When OpenAI CEO Sam Altman recently turned to X, soliciting prompts from users to convert text into video using the experimental tool Sora, the response was nothing short of overwhelming, with thousands flooding in with their requests.
Bengaluru’s Urban Quirk Amplified
Among the respondents was “Peak Bengaluru,” a prominent X account dedicated to showcasing all things related to the startup hub of India. Known for amplifying and commenting on the eccentricities of Bengaluru, the account had a distinct request for Altman: a video visualisation of the fully completed Ejipura flyover, situated in the southern part of the city.
The Legend of the “Bangalore Stonehenge”
For nearly seven years, the Ejipura flyover, near the upscale Koramangala locality, has remained unfinished, earning the moniker “Bangalore Stonehenge” from users on Google Maps. It stands as a haunting testament to the challenges of urban planning in the city.
“Fully completed Ejipura flyover with vehicle movement,” Peak Bengaluru penned on X, responding to Sam Altman’s prompt.
Internet Banter Ignites
The post sparked a wave of online amusement, with users joining in with their own Bengaluru-themed prompts for Sora, fueling the digital banter even further.
From Viral Photos to Virtual Realities
Last July, a photo of the Ejipura flyover went viral after street lights were finally installed on its pillars. The flyover, initially conceived to bridge the gap between Ejipura and Madiwala, was intended to alleviate traffic congestion and enhance connectivity. However, since its initiation in 2017, progress on the project has been minimal.
As Bengaluru continues to navigate the complexities of urban development, the whimsical request for a completed Ejipura flyover video serves as a reminder of both the city’s challenges and its resilient spirit.
