Howrah Bridge — the Unmistakable Symbol of Kolkata for More than 80 years
The Howrah Bridge became operational on 3rd February 1943. A solo tram was the first traveler on the bridge. However, the Howrah Bridge was not formally inaugurated as the British authorities were afraid that the Japanese might bomb the bridge as the second world war was going on. Even today, it is the most prominent…
Poila Boishakh — the Quintessential Spirit of True Blue Bengalis
The Bengali spirit is versatile and they celebrate their festivals in many ways. In fact, their festivals mean different things to different people. It is the same with Poila Boishakh (Bengali New Year). Everybody celebrates this day in different ways. It is the day of religious fervour (mandatory puja), socialising (long adda sessions), indulging in…
How to Implement Optimum Water Usage at Your Home?
“I think the authorities should take more proactive steps to save water,” declared Nirjhar while brushing his teeth. While he was brushing his teeth, water was flowing continuously from the open tap. But he did not bother. Nirjhar is not an ‘authority,’ and water conservation is not his personal responsibility. However, Nirjhar is not alone….
The Union Budget Focuses on Infrastructure Growth, Shuns Populist Path
Historically, the Union Budget in a pre-election year was always populist, with enough measures thrown in for immediate financial relief for the voters, even if it compromises future growth to some extent. We are a capital-starved country, with resources for growth gathered after a lot of difficulties. But if we have to fulfill our ambition…
Christmas & New Year Holidays — When Kolkata Immerses Itself into Festivities
Kolkata is probably the most cosmopolitan, liberal, and fun-loving city in India. This is particularly felt by anyone who came to Kolkata for the first time. It’s no wonder that the city is fondly called the ‘City of Joy.’ An important facet of Kolkata is that the citizens celebrate every religious festival; in fact, religious…
How Diwali Celebrations in Gated Communities Hugely Uplift Everyone’s Spirit
If there is one city that offers a variety of cultural experiences to its citizens, it must be Kolkata. Kolkata is a melting pot of a variety of cultures, customs, and festivals. It creates an amazing synthesis yet the individual elements retain their identity. There is a valid reason why Kolkata is called the City…
Durga Puja — the Heritage, the UNESCO Recognition, and the International Appeal
Quick research will tell you that the probable first Durga Puja in Kolkata was celebrated in the year 1610. This was at the home of Sabarna Roychowdhury at Barisha, the landowners of Sutanuti, Gobindapur, and Kolkata — the 3 villages that later developed into Kolkata city. Now, this is the Puja that started about 80…
How Durga Puja Transforms Residential Complexes in Kolkata to Extended Families
It was the day of Shasti. Every Puja pandal, every locality, and every home was alight with bright lights and great expectations. But Soma felt as if she plunged into despair. There is no puja at her home, nor at the residential complex where she started to live just before the Pujas with her family….