India >> East Zone >> West Bengal >> KOLKATA
About KOLKATA
 Reminiscent of the British Victorian Era, Calcutta stands as a mirror to the British Raj with its grandeur. It was the capital of British India after British moved their trading post here in 1686. It is the largest metropolis in India with teeming population. The unique trams laid during the British Raj is still in service and is the only city in India where one can have a joy ride in a tram. In parallel, modern underground trains also co-exist in this capital city of West Bengal state. Calcutta is now officially called Kolkata.
| Area: | Approx. 14 million
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| Best Time to Visit: | October to March
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| Climate: | The climate is subtropical, with summer monsoons.
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| Main Languages: | Bengali, English, and Hindi
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| Population: | Bengali, English, and Hindi
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| Temperature: | Summer - Max: 42 Min: 37
Winter - Max: 29 Min: 9.2
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Other Attractions In & Around
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Academy Of Fine Arts
Contemporary Indian Art, Medieval Indian miniature paintings, weapons, sculptures, Indian textiles and Kashmir shawls are some of the fine collections in this Academy.
The Academy is a place where the city's culturally conscious intellectuals converge. It's art galleries feature exhibitions by contemporary artists throughout the year. Local theatre and dance programs are performed in a hall, having a stage.
Set up at the initiative of Lady Ranu Mukherjee in 1933, the Academy is a favourite rendezvous of Calcutta's cultural intelligentsia.. The ground floor houses four main galleries. : The Rabindra Gallery contains original paintings, manuscripts and personal belongings of the Nobel Laureate Shri Rabindranath Tagore. It also contains some photocopies of pages from his diary and letters.
The Textile Gallery contains several exquisite specimens of hand-woven fabrics like dhakai, baluchari, patola, brocade, benarasi silk and jamewar shawls.
There are authentic Mughal miniatures in the Miniatures Gallery.
The Carpets Gallery boasts of a number of beautiful Persian exhibits.
No doubt, the major attraction of the Academy however, lies in the fact that Bengali plays and exhibitions by contemporary artists are regularly held throughout the year. It is a focal point of the arts, be it sculpture, drama, painting or photography. India, with its 5000 years of history, has a rich artistic heritage. Calcutta has been an important center of the development of modern Indian art. Calcutta has several art galleries. The two leading ones are the Academy of Fine Arts and the Birla Academy of Art and Culture.
The Academy holds regular art exhibitions. It has an auditorium popular with small theater groups. Location : It is situated near Victoria Memorial. Gallery Timings : Its galleries are open daily from 3 PM to 8 PM (except the Rabindra Gallery – 12 PM to 6 PM daily, closed on Mondays).
The academy has a gallery of ancient Indian coins.
Collections include contemporary Indian Art including specimens of art of mediaeval Bengal and Indian textiles, 19th century prints and some stone sculptures.
'Rabindra Gallery' opened in 1962 contains original paintings, published and unpublished manuscripts in Bengali and English and personal belongings of the poet. The Academy also runs an Artists' Studio for the benefit of working artists. Theatrical shows are held in the auditorium daily. TOP
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Academy Of Indian Coins & History
Ancient Indian coin collections are the main attraction in this Academy of Indian Coins and History located at 361/B Rabindra Sarani.. Timings : Open every weekday from 11 am to 1 pm. TOP
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Ashutosh Museum Of Indian Arts
Bengali art piece collections can be seen at Ashutosh Museum of Indian Arts located within the premises of Calcutta University.
Established in 1937, it is located within the premises of Calcutta University having interesting pieces of Bengal art.. Timings : Open from 10.30 am to 5.30 pm on weekdays and upto 3.00 pm on Saturdays. TOP
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Asiatic Society
Sir William Jones founded this Asiatic Society in 1784 under the patronage of Warren Hastings, which is famous for collection of Indology, Literature and Scientific Research of about 20000 volumes including some 8000 rare Sanskrit, Arabic, Persian and Hindi manuscripts.
The Society containing material of utmost importance publishes the Journal of The Asiatic Society of Bengal and The Proceedings. The Library contains approximately 20,000 volumes inclusive of 8,000 rare Sanskrit, Arabic, Persian and Hindi manuscript. The archaeological relics, geological and ethnological specimens whom the museum of this society possessed formed the nucleus of the Indian Museum opened in 1875.
