One of the most visited religious sights and attractions in Bangalore, St. Mary's Basilica at Shivajinagar, never sees a dull day. Built in the year 1875, the church pays gratitude to Mother Mary who was believed to have cured the plague that struck the people residing in a village called Billi Akki Palli. She was thus called Annai Arokiamarie or 'Our Lady of Good Health' by the local people. The church in the 1800s had been subjected to vandalism when the structure was damaged. According to some stories, it is believed that they were unable to demolish the smaller statues and had been blinded by a flashing light. The church with its Gothic architecture and typical stained glass windows with a steep spire was built by a French man. Besides this, the premises also has a stall that sells religious books, articles, and souvenirs. The most famous event here is the annual feast that takes places in the month of September every year and is celebrated with great fanfare by the faithful.
Located in the area with street names such as Hospital Road and Dispensary Road, one wonders if it is some kind of a sign from God or just coincidental that Jamia Masjid is located there. All the way through the bylanes of Shivajinagar and amidst the flea markets and a hospital, it makes for a pretty sight. Pristine white paint interspersed with green, makes most tourists stand back for a minute to soak in this spectacular mosque. The facade is built of a green colored marble with its name engraved near the top.
The Visvesvaraya Industrial & Technological Museum was an initiative undertaken by the Ministry of Culture, and was set up in 1960 as an independent entity supported by the National Council for Science Museums. The museum is named after Sir Visvesvaraya, the great engineer who has to his credit the KRS dam and Mysore University to name a few. The museum focuses mainly on science and has exhibits that trace the history of engines, biotechnological revolution, dinosaur exhibits, and science for children. It has shows like the fascinating Taramandal Show which is popular and has a separate entry fee. There is also a small store within the premises that sells scientific toys for children. The museum is a fun place to stop at with the family.
Mahabodhi Loka Shanti Buddha Vihara is the venue for all the devotees of Lord Buddha to converge at. The seekers of knowledge and enlightenment gather here to gain a deeper insight of Gautama Buddha's teachings. Locally known as the 'Mahabodhi Society of Bangalore', this charitable organization was established after the mid 90's in Bengaluru, and it strives for the upliftment and welfare of society. There is a temple on the premises with a stone Stupa erected near its entrance. Spiritual and academic studies are conducted here regularly along with prayer sessions, meditation, chanting, talks, discourses, dhamma-studies and a lot more.
Built in the year 1970, the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru is a very famous cricket stadium in India that has stood testament to the Indian team's grit and winning spirit. A number of historic matches have been played here. The grounds have even hosted fixtures of the 'Cricket World Cup,' namely the 1987 Reliance World Cup and the 1996 Wills World Cup. It is one of the country's larger stadiums and covers vast grounds within its premises. To facilitate entry and also to manage the crowd better, there are separate gates for the 'Invitees,' 'Executives' or the 'Members.' Various stands called the 'Pavilion End' and the 'BEML End' can be reached through these gates. This stadium is located near Cubbon Park, which is located just across the road. The cricket matches played here are still fresh in the minds of the people of a cricket crazy nation.
With a history dating back to the 17th Century, St. Francis Xavier's Cathedral was built by French missionaries in India. The magnificent stone building with arched windows and white domes, make it a mesmerizing sight to behold. On stepping inside, there is an almost palpable peace and tranquility that prevails. Apart from many charitable activities, 'St. Anthony's and St. Rock's Primary School' too was built for the welfare of the community. The church conducts a number of events throughout the year. To organize these better, there is a youth center, conference hall and a parish hall too within the enclave. Just near the cathedral, is the Shrine of St. Anthony and St. Rock which is known to possess healing powers. So let your prayers be answered here, at the St. Francis Xavier's Cathedral in Cleveland Town.