West Bengal is a state in eastern India. West Bengal has a diverse geography that includes the Himalayan mountain ranges in the north, the fertile Gangetic plains in the south, and the Sundarbans mangrove forest in the southwest. The state is crisscrossed by several rivers, with the Ganges being the most prominent. est Bengal has a vibrant culture with a strong emphasis on literature, music, dance, and the arts. It is the birthplace of famous poets and Nobel laureates like Rabindranath Tagore. The state is also known for its traditional dance forms like Kathak and various styles of folk music.
Rashbehari Ghosh, a prominent Bengali advocate and philanthropist, defied English authority and excelled in the field of law. He opposed the partition of Bengal, supported the Swadeshi movement, and championed technical education, leaving a lasting impact on Indian society. He established educational institutions and supported scientific endeavors. His legacy as a nationalist and freedom fighter endures through institutions like Jadavpur University.
The Kartabhaja sect, a prominent aspect of Bengal's religious landscape, symbolized rebellion against social hierarchies. While embodying an inclusive faith and egalitarian principles, it later transitioned into Satima Dharma. Ghoshpara's demographic shifts, influenced by historical events like Partition and British rule, significantly impacted the sect's evolution and syncretic nature.
Sir Rajendra Nath Mookerjee, born in the 19th century, was a visionary architect and engineer whose contributions transformed Kolkata’s skyline. He co-founded Martin & Company, leading to landmark projects like the Howrah Bridge and Victoria Memorial. Mookerjee also co-founded IISCO, integral to India's steel industry. Despite his significant achievements in engineering, sports, and academia, he remains largely unacknowledged in history, highlighting the need for his legacy to be celebrated.
Long before telegraph wires crisscrossed India, messages once leapt across the sky — tower to tower — through an ingenious system of wooden arms and coded light. Scattered across Bengal, Bihar, and Jharkhand, the forgotten semaphore towers tell a fascinating story of early communication, colonial ingenuity, and human ambition to bridge distance through vision and precision.
Kolkata's street food is an inseparable part of the city's character, rich in flavors like phuchka and jhal muri. Adi Haridas Modak, near Shyambazar, serves as a nostalgic meeting point, offering classic Bengali breakfasts like kochuri and chholar daal. With a history stretching over 250 years, it embodies authenticity and cultural heritage, where every meal transcends mere sustenance, nurturing connections and memories among generations.
Our final day in Darjeeling was filled with exploration, starting at Ghum Railway Station, the highest in India. We visited the Old Ghum Monastery and Batasia Loop, marveling at their histories. The day culminated in the vibrant Chowrasta square before dining at Glenary's, leaving us with cherished memories of this enchanting region.
The journey through Tinchuley and Lamahatta in North Bengal was an extraordinary experience. Tinchuley, renowned for its tea gardens and stunning views, showcased its involvement with the World Wildlife Federation. Peshok Tea Estate and the Lovers Meet Viewpoint provided breathtaking scenery and historical significance, while Lamahatta offered a serene haven for nature enthusiasts.
Takdah unfolded before us like a whispered secret—mist-draped hills, colonial bungalows, and a warmth that felt like home. At Rose Villa Heritage Homestay, the Lama family’s kindness wrapped around us as gently as the mountain fog. Our days flowed with quiet walks, fragrant tea, and stories etched into timeless landscapes. Takdah didn’t just soothe us—it changed us.
In the bustling alleys of Sarojini Nagar, New Delhi, the enchanting tradition of Bahurupis reflects India's cultural fabric. These transformative performers, rooted in ancient folklore, mesmerise audiences with their mythological portrayals and captivating storytelling. However, this vibrant art form is declining under urbanisation and modern distractions. Despite challenges, dedicated Bahurupis strive to preserve their craft, reminding us of the significance of cultural heritage and human connection through art, transformation, and shared narratives.
Nobody is quite sure how Chowringhee, one of Kolkata’s most iconic roads, got its name. Chowringhee, not quite an arterial road but one of the city’s longest thoroughfares today, connects two parts of the city — Kalighat and Dharmatolla — to each other. Chowringhee is one of the best addresses in Kolkata. It still oozes of the imperial heritage. The building nearby are majestic and imposing and reminds of the British raj.
