Some states (e.g. Gujarat, Mizoram) in India are essentially "dry"; alcohol is banned offically. However, this is not the case in Karnataka (and especially in Bangalore). Pubs and bars are found almost everywhere though all establishments have to close by 2330hrs. Note that it is also illegal to drink while walking along the streets (recall Cedar Rapids and Seattle), but I don't think this is strictly enforced (or maybe I don't care).

There are also the so-called "liquor shops" selling shelves of hard liquors and beer (not wine). Although these shops can only legally sell the golden moonshine (customers are not allowed to drink in its premises), there is often a corner (usually behind the shop) where one can have a drink. While I was buying a Kingfisher (Rs65 per a 650ml bottle) one day, a motorist (still wearing his helmet) got down from his motorcycle and murmured something to the shop attendant. The shop attendant turned back and reached out for a bottle, pour a shot of "god-knows-what" whisky and mixed it with 7-up. The motorcyclist downed the mixture in a gulp, left Rs30 on the table and left; all was done within 15 secs. Now, this is what I call a quick fix.

I didn't stay in Bangalore for the entire 7 weeks; was fortunate enough to go for a one-day study visit in Mumbai. Though it wasn't eventful, I had the opportunity (while we drove past a slum that was just beside the airport) to see kids defecating on a muddy street with the evening sun as the background. Not that I particularly enjoy viewing poverty in the masses, but I still felt the strong urge for kicking myself while I didn't stop there for a picture.