Karnataka is a state in southwest India with Arabian Sea coastlines. Originally known as theState of Mysore, it was renamedKarnatakain 1973.The capital, Bengaluru (formerly Bangalore), is a high-tech hub known for its shopping and nightlife.
With an antiquity that dates to thepaleolithic, Karnataka has been home to some of the most powerfulempires of ancient and medieval India. The philosophers and musical bards patronised by these empires launched socio-religious and literary movements which have endured to the present day. Karnataka has contributed significantly to both forms of Indian classical music, theCarnaticandHindustanitraditions.