WHITEFIELD, BENGALURU

Whitefield is one of Bengaluru’s most prominent localities, located in the eastern part of the city. Today, it is known as a major Information Technology (IT) corridor and residential hub. Home to multinational companies, technology parks, educational institutions, shopping centers, and modern infrastructure, Whitefield has become one of the most important economic centers in Bengaluru. However, the history of Whitefield dates back to the late nineteenth century, when it was established as a planned settlement for the Anglo-Indian community.

The story of Whitefield began in 1882 with David Emmanuel Starkenburgh White, the President of the Eurasian and Anglo-Indian Association of Mysore and Coorg. David White envisioned a self-sustaining agricultural settlement where members of the Anglo-Indian community could live, farm, and prosper. To bring his vision to life, he approached the Mysore Kingdom seeking land for the project. Recognizing the potential of this initiative, His Highness Maharaja Chamaraja Wadiyar X of Mysore granted approximately 3,900 acres of land in April 1882. The newly established settlement was named “Whitefield” in honor of its founder, David Emmanuel Starkenburgh White. During its early years, Whitefield was primarily an agricultural community. Residents cultivated crops such as ragi, millets, fruits, and vegetables. The area was characterized by vast green fields, orchards, colonial-style residences, and a peaceful rural environment. Unlike many settlements of the time, Whitefield was planned using a circular layout centered around an open community space known as the Village Green. This unique design became one of Whitefield’s defining features. By the 1920s, Whitefield had developed into a popular weekend retreat for residents of Bengaluru due to its pleasant climate and serene surroundings. For many decades, Whitefield retained its identity as a quiet agricultural and residential settlement. Transportation was limited, with only a few bus services connecting the area to Bengaluru city. The transformation of Whitefield began in the 1990s with the development of the International Tech Park Bangalore (ITPB). This landmark project attracted numerous multinational corporations and technology companies to the area. Today, Whitefield stands as one of India’s leading technology destinations and represents Bengaluru’s evolution into the Silicon Valley of India.

1882 David Emmanuel Starkenburgh White establishes Whitefield after receiving approximately 3,900 acres of land from Maharaja Chamaraja Wadiyar X. Early 1900s Growth of agricultural activities, churches, schools, and Anglo-Indian community institutions. 1920s Whitefield becomes a popular weekend getaway destination for Bengaluru residents. 1915 Meer Saheb General Stores is established, becoming one of the oldest surviving businesses in Whitefield. 1994 Development of International Tech Park Bangalore (ITPB) begins. 2000s Rapid urbanization and expansion of residential and commercial infrastructure. Present Day Whitefield emerges as one of India’s largest IT and business hubs.

By Metro Whitefield is connected through the Purple Line of Namma Metro. By Rail Nearest Station: Whitefield Railway Station By Air Nearest Airport: Kempegowda International Airport, Bengaluru Approximate Distance: 38 Kilometers By Road Whitefield is well connected through: • Whitefield Main Road • Old Madras Road • Varthur Road • Outer Ring Road