For film-maker Pawan Kumar, cricket coach Anil Kumble is the perfect Bengalurean!

A candid chat about what makes Bengaluru a favourite city

1. What makes Bengaluru tick?

I have lived in all the metros of India but Bengaluru stands out because of its weather. I like the fact that it is neutral- not too hot, not too cold. The weather is what is keeping me here despite the entertainment industry being in Mumbai. I was born and raised in the city. So I feel a strong sense of connect and ownership with every development here. If it is a positive one, I feel proud and if it is negative, I feel responsible.

2. What is your favourite Bengaluru moment?

I am in love with the food culture here. I remember when I first visited MTR in Mavalli. I had always heard about this iconic restaurant while growing up but had never managed to go there. When I finally visited, I was 19 years old. I saw many people wait outside.They sat on a bench and were called in when a table was ready. It is then that I realised what was so special about the place -the unparalleled experience of waiting in line to be served, and eating food together with people from various backgrounds. Quality food is so affordable here. There are darshinis every few meters that serve the tastiest dishes.

3. If you were the dictator of Bengaluru, what is the first thing you would do?

I would invent a technology where honking becomes a prepaid service. So, whenever someone honks, they would be charged Re 1. That should be a good way to get people to reduce unnecessary honking on the streets. I would also make internet more powerful across the city so that people can lead a more convenient, connected life.


​ I would invent a technology where honking becomes a prepaid service. (Image:BCCL)

4. Who is your favourite Bengalurean? Why?

It has to be Anil Kumble. I am not a cricket fan but when I was growing up, almost half the cricket team seemed to be from Karnataka. It was such a proud feeling. Kumble is first in the list of of cricketers who had a very dignified, subtle, quiet personality. This, in many ways, mirrored the disposition of Bengalureans in general.

5. If not Bengaluru, which city? Why?

If not in Bengaluru, it certain has to be in the outskirts of Bengaluru, somewhere further down South! It's just that I feel so connected with the city that I don't think I'll be able to live anywhere else. Then again, I was in Mumbai for three years, so I might be able to survive there.