That feeling of home

Having lived in the Northeastern part of the country for most of their lives, Biswatosh Bhattacharjee and his wife Evan A Shangpliang were clear about which city to move when they had to relocate. Bengaluru was their natural choice because they knew its weather and culture is similar to what it is back home.

It has been two years since the couple shifted to the city and they say that every day has offered them interesting insights and experiences. They feel that they have settled in the city and have adapted to its culture pretty well.
"Bengaluru is the city of opportunities and is the best for those who are career-driven and ambitious. The warmth of the people, good infrastructure, active nightlife, the presence of a large biking community and security were some of the factors that prompted us to choose this city," says Biswatosh.

The first few months in every new city throw up a host of challenges and Biswatosh says that he too had his share of problems. "There are plenty of job opportunities here but it is hard to find them unless there is a vacancy. It is also a challenge to spot the right kind of job. Only those who are competent will find good jobs," observes Biswatosh. He also says that he had a tough time moving around the city.

The couple is impressed with the cosmopolitan culture of the city. "You find people from across the world living here and the localities are more than welcoming to migrants. This culture makes it easier for the migrants to adapt to everything here and feel at home," he adds.

Weekends are reserved for exploring the city's gourmet culture and for short trips.  "The city has good eating joints and a vast biking community. I am a Bengali, so I am always on the look for Bengali food and I am never disappointed," says Biswatosh.

The many friends the couple has made over the last one year have helped them feel one with the city. "I am an avid biker but I am a reserved person. So joining 'RD 350 Club' helped me break out of my shell. There are so many biking enthusiasts here and I have managed to make friends with some like-minded people," he says.

Biswatosh and Evan enjoy the breakfast rides with the group and sometimes ride to the outskirts of the city. "We have covered almost all the restaurants in and around South Bengaluru and are still looking at completing a couple more," he adds.

Every Bengalurean has to deal with never-ending traffic jams and Biswatosh feels a well-planned infrastructure is a key to solving the city's traffic snarls. "The traffic management must be improved because it is tough to move around the city during peak hours."

Is there a place that the couple enjoy riding to? "We enjoy our rides to Nandi Hills because it is free of potholes and we also love this place because we can watch the sunrise," Biswatosh signs off.