Calcutta: The City of Joy and Chaos

Calcutta, or as the locals call it, Kolkata, is a vibrant city situated on the eastern coast of India. It is famously known as the ‘city of joy’ but it is also packed with chaos, traffic, and pollution. Here are a few things you need to know about this unique city:

History

Calcutta was founded by the British East India Company in the late 17th century. It quickly became a thriving trading hub for the East India Company in India. However, the city’s history is not all rainbows and unicorns. Calcutta was also the capital of the British Raj in India and was infamous for its oppressive policies, including the Bengal Famine which resulted in the deaths of millions of people.

Culture

Calcutta is a melting pot of culture with a unique blend of British and Indian influences. The city is famous for its food, especially sweets like ‘rosogolla’ and ‘mishti doi’. The people of Calcutta are warm, friendly, and always ready to strike up a conversation. The city is also home to several famous artists, filmmakers, and writers.

Traffic

If you thought the traffic in your city was bad, wait until you come to Calcutta. The roads are always congested, and the horns of the cars, buses and bikes seem to be playing an endless symphony. There are no real road rules in Calcutta, and the driving style is best described as ‘organised chaos’.

Cricket

Cricket is a religion in India, and Calcutta is no exception. The city is home to one of the most passionate cricket fan bases in India. The Eden Gardens stadium in Calcutta is the largest cricket stadium in India and has hosted several historic matches.

Festivals

Calcutta celebrates all major festivals with great enthusiasm. Durga Puja, which happens in October, is the biggest and most important festival of the city. The entire city transforms into a giant carnival, and the streets are decorated with brightly coloured lights and stages for plays and musical performances.

Conclusion

Calcutta is a city with a heart, filled with joy, culture and chaos. It has a unique charm that draws in visitors from all over the world. Whether you’re looking for delicious food, historic landmarks or just a taste of Indian culture, Calcutta has something for everyone. Just remember to pack your patience, as you’ll need it to navigate the traffic!