Tag: Kolkata

Kolkata is the capital city of the Indian state of West Bengal. It is the cultural and educational hub of eastern India and is known for its rich history and diverse heritage. The city is known for its cultural heritage, including classical music, art, dance, and literature.

A Riverine Reverie: Discovering Kolkata from the Hooghly

On By Judhajit RoychoudhuryIn Journeys & Mindscapes12 Comments

Kolkata's rich cultural heritage is reflected through its landmarks such as the iconic Howrah Bridge and Hooghly River, both deeply intertwined with the city's history. The Hooghly river, a key distributary of the holy Ganga River, was vital for establishing several international trade settlements including the East India Company's base, Calcutta. Several sites of historic and cultural significance, including the Howrah Bridge, the Nimtala Crematorium, and Belur Math, reside along the river's banks, making a river cruise an immersive experience into Kolkata's past and present.

Nolen Gurer Ice Cream: A Taste of Bengal’s Heritage & Innovation

On By Indrajit Roy ChoudhuryIn Epicurean Mosaic13 Comments

On a summer day, I reminisced about a culinary adventure at Oh! Calcutta in Kolkata, where I first tasted Nolen Gurer Ice Cream, a delicacy that combines the rich flavor of Nolen Gur, a traditional Bengali jaggery. This creamy dessert, with its complex sweetness and artisanal preparation, represents the essence of Bengali cuisine, celebrating the region's heritage and seasonal treasures. Food, indeed, transcends sustenance.

Mutanabbi street

Al-Mutanabbi Street & College Street: Two Cultural Havens in Baghdad & Kolkata

On By Indrajit Roy ChoudhuryIn Cultural Currents29 Comments

Al-Mutanabbi Street in Baghdad, renowned as the "Book Market," embodies Iraq's literary spirit and history, dating back to the Abbasid era. It serves as a cultural hub for intellectuals and has shown resilience against adversity, including a tragic bombing in 2007. Similarly, Kolkata's College Street is a vibrant center for book lovers, fostering literary discussions and creativity across borders.

Lost in the Literary Labyrinth: My Day at the Kolkata Book Fair

On By Judhajit RoychoudhuryIn Cultural Currents3 Comments

Returning from Gangtok after exams, I joined my mom in Kolkata for her medical checkups and a visit to the Kolkata Book Fair. The fair, one of the world's largest, featured a wide range of books and publishers. We spent over four hours exploring pavilions and indulging in culinary delights. The vibrant event left me longing for more time to delve into the literary and artistic wonders.

Howrah Bridge: An Iconic Landmark of Kolkata

On By Indrajit Roy ChoudhuryIn Journeys & Mindscapes6 Comments

The Howrah Bridge, an engineering marvel of cantilever design, connects Kolkata and Howrah over the Hooghly River. Opened in 1943 and without major support pillars, it features 26,500 rivets and carries approximately 100,000 vehicles daily. More than a structure, it symbolizes homecoming and the bustling spirit of Kolkata. Despite being renamed Rabindra Setu, it remains iconic as the Howrah Bridge, evoking nostalgia for many.