JOIN USGrateful to the global city
It was better opportunities that brought Sunil Bhattacharjee from Jorhat, Assam to Bengaluru. The city which is now their home, helped him grow.
Sunil, who has settled here with wife Priyam, says that they are content here. He works as director (IT) in Electronics for Imaging, and Priyam Bortamuli heads the brand and marketing division of Fortis Hospitals. The couple stay here with their 10-month-old daughter Naysa.
Sunil, who graduated from Jorhat Engineering College says that his hometown has played a big role in shaping his character. “But, I am what I am now only after I moved to Bengaluru. The city took me up the ladder and I owe everything to this city.” He says that it turned out to be a fascinating experience. “Bengaluru is a global city. I was able to travel across the world only after I moved here. I owe all my experiences to ‘namma Bengaluru’.”
Sunil turns nostalgic while talking about his hometown. “We have an engineering college, an agricultural college and even a medical college in Jorhat now.” “I miss my family and friends there,” he adds.
Priyam who hails from Guwahati, did her studies till graduation in Assam. She then went to Delhi to pursue her education.
“It’s love that brought me here. I wanted to be with my then boyfriend and husband now, and though my family wasn’t happy about my moving, I convinced them that I would have to move here later, so why not then,” she says.
There were some initial glitches, but Priyam soon fell in love with the city. She is elated when she talks about her hometown to people here. “Many in Delhi were ignorant and asked me which part of South India Guwahati was. I was flabbergasted. It’s surprising how people know the different states in the US, but not in one’s own country. Bengalureans are more aware though. Many even have friends or family in Assam, which is endearing,” she says.
The best time to visit the state would be during the spring time say the couple. “March-April is the best time to be in Assam. Since it’s Bihu, there is a lot of festivities happening,” says Sunil. He points out the Assamese are a fun-loving lot. “Given the opportunity, people love to dance,” he says. Of the places to visit, back home, Kamakhya Temple is a must, says Priyam. “Umananda Temple, which is close to the Brahmaputra is another favourite spot among tourists. One has to take the ferry and climb the hill to reach there. Kaziranga National Park is the hot favourite now after the royal couple’s visit,” she says.
They also point out that people are very liberal in their thoughts in Assam. “We do not have the concept of dowry and many other things which are observed elsewhere,” says Priyam.
She adds that Guwahati has turned cosmopolitan over the years. “Not many people know this but our culture is rich for its literature, movies and theatre too,” she says.
“Assamese food specialities include duck curry and pigeon meat delicacies,” says Priyam. Sunil adds that fish is a big part of the traditional food. In Bengaluru, Sunil loves ‘idli’ and ‘dosa’ for breakfast. The couple are passionate foodies and frequent restaurants in Indiranagar, Koramangala and across the city. “We love the ‘100 ft Restaurant’, ‘Mamagoto’, ‘Smoke House Deli’ and ‘The Fisherman’s Wharf’,” he lists out. Before Naysa was born, the couple used to head out for a drive to the airport or longer when they had time to spare or during weekends.
“I would vouch that Bengaluru is the best place to live in, just for the people, who are loving and kind. I have had a chance to make many Kannadiga friends and spend time with their families,” she says.
“We can’t imagine relocating. Bengaluru is a beautiful city and has given us very special memories,” says Priyam. Sunil adds, “Even when I am away for a few weeks, I miss the city a lot. This is home now.”