Sir William Jones founded this Society, in order to advance the study of Indology. Intended for literary and scientific research.. Collections : The Society's new building houses a museum, a library and administrative offices. On display are old maps, coins, copper inscriptions, journals and palm leaf manuscripts, Tibetan manuscripts, etc. There is an oil painting of Cleopatra by Guido and another of Maria de Medici by Joshua Reynolds. The library is quite exhaustive and is open to visitors. Location : This Institution is situated at 1, Park Street, Calcutta. TOP
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Bandel
40 kms from Calcutta on the banks of River Hoogly, lies Bandel with the oldest church four centuries old, which is a pilgrimage center for the worshipers of Mother Mary. Well connected by rail and road, its serene, calm and quiet atmosphere make this an attractive place to visit.
The Ecclesiastical province of Calcutta comprises practically the old Indian province of Bengal, where the Catholic Faith was introduced very early. About the middle of the 16th century Portuguese merchants were trading with the ports of Bengal. But they did not stay in the country; their ships came to Bengal with the monsoon at the end of May, and went back to Cochin in October. About 1571 they obtained very important concessions from Akbar, the great Mogul emperor then residing in Agra: they were allowed to build a town in Hugli, to erect churches, send for priests and baptize the natives who might wish to become Christians.
Portuguese merchants and settlers soon flocked to Hugli, many natives became christians, so that in 1598 the number of Catholics in Hugli was five thousand, of Portuguese, native, or mixed origin.
It is a lovely spot nestling on the banks of the Hoogly river. Bandel Church, the oldest place of Christian worship in Bengal is easily approachable by rail and road. Frequent suburban local trains from Howrah Station to Bandel take just over one hour to cover the distance. By road the trip can be done in about two hours.. The Shrine : Several Priors submitted petitions to the Holy See in the past to have the Shrine elevated to a Minor Basilica. The Vatican did not grant the requests considering the poor construction of the Church-building and the lack of Catholic population at Bandel.
H.E.Henry D'Souza, Archbishop of Calcutta personally visited the Vatican and moved the Holy See to finally elevate Bandel Shrine to a Minor Basilica. The decree granting the title of Basilica is dated November 25th 1988. The public proclamation was made on the Feast of Our Lady of Bandel on May 7th 1989 by H.E.Arch.Agostino Cacciavillan, Pro-Nuncio of the Holy See in India. The Church Today : Although pilgrims and tourists visit the shrine all through the year, September to March are preferred by the visitors. This Basilica has a number of important feasts in the year. There is the first Sunday of Lent procession, feast of Lady of the Rosary in the month of May, feast of Our Lady of Happy voyage in the month of November, Christmas, and New Year, walking pilgrimage from Calcutta etc. Facilities are also offered to pilgrims who would like to stay overnight.
Bandel offers serene and peaceful atmosphere, calm and quiet surroundings, away from the hustle and bustle of city life. History : The story of Bandel Church begins with the first Portuguese settlements in Bengal. Most historians agree that in 1537 an Admiral Sampayo entered the river Hoogly with nine Portuguese vessels to support Mahmud Shah, the Pathan Nawab of Gaur who, being hard pressed by the famous Sher Khan, had asked the Portuguese representative in Goa for assistance. As a reward for their efforts the Nawab allowed the Portuguese to set up a factory at a spot close to the present Hoogly Jail.
In 1579 the Portuguese constructed a port on the banks of Hoogly and it became a centre of trade and commerce. To protect their interests they built a fort. They soon secured the services of a small band of Augustinian Friars, then the largest religious body in Goa. About the year 1580 a certain Captain Pedro Tavares, a great favourite of the Moghul Emperor Akbar, obtained from him full liberty to preach the Christian faith publicly and to erect churches.
In 1599 a monastery was established at Bandel; a village about a mile from the factory. In a short time two other churches were built within the limits of the factory; a military chapel was added to the fort; and an alms-house under the title of 'Santa Casa da Misericordia’, which provided help to the poor, was also used as a school.
By the middle of the 17th century, the Christian community around Bandel numbered nearly 10,000 and it again became a little commercial center.
Fr. Joao da Cruz who had become too old and feeble handed over the Shrine to the newly arrived Augustinians from Goa. His superior advised him to leave Bengal and go to Goa where he died in 1638, and was buried in the church of Nossa Senhora da Graca. TOP
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Belur Math
In 1897 Swami Vivekananda founded Ramakrishna Mission in loving memory of his Guru Ramakrishna Paramhansa who preached unity of all religions. The International Head quarters of this Mission is located on the west bank of Hoogly, where the edifice is supposed to represent the three different religions in a single structure.
