The Calcutta Connection

It's been eight long years since I left my home, my birthplace and my beloved city, Calcutta. And yet my attachment has far from weaned. It is not unusual at all... there is something about Calcutta that most Bengalis can never get over, no matter how far they go. As a popular saying goes, 'you can take a bengali out of calcutta, but not calcutta out of a bengali'!! It is also not uncommon for people from other parts of India and even elsewhere, to develop a strong bonding with the city after living here for a while. 

What makes Calcutta so very special? It's very hard to pinpoint, but the primary charm of Calcutta probably is the fact that it is such a rich melting pot of history, culture, lifestyles and people (aside from the native Bengali and the very strong British influence, there have been Portuguese, Armenian, Chinese, Islamic, Jewish influences, as well those from modern day settlers from various parts of India). 

The distinctive character or soul of the place, which seeps into the people as well, is laid back but welcoming, placing intellect above all; and giving huge importance to personal pleasures (much of which is obtained through food and travel!). Most Bengalis hold on to their heritage and traditions very fiercely, and as a matter of identity. It can often border on being arrogant but unfortunately that's how we are, like it or not! We understand the many problems that plague our city and it's people in general, and a lot many of us move on in search of greener pastures and better opportunities; but we are ever nostalgic and bound to return, as often as we can!

In spite of living in and exploring Calcutta for many years, there are several places and activities that I am yet to experience to savor our heritage more completely. Now as I stand on the brink of moving away even further, I can't help but recount what I have missed, and drawing up a wishlist for whenever the opportunity presents itself.

My Calcutta 'Things to do' list:

1. The hub of native Bengali culture- Sovabazar area. To catch up on history, architecture, food.

2. The various ghats dotting the Ganga in this part of the city

3. Kumortuli, ahead of Durga Puja to observe the clay artisans at work.

4. Jorasanko Thakurbari and other hubs of Renaissance Bengal

5. Sabarna Sangrahasala, for catching up on the actual history of the city's establishment.

6. The Marble palace

7. Shops in New Market selling rare products such as the Bandel Cheese

8. Nakhoda Masjid and around, at Ramadan time... for an unforgettable gastronomic experience

9. Chinese Breakfast at Tiretta Bazaar, at dawn!

10. The Cultural centres of the minority communities that are indistinguishable from the Calcutta mosiac: Christians, Jewish, Buddhists, and the Chinese population