Branding Bhopal: A City Close to My Heart

Branding usually brings companies or products to mind—but what about cities?

For my Branding & Promotion course, I challenged myself to rebrand something deeply personal: my hometown, Bhopal. Growing up as a bit of a nomad, I’ve lost count of the number of times I’ve had to explain where Bhopal is. The conversation often loops back to the Bhopal Gas Tragedy or blank stares from those unfamiliar with the city at all.

But Bhopal is so much more than its past. It's a city of serene lakes, centuries-old heritage, craft traditions, and cultural richness that remains largely untold. Despite its beauty and potential, it continues to fly under the radar.

This project is my way of changing that narrative.

Over the course of six months, I developed a new brand identity for Bhopal that reflects its vibrancy, resilience, and promise. My goal was to present Bhopal not just as a place, but as an experience—one that welcomes everyone with open arms.

I’ve been lucky to visit many cities—including Copenhagen, often called the happiest city in the world. Yet nothing makes me feel more at home, more inspired, or more alive than Bhopal. Yes, I’m biased—but that’s exactly why this project mattered so much to me.

Cities aren’t just places—they’re stories waiting to be told.
And this is the story of Bhopal, as I see it.