Swami Vivekananda is largely credited with the concept of the Math.
There are now branches of Ramakrishna Mission all over India. Belur Math, the movement’s international headquarters, was founded in 1899. The architecture of Belur Math combines the features of a church, a temple and a mosque, to embody the spirit of religious fraternity. The main gateway leads to the Ramkrishna Sarada Mandir.
The mission was founded in 1938 by Swami Vivekananda (1863-1902) and named after his mentor Shri Ramakrishna Paramahansa (1836-1886). The Ramakrishna Mission is famous for its missionary work and has branches all over the world. The main temple in Belur Math incorporates the various architectural styles of the different religions of India.
The headquarters of the Ramkrishna Order, the Belur Math, was set up on 14th January 1938, as homage to the memory of Sri Ramkrishna, the 19th century monk and seer. His most eminent disciple, Swami Vivekananda, who placed the ashes of Sri Ramkrishna at this spot, marked the spot where the Math stands.
Another attraction for visitors is the Sri Ramkrishna Museum, set up with the assistance of the National Council of Science Museum. Items owned by Sri Ramkrishna, Ma Sarada and Swami Vivekananda are kept as souvenirs, and made to recreate the bygone ambience of blessed serenity.
This International tourist attraction is located near Belur in Howrah district. Its sprawling prayer hall with a statue of Ramakrishna is remarkable. People from different parts of the country and abroad visit these places. Its peaceful and calm atmosphere is befitting the gravity of the place. The Mission runs among other things, an art college, an industrial school and charitable dispensary.. Timings : Belur Math is open daily from 6.30 am to 11.00 am and from 3.30 pm to 7.00 pm. TOP
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Birla Planetarium
This is the largest planetarium in the World near the Government of India tourist office providing a view of the stars and the solar system. For enthusiasts of Astronomy this is a place not to be missed.
One of the largest in Asia, close to the crossing of Theatre Road and Chowringhee Road, the Birla planetarium is adjacent to the Maidan. The planetarium is a single storeyed, circular structure constructed in pure Indian architectural style. The central dome has a diameter of 27m. shaped in imitation of the Buddhist Stupa at Sanchi. The central hall can accommodate 500 persons. Interesting exhibits are the fine collections of paintings, celestial models and busts of famous astronomers that line the corridors. The gigantic planetarium projector accessories comprise of 29000 parts and combine to portray on the inner ceiling of the planetarium, the naked face of space, Stars, planets and heavenly bodies.. Timings : Daily programs from 12 PM to 7 PM. in English, Bengali and Hindi. There are shows in English every day, but as times vary, check in advance.
Closed on Monday
The second largest of its kind in the world, the Birla Planetarium was set up on 29th September, 1962. Visitors are introduced to the wonders of the solar system through projections cast on the domed ceiling. TOP
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Burrabazar
The wholesale and retail trade in Calcutta is concentrated in Burrabazar located north of BBD Bag.
It is a bewildering medley of crowds and merchandise and the businessmen who operate here care nothing for appearances... money is the keyword.. Location : It is located to the north of BBD Bag.
This place is accessible on foot from B.B.D. Bag or by any bus going towards Howrah from B.B.D. Bag. TOP
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Chandernagore
French presence in the Eastern parts of India is evident from Chandernagore located about 30 kms north of Calcutta, which was ruled by France between 1673 and 1952, who left their imprint of distinctive French architecture. It has an interesting history as India got freedom in 1947; this small town was still under the governance of French, being ruled from Pondicherry.. Changes undergone : Colonel Robert Clive of British East India Company Limited and Admiral Watson of British army captured Chandernagore in March 1757, which was a turning point of Indian History. Chandernagore was again taken by French through a treaty with the British but again lost to them in 1794 but ultimately ruled the town from 1816 to 1950.
In 1832 the French administrators set up the Comite de Bienfaisance whose main aim was to help the poor people. In 1871, a big hospital was set up with the help of Doctor Margon. In 1896, Durga charan Rakshit, the courtier of the French Government, achieved the distinction of becoming the first Indian to be conferred with the chevalier de legion d'Honour.
On 12th March 1930 Mahatma Gandhi called the nation for the famous Dandi March against the infamous Salt Act.
As Chandernagore was under the French rule, the party decided to make it their district headquarters.
