Malleswaram in Bengaluru wakes up to joy as Happy Streets returns

Bengaluru: The usually bustling Malleswaram 8th Cross turned into a traffic-free stretch for fun, laughter, music, and colour on Sunday morning as residents gathered for the Times of India Happy Streets. From yoga mats to paintbrushes, the three-hour carnival offered a rare slice of leisure in the middle of the city, where neighbours, friends, and families mingled and played together. From 6.30am to 9.30am, the street came alive with rhythm and cheer. On-stage sessions of yoga and zumba drew early risers, while a high-energy drum jamming performance set the pace for the morning. The World Music Conservatory filled the air with melodies, and DJ Youngskull (David Johnson) switched between Bollywood, hip-hop, and EDM, keeping dancers of all ages on their feet. Art and creativity had their moment too. Ovya Art Academy's hands-on craft corner buzzed with colour, while Prathima Rangolis turned sections of the road into intricate floor art. "We want to awaken creativity among the public and give people a space to let their thoughts flow and express their emotions through art. Art is not just a piece — it is a blend of motion, creativity, and emotion," said Sangeetha Srikishen, founder of Ovya Art Academy. Interactive stalls added a dash of learning and sustainability to the mix. The Chamundi Scout Group introduced children to science-based games and the upcoming Jota Joti event in Oct, while MITU Foundation's "Earthlings" initiative demonstrated upcycling — turning old fabric into reusable drawstring bags for the upcoming Kadlekai Parishe 2025 and converting worn streamers into bright garlands.Presented by Bhima Jewellers, Happy Streets blended fitness, music, arts, crafts, and eco-friendly innovation into one lively community event. For Malleswaram residents, it was more than a Sunday outing, it was a reminder of how joyful city spaces can become when reclaimed by people instead of traffic. Quote Boxes:It is a great initiative. I was a resident of Malleswaram since childhood and have been visiting the area regularly with my family even after moving out. We hope Happy Streets is organised in our locality too— Latha Agarwal | Nagarbhavi resident We didn't want to miss the fun this time. We attended the earlier edition on Sampige Road. My granddaughter and the neighbour's daughter had a blast, playing games and participating in other activities. We even told our friends about it.— Asha Shantharam's family & neighbour (G Shantharam, Nikhil KS, and Dilip MA) | MalleswaramI heard the sounds of celebration and activity early in the morning. My father also told me about it, so I thought I'd check it out. Events that bring the neighbourhood together are always interesting.— Eashwar BK | Malleswaram resident I came with my daughter, but I'm more excited than she is. The event has activities for both children and adults. I even played with Buguri (spinning top toy). It's a motivation for people to get up early and head out on a Sunday.— Ravindranath Rajappa | Vidyaranyapura residentI visited the event with my father, and we had a fantastic time. Among the many activities, we enjoyed a friendly game of carrom with two fellow visitors. It was a great experience.— Sneha Patil | Basaweshwarnagar residentIt was a lot of fun, and I especially enjoyed playing carrom with strangers. Since we live in Seshadripuram, we even visited the previous edition at Sampige Road.— Priya Kalra | Seshadripuram resident