| 6 mins read
"Calcutta is not for everyone. You want your city clean and green, stick to Delhi. You want your city rich and impersonal, go to Bombay. You want them hi-tech and full of draught beer, Bangalore's your place. But if you want a city with a soul, come to Calcutta."
~ Vir Sanghvi
The capital of British India from 1772 to 1911, Kolkata played a pivotal role in India's struggle for independence. It was a hub of intellectual and cultural renaissance, fostering visionary figures like Rabindranath Tagore and Swami Vivekananda. This rich heritage over time transformed Kolkata into a captivating destination, offering a tapestry of stories, colonial architecture, and artistic treasures.
tourHQ brings you a recommendation of five must-have experiences that truly capture the essence of this fascinating city. Beyond the usual touristic attractions, these experiences allow you to feel the true emotions of the city.
Kumartuli - Explore The Artistic Abode
Tucked away in the heart of Kolkata, in the alleys of Kumartuli, lie countless artisans' studios, where skilled craftsmen engage in the centuries-old tradition of clay idol making. Every nook resonates with creative energy as artisans bring deities, mythological figures, and even contemporary personalities to life. This neighbourhood has also been honoured with the UNESCO (United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization) Award of Excellence for its outstanding clay idol-making craftsmanship! Moreover, not just clay idols, the neighbourhood also houses talented potters who produce exquisite terracotta sculptures.
What truly makes Kumartuli irresistible is the opportunity to witness the artisans in action. For an up-close experience, book a tour with a local guide and observe the artisans as they delicately mould clay and paint intricate details on the idols.
Tram Ride: Experience the Daily Kolkata Life
Taking a tram ride in Kolkata is not merely a means of getting around; it is an immersive cultural experience that connects you with the pulse of the city. For the people of Kolkata, trams are an integral part of their daily routines. Commuters from different backgrounds rely on trams for their daily commute, weaving through the city's streets amidst the hustle and bustle of everyday life. As you rumble along the tracks, you will witness the ebb and flow of daily activities, from street vendors selling their wares to children playing in narrow alleys. It is also a unique way to get intimate views of Kolkata's architectural gems and historical landmarks, such as the Howrah Bridge (Kolkata’s signature landmark built over the Hooghly River), Victoria Memorial (a museum showcasing the exemplary colonial architecture), and the Indian Museum (one of the oldest and largest museums in the world).
Do you know about the tram library?
Kolkata's tram system is home to a unique initiative known as the "Tram Library." Starting in 2014, a few trams were converted into mobile libraries stocked with books, magazines, and newspapers. Passengers can borrow reading material during their tram ride, promoting a love for literature and offering a delightful blend of transportation and intellectual enrichment.
Durga Puja Pandals: Witness the Identity of Kolkata’s Rich Culture
"If you have not attended Durga Puja, you have not truly been to Kolkata."
An inseparable part of Kolkata, taking place during September or October, Durga Puja is the grand festival celebrating the victory of the goddess Durga over evil. During this time, the city transforms into a magnificent outdoor art gallery adorned with elaborately decorated pandals (temporary structures). Each pandal tells a unique story through its thematic decorations, intricate artwork, and innovative lighting. Moreover, UNESCO has recently recognised Durga Puja as an “Intangible Cultural Heritage” (a status bestowed on expressions and practices that shape our cultural identity and promote the intergenerational transmission of traditions).
But what if I am visiting on an ordinary day?
Although Durga Puja pandals are predominantly set up during the festival season, there are many pandals that remain open even after the festival. Additionally, several organisations organise exhibitions or showcase replicas of famous pandals throughout the year, providing a glimpse into the grandeur of Durga Puja. To navigate easily, hire a local guide and take a pandal-hopping tour in Kolkata.
Coffee House Adda: Engaging in Meaningful Conversations
One of the most intrinsic parts of Kolkata's daily culture is adda (adda refers to informal group discussions that take place at tea stalls or street corners). The sight of artists, writers, college students and other intellectuals gathering at the designated points to exchange ideas is a beautiful sight to behold. One of the famous points for the same is College Street, a hub of renowned educational institutions and bookstores, making it the perfect backdrop for these lively discussions.
While in Kolkata, remember to visit the College Street Coffee House, often referred to as the intellectual haven of Kolkata. Established in 1876, this iconic coffee house has witnessed numerous literary and cultural movements, and it continues to be a hotspot for intellectuals to engage in passionate debates and discussions. Figures like Rabindranath Tagore, Satyajit Ray, and Amartya Sen have graced this place! Pull up a chair, order a cup of tea or coffee, and engage in conversations with locals about literature, politics, or any topic that interests you. It's a wonderful way to connect with the city's vibrant intellectual community and gain insights into local perspectives.
Bengali Cooking Class: A Culinary Journey
From learning age-old family recipes to unravelling the secrets of Bengali spices, joining an immersive Bengali cooking class is truly an unforgettable experience. In India, Bengali cuisine is celebrated and cherished, not only in the state of West Bengal but also in other parts of the country. So while on your next trip, engage in hands-on preparations of mouthwatering delicacies like macher jhol (fish curry), shorshe ilish (hilsa fish in mustard sauce), and rasgulla (a popular Bengali sweet) and unveil the nuances of Bengali flavours. Your local expert chef will also share personal anecdotes and fascinating stories about the origins and significance of various dishes, showcasing how food is intertwined with Bengali traditions, festivals, and everyday life.
Thus, be it the artistic haven of Kumartuli or immersing in the grandeur of Durga Puja pandals, Kolkata offers experiences that are unique to the land, making it a popular choice for tourists all over the world.
“Calcutta is beautiful. Wherever you place a camera, you get a vision.”
~ Mr Pradeep Sarkar