However, in 1947, the French Government declared Chandernagore a free city and gave more power to Sasan Parishad. In May 1950, the French made a defacto transfer of Chandernagore to the Indian Government and on 2nd February, 1952 they made De Jure transfer which was approved by the French Republican Society on 11th April 1952. On 2nd October 1955, Chandernagore completely became a part of India. Famous Personalities : The first European named Louis Bonnaud was an inhabitant of Chandernagore. Batakrishna Ghosh, the first founder of a cloth mill amongst Bengalis, was a resident of the place of this place. Indrakumar Chattopadhyay, the first maker and publisher of a wall map containing locations of places in Bengal, was a man of this place.
Chandernagore continued as the commercial center but completely banking on the local businessmen. Among them Indranarayan Chowdhury was the most prominent figure, who constructed the temple of Sri Nandadulal and a rest house in the year 1740. History : Though small in extent, Chandernagore is articulate in its tradition. It is a separate self-fulfilling chapter in the history of alien rule in India. When the whole of Bengal was under the English rule as a province of the British administered India, Chandernagore being part of it created an independent tradition under the French rule. From the political or administrative point of view this town was an alien land to the Bengalees.
Chandernagore has created a glorious tradition within its limits in literary activities. Within the span of a little more than half a century about more than a hundred authors have risen-of them four are women.
Chandernagore developed and become total of its own small area because of its separate identity. Unlike the rest of India which had been a British colony for two hundred years, Chandernagore was ruled by France. So she had an interesting history and Identity, which had fascinated the historians throughout the world.
The French came to Chandernagore for the first time in 1673 and in the same year Duplessis, the French Commander, built a house after gathering a plot at Taldanga with the permission of Ibrahim Khan, the then Nawab of Bengal
Then in 1687 the French commander Deslandes started business at Bandel in Hoogly; but after coming across many inconveniences he tried to shift to another place in Hoogly but failed to receive the permission of the Nawab. At last in the next year, the French received the permission to carry on duty free business in Bengal, Bihar, Orissa on payment of Rs. 40,000/- to the Moghul Government, which was then under Emperor Aurangzeb. Deslandes laid the foundation of Chandernagore.
In course of time Chandernagore occupied the topmost position among all foreign settlements of Bengal in trade and commerce and maintained trade relations with Basora, China, Pegu, Jedda, Tibet etc. In those days Chandernagore was a bigger centre of commerce than Calcutta. TOP
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Dakshineswar Temple
Built in 1847 by Rani Rasmoni the place where Ramakrishna attained spiritual vision while working as a priest of Kali temple, on the banks of Ganges, north of Belur Math, is Dakshineswar Temple. The presiding deity is Goddess Kali who is surrounded by 12 other temples dedicated to Lord Siva. It is one of the famous places of pilgrimage.
The colossal kali temple at Calcutta was where Sri Ramakrishna Parahamsa lived and offered his prayers.
The main temple is called the Navaratna Temple. Here there is a silver lotus with a thousand petals. On the flower is the idol of Goddess Kali, standing on the prostrate body of Lord Shiva. A temple dedicated to Rani Rasmoni has later been added near the entrance.. Information for Tourists : The Panchavati, a congregation of five ancient trees, is a spot for peaceful meditation. For overseas visitors, accommodation is available at the International Guest House.
The colossal kali temple is known to be one of the rare temples of Indian origin, having world-renowned fame. TOP
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Diamond Harbour
48 kms south of Calcutta, Diamond Harbor so named by the British, is a popular excursion spot for the locals where Ganges bends south on its way to sea becoming wider and deeper allowing big ships to dock.
Originally known as Hajipur, this charming spot was renamed Diamond Harbour by the British. It was a stronghold of Portuguese pirates and the crumbling walls of their fort remain along the Hoogly.. Perfect Picnic Spot : Located 48 km. south of Calcutta, the harbour is a popular excursion for Calcuttans, accessible from the city by road and rail. For families and friends looking for a quick getaway, this is an ideal picnic spot.
River cruises are available and tourists may spend the entire day on the gently lapping Hoogly. Walking along the riverbank, one can also reach the Sharisha Ramkrishna Mission Ashram, a popular spot for pilgrims.
Tourists can spend a day at the riverfront of this beautiful delta area. A ruined fort, dating back to the time when Portuguese pirates infested the river mouth, makes for an exciting site for exploration. Also interesting is the old lighthouse.
