Sadashivanagara was created out of the former royal gardens, and is home to one of the original four towers built in 1597 by Kempe Gowda I, the founder of the city.
In the 1960s and early 1970s, the gardens of the Bangalore Palace (a summer home of the Wodeyar dynasty of Mysore) were converted into a residential neighborhood, and this was when the first lots in Sadashivanagara were purchased. Until the 1990s, Sadashivanagara was known as "Palace Orchards," as it was built in the former royal grounds. It was renamed in honor of Karnad Sadashiva Rao, a freedom fighter and philanthropist.
Even today, homes in the Raj Mahal Vilas Extension (built in the wing formerly known as Upper Palace Orchards) are situated right opposite what is left of the official palace grounds. Many highly placed government officials, ex-governors, film stars and millionaire businessmen have bought homes in the neighborhood. The neighborhood is also home to various Wodeyar royals.
Along with the adjacent older, neighborhood of Malleswaram, the atmosphere in Sadashivanagara is Old Bangalore and therefore somewhat different from Bangalore's customary stereotype as a young, modern, and contemporary city. The majority of the residents come from old families and try to preserve tradition and heritage. Until the mid-2000s, it was the custom in Sadashivanagara to shun ostentatious displays of wealth and cultivate unassuming, modest manners. This culture is typical of old Bangalore society.
However, such qualities are slowly changing as new families from different backgrounds move into the neighborhood.
The Sadashivanagara area runs from Mehkri Circle in the north to Bashyam Circle a little way south. A less expensive area once known as Lower Palace Orchards spills over and partially surrounds the Bashyam Circle. Sadashivanagara borders the Sankey Tank, a midsized lake on the edge of which are several large homes. A trail runs along the circumference of the lake and is sometimes used by residents for exercise.
To reduce pollution of the natural water bodies, the Civic Authority has constructed an artificial tank for immersion of Ganesha during the famous Ganesha Chathurthi festival. There are also a few small parks in Sadashivanagara.
