For RJ Danish Sait, Bengaluru has a better sense of humour than Delhi & Mumbai

1 What makes Bengaluru tick?
I moved to Bengaluru four years ago. I came here with the idea of wanting to own the city. However, today the city owns a part of me. I am known for my prank calls with the local flavour. This city has a sense of humour unlike Delhi and Mumbai. People of all cultures and religions co-exist here harmoniously. It's a victory in itself.Bengaluru's weather is unparalleled. My mother grew up here.My grandfather Azeez Sait was a minister here. People in North India often say `Meri janmabhoomi Delhi aur karmabhoomi Mumbai hai'. But for me, both my janmabhoomi and karmabhoomi is Bengaluru.

2 What is your favourite Bengaluru moment?

I live through several favourite moments each day with the love I get from Bengalureans on my Facebook and Instagram accounts.Bengalureans are special. I travel a lot. Unlike Delhi or Mumbai, security at our airport will always try to help you in case you forgot the hand-baggage tag. I love the way citizens voluntarily help ease traffic in times of congestion. The natives are educated, well-travelled and define Bengaluru. It's incredible to see how the people have accepted Bengaluru's transition from a garden to a busy city it is today. People of all strata speak English, Hindi and Kannada. Bengalureans make people comfortable. India is known for its hospitality but Bengaluru has a big heart. This city truly lives and breathes the phrase `atithi devo bhava'.

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

I will get the roads right and do whatever it takes to ease the traffic. Mumbai too has horrible roads.But an observation I have made is that army camps are usually set up outside the city. However, in Bengaluru, it is in the heart. I don't think too much thought has gone into its planning. We cannot blame but we need to find solutions. I will also get the public transport system in better shape. Now that we have a 1-am night deadline, I would like to build a party place here like Clark Quay in Singapore.


Picture: Danish Sait (Facebook)

4 Who is your favourite Bengalurean? Why?

My favourite Bengalurean is my mother and all the people of her era. They have seen the best of both times -Old Bengaluru where we would reach any destination in seven minutes and the new busy city. They have grown with the times. It's always the younger generation that complains about the traffic. My mum's generation understands growth and moves with the times. My heart goes out to every Bengalurean of that era.

5 If not Bengaluru, which city? Why?

Whitefield is my first preference (laughs). Located in the back of beyond, you perhaps need a visa to get there. I have heard enough about its flora and fauna, and leopards often taking to the roads. I would like to experience it. On a serious note, I would probably stay in Hyderabad and Mumbai which offer me much work.