Nearby is the town of Joynagar, where visitors can see manuscripts, terracotta figurines and black stone images of Buddha, Mahavir and Vishnu, belonging to the 11th and 12th centuries, at Kalidas Dutta's collection. TOP
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Digha
Known as Brighton of East Digha is the most popular sea resort located around 187 kms from Calcutta attracting tourists throughout the year with its hard beach where one can drive on the beach during low tide. Bathing is advisable only during the low tide.. Information for tourists : The British had consolidated themselves near Lal Dighi and called it the Great Tank. It was a busy and vibrant place even in those days of yore.
Despite being called a Dighi or Lake, it is in reality a big pond.
The Telephone Bhavan is in its south whereas the Writers' Building stands in the north. The G.P.O. is in the west and in the east is the boisterous B.B.D. Bagh Mini Bus stand. Location : It is located in the heart of B.B.D. Bagh. History : Controversies abound the history of Lal Dighi. Sabarna Chowdhury is believed to have owned an edifice in that region. The Chowdhurys worshipped Shyam Roy as their family God. The abode or temple of the Lord God was in front of their house. During the Dol Jatra festival, the effigy of the God was adorned beautifully and carried in a palanquin from Kalighat to the temple. Thus started their celebration and ceremony of Dol Jatra. The water of the pond used to turn crimson by the shower of 'Avir' making the festival colourful and lively. Hence it came to be known as Lal Dighi.
Some opine that the British had built their fort by the side of the Lal Dighi. The walls of the Fort were crimson casting a similar shadow on the pond beside. So it was christened as Lal Dighi.
According to another school of belief, Lalchand Basak, had dug the immense pond and it came to be known as Lal Dighi after his name. TOP
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Fort William
Completed in 1781 to serve as an impregnable fort at Maidan, Fort William, named after King William III, now serves as the Military Head quarters of the Eastern Command, which can accommodate a garrison of 10,000 men and has huge green expanse giving lung space to a chocked city.
After the events of 1756, the British decided there would be no repetition of the attack on the city and set out to replace the original Fort William. First they cleared out the inhabitants of the village of Govindpur and in 1758 laid the foundations of a fort, which was completed in 1781 at an expense of 2 million British pounds.
The fort is still in use today and visitors are allowed inside only with special permission. The area cleared around Fort William became the Maidan, the lungs of modern Calcutta, stretching 3 km north to south and is over a km wide.. The Structure : The Fort is a brick-and-mortar structure built in the shape of an irregular octagon surrounding 5 square km of which five sides look landward and three on the river, surrounded by a fosse 9 meter deep and 15 meter broad which can be flooded in times of emergency. There are six gates Chowringhee, Plassey Calcutta, Water gate St Georges and Treasury Gate. A telephone office, recreation club, canteen, cinema hall, restaurant, swimming pool and wide moat surround it.
For the tourist, there is a museum housing arms and armours, swords, muskets and machine guns. Another section has photographs of the Burma campaign and of the Bangladesh Liberation War. The Arsenal inside is worth visiting with a prior permission required from the Commanding Officer. TOP
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General Post Office (GPO)
The Postal headquarters of Calcutta, located in the BBD Bag area, is an interesting architectural piece.
The Calcutta General Post Office (GPO), the commercial hub of the city designed by Walter B. Grenville was built in 1864. Its high domed roof and tall Ionic-Corinthian pillars give the building an imposing appearance marking the boundaries of the former Fort William, destroyed during Shiraj-ud-Daulah's attack on the British Settlement in 1756. It is also alleged to be the site of the notorious Black Hole of Calcutta.
The GPO functions as the chief post office of West Bengal and houses an adjacent redbrick building, the Postal Museum that was built in 1884. The museum displays a wide collection of artefacts and stamps, which includes antique cast iron post boxes, signal lights from the Railway Mail Service, franking seals, copies of charters, etc commemorating the history of postal services in India. At the southwestern end of the building is the Philatelic Bureau, which is a collector's delight. Visitors can buy some of the more recent first day covers and mint stamps at cost price from the Bureau.. Do you know? : In the days of yore, the old fort of the British stood where the G.P.O. stands today. On the eastern staircase of the G.P.O., an inscription is visible even to this day. The lines in the adjacent steps and pavement, mark the position and extent of part of the South East bastion of old Fort William which is 95 feet from this wall.
