The Tamil Diaspora in Bengaluru: Fact and Fiction
It's a common perception that many Tamilians choose to settle in Bengaluru rather than in their home city, Chennai. However, the truth behind this phenomenon is nuanced.
Reasons for Choosing Bengaluru
For many Tamil immigrants, especially those in the tech sector, Bengaluru—also known as Bangalore—presents a unique allure. This vibrant city has long been a magnet for IT professionals due to its rich tradition of software and tech companies.
The city offers a thriving job market and ample opportunities for career growth. Moreover, many companies, particularly those in the IT sector, actively post their employees in Bengaluru and Mysuru. This can be attributed to the city's proximity to major technology hubs in India.
Returning to Chennai
It's also true that many of these professionals, after spending significant time in Bengaluru, eventually return to Chennai. There are several reasons for this. For one, many Tamilians prioritize staying close to their families, friends, and cultural roots. Additionally, Chennai offers a more relaxed and less stressful lifestyle, as well as a wealth of top-notch institutions for education and healthcare.
Climate and Comfort Considerations
The climate plays a notable role in migration patterns. Some Tamilians find the hot and humid conditions in Bengaluru uncomparable to the milder weather in Chennai. Consequently, they often choose to settle in Chennai for its more pleasant climate and lifestyles.
The Role of Education and Job Market
It's important to recognize that the bulk of Tamil graduates from Tamil Nadu (TN) are employed in other states, particularly Bengaluru. This is not because they prefer Bengaluru over other states, but due to the high demand for their skills and the limited job market within TN.
According to all accepted surveys and statistics, TN universities, especially its technical institutes, produce nearly 2.5 lakh IT-ready graduates annually. This is the largest pool of skilled manpower in India. However, many of these capable graduates are not absorbed by the job market in TN.
As a result, companies from across India actively engage with TN's technical graduates for hiring. Many of these graduates are then posted in various states including Karnataka (particularly Bengaluru and Mysuru), Maharashtra (Mumbai and Pune), Telangana (Hyderabad), and others.
Personal Experiences and Cultural Factors
My own experience as a Tamilian from Chennai, who lived in Bengaluru during 1970-74, is a testament to the varied reasons behind migration. I initially moved there for work, but missed home when I returned to Chennai. The strong ties to family, friends, and the sea, along with the unique charm of Chennai's marina, drew me back despite the benefits of living in Bengaluru.
However, many other Tamilians settle in Bengaluru for the professional opportunities, but often find themselves drawn back to Chennai due to social and cultural factors. These individuals may invest in property, start businesses, or simply stay due to the comfort and familiarity of their hometown.
Conclusion
The choice to settle in Bengaluru or Chennai among Tamilians is complex and multifaceted. While many may be initially attracted to the job market and lifestyle in Bengaluru, their decisions are often influenced by a range of personal, cultural, and professional factors.