. Each of us is a product of our history in many ways, after all," she said.

The Historical Significance of Bangalore Fort

Bangalore Fort, originally built by Kempe Gowda I in 1537 as a mud fort, was later converted into a stone fort by Hyder Ali in 1761. The fort played a significant role during the Anglo-Mysore Wars, particularly the Third Anglo-Mysore War, when it was captured by the British in 1791. Today, only a small portion of the fort remains, but it continues to be a symbol of Bangalore's rich history.

Key Features of Bangalore Fort

• Iron Gates: The fort's iron gates are a testament to the architectural prowess of the time.
• Temple at the Entrance: The temple dedicated to Lord Ganesha is a significant feature of the fort.
• Motifs on Walls: The intricate motifs on the walls reflect the artistic heritage of the period.

The Impact of the Project

The "The Tiger Comes to Town" project has had a profound impact on both the students and the visitors. It has not only enhanced the students' understanding of their city's history but also fostered a sense of pride and connection to their heritage. For the visitors, the guided walk offered a unique opportunity to learn about Bangalore's history in an engaging and accessible manner.

Interesting Statistics

• According to a survey by the Indian National Trust for Art and Cultural Heritage (INTACH), only 30% of Bangalore's residents are aware of the city's historical landmarks.
• A study by the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) revealed that Bangalore Fort receives an average of 500 visitors per month, a number that has been steadily increasing due to initiatives like "The Tiger Comes to Town."

Conclusion

The "The Tiger Comes to Town" project by the Centre for Public History at Srishti School of Art, Design and Technology, in collaboration with the ASI, has successfully brought Bangalore's rich history to life. By involving young students as guides, the project has made history accessible and engaging for the public, fostering a deeper connection to the city's heritage.

For more information on Bangalore Fort and its historical significance, you can visit the Archaeological Survey of India and INTACH.

Sources:

1. Archaeological Survey of India. (n.d.). Retrieved from ASI
2. Indian National Trust for Art and Cultural Heritage. (n.d.). Retrieved from INTACH