The first spectacle, which catches sight about this house, is the dome with a clock. There are beautiful pillars in the front. Wide staircase leads to the building from the pavements on the eastern and southern sides. The total cost for this project was RS. 6,50,000. TOP
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Kali Temple
This is located in South Calcutta, on the banks of Hoogly whose presiding deity is Goddess Kali and was rebuilt in 1809 from which the present name Calcutta comes to the city and since then it has been an important pilgrimage site. The original building was renovated in 1971.. Location : It is situated in Alipore about 5 miles from Howrah and is always over crowded with devotees from all over the country. Legend : Calcutta has for ages being associated with massive fan following for Goddess Kali. The story-legend has it that while carrying Sati's burnt remains from Daksha's Yagna, Shiva dropped the right toe of Sati here. Sati's father had set up to perform a major yagna and everyone was invited except for his daughter and son-in-law, as he had never liked Shiva. On reaching the Yagna, Sati and Shiva were constantly ignored. Humiliated by this Sati cursed the Yagna and threw herself into the fire. The burnt remains fell down in 51 places while carrying them back to his abode.
Kalighat is the actual temple from which Kalikata takes its name. The pujas and other festivals of light, crackers and colorful processions connected with Navarathri celebrations are hallmarks and highlights of the festivals conducted in honour of Goddess Kali.
It is a great attraction for Hindu pilgrimage. This temple of Mother Kali is one of the 52 Shakthi Peetams in India and does known for her aggressive yet love nature.
Apart from the divine power of the residing deity, the temple has long been famous for its fine examples of terracotta art, though a lot of it has been ravaged by time.
The idol of Goddess Kali is made of black stone and decorated with gold and silver. The one of Lord Shiva is in silver. The goddess is offered a ceremonial bath every year on the snan-yatra day, the rituals being performed by the head priest.
Kali represents the destructive side of Siva's consort and demands daily sacrifices; therefore in the morning goats have their throats slit here to satisfy the goddess's bloodlust. During the day many poor people come here for a free feed.
Mother Teresa’s Hospital for the Dying Destitute is right next door to the temple and you are welcome to visit. The temple is about 2 km directly south of St Paul's Cathedral and is easily accessible by metro. TOP
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Nandan
Late Satyajit Ray inaugurated and patronized this center of culture housing three cinema halls one of which is dedicated in screening art movies.
It is Calcutta's best movie theater. The Rabindra Sadan and Sisir Mancha (both auditoriums) are situated next to Nandan.
Nandan theatre behind Rabindra Sadan is Calcutta's place of cine culture for film enthusiasts and professionals. Late Satyajit Ray designed its intriguing emblem. Its three motion picture theatres have the best screening facilities in Calcutta. Largely film clubs to screen art movies for their members use one hall. People camp overnight outside ticket counters during film festivals to get hold of tickets.
Nandan is the best cultural centre in the eastern zone of India, which was established on 2nd September 1985. A selected committee controls it. Its first chairman was the world famous film director and maker Late Satyajit Roy who was the Oscar holder, the Second being the great dramatist late Utpal Datta. The third chairman was the successful actor Late Anil Chatterjee.
Nandan has its own library and a great museum in the name of Satyajit Roy. It is called Satyajit Roy Archives. Different types of books about film are available in Nandan library. Nandan has had published many research works about films. These are like Bengali film Directory, Bengali Cinema and short films, A poet with a camera, 100 years of cinema etc. It also organises various types of film - related programmes.. Study and Research Facility : The collection of the Archive is accessible to film makers, critics, researchers, film students, individuals and institutions. Satyajit Roy Archives : These archives are well - ornamented by the books of Satyajit, his film records (cassettes), his camera, cigar-pipes, awards, a huge collection of books and many other valuable documents.
Nandan I is the main auditorium with a capacity of over 1100. There are two mini auditoria, Nandan II and III. There is also a seminar and conference hall (Nandan IV). The film complex also houses Ritwik Memorial Library and a film vault. A permanent exhibition of antique film and audio equipment has been installed at Nandan.
This institution, concerns itself with all aspects of cinema and covers the following -
Screening of significant films produced both in India and abroad including commercial releases
Retrospectives and Festivals
Exhibitions and Publications
Seminars, discourses and annual lectures
Training Courses
Archival work and Research
Library of books and periodicals Library : The library has 300 titles, whose collection includes all the fictions and other writings by Ray. Constant search is on to gather similar other items. There are 773 periodicals in this section which includes a sizeable quantity of Sandesh – a
children’s magazine founded by Ray’s grand-father which was revised by Ray himself in 1961. Location : It is situated adjacent to the Academy of Fine Arts Complex. Satyajit Ray Archive : The Ray Archive is run by the Department of Information and Cultural Affairs of the Government of West Bengal as a part of Nandan. The maestro’s contributions as a filmmaker, composer, writer, illustrator, calligrapher and critic are collected and preserved for research, publication, exhibition and screening. The activities of the Archive could be undertaken with generous financial assistance from the Ford Foundation.
The Archive has so far collected 30 films. TOP
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Pareshnath Jain Temple
The Pareshnath Jain Temple is made up of various mirrors, glass mosaic and colored stones. The temple is situated in Shyambazar and it overlooks the beautiful garden.
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Rabindrabharati Museum
Rabindrabharati Museum has a collection of Bengal renaissance artifacts and is situated near Girish Park on Chittaranjan Avenue.
The Museum concentrates on the Bengal renaissance of the nineteenth century.. : Rabindrabharati Museum has a collection of Bengal renaissance artifacts and is situated near Girish Park on Chittaranjan Avenue.
Timings: It is open from 10.00 am to 5.00 pm on weekdays.
The Museum concentrates on the Bengal renaissance of the nineteenth century. TOP
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Shaheed Minar / Ochterlony Monument
This is a 48-meter high monument, built with a unique blend of Turkish, Egyptian and Syrian architecture and is named after Sir David Ochterlony. In 1969 its name was changed to 'Shaheed Minar'.
It was erected in 1828. There a fine view from the top of the column, but permission to ascend must be obtained from police headquarters, which is on Lal Bazaar St. Information For The Tourists : A little distance away from the foot of the monument, there is a terminus for local buses as well as long-distance
One can have a panoramic view of Calcutta from the top of this Minar. From there, the much-known Calcutta is transformed into an enigmatic fantasyland. But one cannot get at the top of the Minar at one's will until he has the permission of the Deputy Commissioner. Timings : It’s only open Monday to Friday and you should simply ask for a monument pass at the Assistant Commissioner’s office on the 2nd floor. History : It was built to commemorate the British East India Company's victory in the Nepal Campaign of 1814 - 1816. In 1968, however, it was renamed Shaheed Minar or Martyrs' Column in memory of the Indian freedom fighters.
Designed by J.P. Parker, this column is of mixed architectural style having a Syrian column, an Egyptian plinth slightly tapering towards the top, and a Turkish cupola. It needs 218 steps to climb to the top of the high tower. Political parties, trade unions and other groups frequently use the grounds adjoining the monument to hold public meetings.
The custom of convening political seminars started in 1931 when a historical convocation took place here, presided by Rabindranath Tagore. The humanitarian poet had severely condemned the vandalism of the imperialist British Government that had shot a youth dead in the Calabooze in Hizli. Few years ago, the dome of the 'Minar' was coloured which kicked off a storm of protest. TOP
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St John^s Church
A little south of BBD Bagh is the Church of St John, which dates from 1787. The overgrown graveyard here has a number of interesting monuments, including the octagonal mausoleum of Job Charnock, founder of Calcutta, who died in 1692. Admiral Watson, who supported Clive in retaking Calcutta from Siraj-ud-daula, is also buried here. The obelisk commemorating the black hole was moved from near the GPO to a corner of this graveyard.
It was constructed between 1784 - 87, at a cost of Rs. 2 lakhs. Based on Greek architecture and designed by Lt. James Agg, the graceful Church is made entirely of stone. It is the earliest example of British masonry in India.
Near the west wall is a replica of the Holwell Monument - originally erected at the site of the Black Hole of Calcutta. Inside the church there are the famous paintings of The Last Supper by John Zoffany, a marvellous stained glass window and memorial tablets of prominent citizens through the ages.. Information For Tourists : It is an old stone church dating back to 1784. Situated near the High Court it is accessible by any bus going to B B D Bag. The Sunday service is held regularly at the church.
The stone tower is 174 ft. high. Job Charnock’s sculpture was made by his son-in-law Sir Charles Ayar around 1695 and is a unique specimen of art. There is a dome with a pitcher appended to it. There are also the tombs of the daughters of Charnock, Lord Brabourne, Lady Canning and several distinguished persons. TOP
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St Pauls Cathedral
St. Paul's Cathedral was the first 'Episcopal Cathedral Church' in an oriental country. Bishop Wilson patronized the construction of this church which was designed after Indo-Gothic pattern at a cost of Rs. 5 lakhs. The foundation stone was laid in 1839. Major Forbes of the Bengal Engineers' Association made the blueprint. It was completed in 1847. A massive earthquake led to the collapse of this tower. It was renovated but in another earthquake of 1934, it was adversely affected again.
St. Paul's Cathedral has many well-preserved memorials, one of which is a stained glass panel of the west window, designed by Sir Edward Burne-Jones in 1880 to honour Lord Mayo assassinated in the Andaman Islands.. Location : It stands just to the east of the Victoria memorial at the southern end of the Maidan. Architecture : The main cathedral hall is large, with beautifully carved wooden pews and chairs along with the stained glass window to the west, the intricate coloured artwork covering the eastern walls, the two marvellous Florentine frescoes. The church is 247 ft. in length and 81 ft. in width and the tower is 201 ft. high. The Cathedral is set within huge grounds with several ancient trees. There is a small meditation spot on the grounds, set up recently in collaboration with distinguished citizens of Tagore's Shantiniketan.
The interim of the church is a feast for the eyes, with excellent floral designs on the walls. Beautiful architecture and exquisite mural painting captivates the beholder. The life and work of St. Paul is vividly described in pictures. Bishop Wilson lies in his eternal slumber in a coffin inside an underground chamber. The commission plate conferred on him by Queen Victoria is still exhibited here. The ambience of the church is very soothing and tranquil. History : The foundation for St. Paul's Cathedral was laid in 1839 largely due to the efforts of Bishop Wilson. In 1847 it was consecrated as the first Episcopal Church of the Orient. Its Indo-Gothic architecture is credited to Major W.N. Forbes.
An earthquake destroyed the original 61-m. high tower in 1897. After restoration, it was again destroyed by another earthquake. Finally, it was rebuilt as a replica of the Bell Harry Tower of Canterbury Cathedral. Timings of St Pauls Cathedral : It open to visitors from 9 am to noon, and from 3 to 6 pm. Sunday services are at 7.30 and 8.30 am, and 6 pm. TOP
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Sunderban
Home for the famous Royal Bengal Tigers, Sunderbans are part of the worlds largest delta formed by the rivers Ganges, Brahmaputra and Meghna which is spread over 10,000 sq kms and is home for many exquisite animals and birds and is a declared national park. The Indian Government has declared this 1330 sq kms of area as a national park. There are regular bus services from Calcutta to this place. But the main areas of the sanctuary can only be accessed only by riverine waterways. The best and the safest way to visit Sunderbans is on conducted tours.
The name Sundarbans is perhaps derived from the term meaning forest of sundari, a reference to the large mangrove tree providing valuable fuel.
Tigers in Sunderbans are known to swim a record distance of 10 kms. They also hunt fish if hungry or steal honey from the beehives. Though Sunderban tigers are described as man-eaters, specialists say they rarely attack human beings. Tigers are not the only attraction in Sunderbans; there are estuarine crocodiles and shy jungle cats or the fishing cats too. The reptiles found in the forest include the King Cobra, Rock Python and Water Monitor.
The Sunderban is the largest estuarine forest in the world. The Sunderban National Park is an UNESCO World Heritage site. Two thirds of this area today falls in neighboring Bangladesh and is often hit by powerful cyclones originating in the Bay of Bengal.. Best Season : The best time to be in wildlife belts of the region is from September to March. Rediscover the natural treasures : Ever thought of spending a whole day in the midst of mudclad crocodiles, hopping Cheetals and majestic Royal Bengals! If not, then Sunderbans is the ideal place.
After a close encounter with the wild you can spend the adventurous night in the launch under the shooting stars.
Situated on the lower end of the Gangetic West Bengal, is this world’s largest delta covered by mangrove forest and vast saline mud flats. A land of 54 tiny islands, crisscrossed by innumerable tributaries of Ganga, is now the abode of varied flora and fauna population. The undiscovered greenery : Sunderbans, the place owing its name to Sundari trees, consist of a large flora population like Genwa, Dhundal, Passur, Garjan and Kankra. Apart from these trees, impenetrable Goran trees covers almost the entire region. A land ruled by Royals : The land that is inhabited by Royal Bengal Tigers is not far from Calcutta. You can explore unknown wildlife of Sunderbans that harbour jungle cats, fishing cats, Axis deer, wild boar, Rhesus monkeys, mongooses and the largest estuarine crocodiles in the world.
Sunderbans is the breeding ground of immense variety of birds like Heron, Egret, Cormorant, Fishing Eagle, White Bellied Sea Eagle, Seagul, Tern, Kingfisher as well as migratory birds like Whimprel, Black-tailed Godwit, Little Stint, Eastern Knot, Curlew, Sandpiper, White-eyed Pochard and also Whistling teal. TOP
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