10 Must-Know Facts That Make Kolkata City Unique
Kolkata bears its former name Calcutta as it positions itself as one of the culturally significant areas in India. The metropolis resides along the Hooghly River in West Bengal where it has become an essential part of modern India's development. Kolkata shows a special combination of historical elements with cultural diversity and modern development which extends from its colonial background through to its energetic cultural expression. The following ten noteworthy details provide essential information about Kolkata which stands as 'The City of Joy.'
1. The Cultural Capital of India
People consider Kolkata to hold cultural capital status in India because of its deep artistic heritage in literature and art together with its important role in music and filmmaking. The city held Nobel laureates Rabindranath Tagore who received Literature and Amartya Sen who won Economics awards and filmmaker Satyajit Ray whose work found success worldwide. The city of Kolkata displays its everlasting passion for culture by hosting the festive Kolkata Book Fair together with its famous Durga Puja celebrations. Bankim Chandra Chattopadhyay and his son Sarat Chandra Chattopadhyay joined other literary masters to set Kolkata as an intellectual center.
2. A Colonial Legacy
Job Charnock initiated Kolkata with the British East India Company during 1690 before it became the official capital of British India from 1690 to 1911. The historic phase brought forward the creation of Victoria Memorial in addition to St. Paul's Cathedral and Writers Building as a reminder of colonial architectural achievements. The engineering masterpiece of Howrah Bridge which finished without any nuts or bolts during 1943 represents a prominent historical monument of Kolkata. These architectural marvels continue to welcome visitors while preserving their historical significance which represents the long journey of Kolkata.
3. The Birthplace of Indian Nationalism
During the Indian independence movement Kolkata served as an active force that contributed critically to the Indian battle. In 1885 the first session of Indian National Congress took place at this location under the direction of Allan Octavian Hume. Through the city leaders Subhas Chandra Bose and Netaji rose as pivotal figures who founded mass freedom movements against British rule. Notable parts of the Indian freedom movement were shaped by Kolkata residents Madan Mohan Malaviya who became a Jallianwala Bagh martyr and by revolutionary Khudiram Bose.
4. Home to the Oldest Operating Port in India
The Kolkata Port Trust which formed in 1870 maintains operation of one of India's oldest working ports. The eastern Indian coast port connects eastern Indian regions to Bangladesh and Nepal and Bhutan by providing trade access. Throughout its more than 150-year history the port has continued operating actively to support both regional business growth and economic development.
5. Diverse Culinary Heritage
Kolkata stands apart because of its exclusive food culture that incorporates flavors from Bengali as well as Mughal and Chinese and British cooking styles. Two standout traditional delicacies of Bengal are rasgulla and phuchka (also known as golgappa), together with mishti doi (yogurt sweetened with sugar). People of Kolkata love fish curries specially cooked with hilsa and other notable Bengali fish varieties. The Anglo-Indian population in Kolkata is active with traditional food choices including mutton chop and baked beans.
6. The Largest Flower Market in Asia
The flower market at Nakshi Bazar ranks as Asia's largest such market and operates in the vicinity of the Howrah Bridge. Thousands of vendors appear each dawn to offer fresh floral products which come from local nearby villages. What people crave most about Nakshi Bazar is its selection of marigolds together with roses and orchids and jasmine flowers that serve local residents and ritual needs. The marketplace draws viewers through its vibrant atmosphere while demonstrating the regular activities of Kolkatans.
7. Pioneering Educational Institutions
Many historic Indian educational institutions choose Kolkata as their headquarters while their origins stem from the colonial times. Since 1857 the University of Calcutta has operated as the inaugural South Asian institution dedicated to modern university education. Jadavpur University and Presidency University and the Indian Institute of Management Calcutta (IIM-C) jointly rank among the top universities in India and appear repeatedly in national university rankings. These educational institutions have generated numerous scholars together with scientists and leaders who have developed India's academic domain.
8. The Tram Network – A Nostalgic Ride
The tram system located in Kolkata remains the only functional network within India thus making it a distinctive component of the urban transportation system. Indian citizens experienced emotions of nostalgia when British Raj established these tram services in 1873 because they offered environmentally-friendly transportation. The number of trams in use has decreased through the years yet initiatives strive to protect them as a part of Kolkata's historical legacy. Traveling by tram through the city lets people enjoy its vintage atmosphere.
9. A Hub for Hand-Pulled Rickshaws
The operation of hand-pulled rickshaws exists only in specific regions of Kolkata that center on Esplanade and Sealdah. The human-operated transportation system remains a direct link to a previous period through time. Hand-drawn rickshaws continue to honor Kolkata's character through their continued operation while supplying income to disadvantaged employees.
10. Durga Puja: A UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage
During December 2021 UNESCO designated Durga Puja in Kolkata as one of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. During September or October people celebrate five days of festivities to worship the goddess Durga in her triumph over bad forces. Annually millions of people visit structures among the throng of pandals that display beautiful decorations with idols honoring the deity. Durga Puja connects people socially and encourages creative artistry to become a vital organizational value in Kolkata's cultural heritage.
Finak Thoughts
Kolkata surpasses mere municipal status because it functions as a cultural repository that merges the passage of time with current progress and traditional practices with new ideas. This lively metropolis offers something unique to appeal to everyone including its colonial heritage alongside its celebration events and its intellectual heritage. These ten facts about Kolkata provide a deeper understanding that helps people recognize its worldwide appeal as a city of amazement.
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Hindustan Times
an hour ago
- Hindustan Times
Indian man pens heartbreaking farewell after losing job in Dubai: ‘Completely finished savings'
An Indian man has shared a deeply emotional account of his sudden departure from Dubai after five years of living and working there. In a Reddit post, he recounted how an unexpected job termination left him financially drained and heartbroken, forcing him to return to India, an outcome he described as 'the end of his dream.' The user had been living in Dubai since 2019, working hard to support himself and his family back home. (Pexel) 'My heart is breaking into million pieces… I have to leave Dubai tomorrow. Fired. Broke. Empty,' he wrote, describing how a single HR meeting led to the collapse of the life he had built. 'One meeting. Security walked me out like a criminal. Five years hard work, overtime, skipping holidays for project, poof! Gone.' The user had been living in Dubai since 2019, working hard to support himself and his family back home. But with rising costs and no new job prospects despite sending 'literally hundreds' of applications, his savings eventually ran out. 'Dubai salary sounds big but rent? DEWA? Grocery? School fee for sister back home? Petrol? All eating money like monster,' he explained. Even selling off his belongings, 'my small TV, my mattress, my little plant' wasn't enough to get by. 'Feels like selling pieces of my life,' he said. Despite the pain, his farewell was laced with bittersweet nostalgia. 'Oh Dubai… how can I leave you? The smell of karak chai in morning… the crazy beautiful light show on Burj Khalifa… even the stress of Sheikh Zayed Road traffic jam! All gone.' Also read: Noida man dies in cab accident, family claims driver fell asleep at wheel The post also highlights the immense emotional toll of job insecurity. 'What hurts most? Failure. Feeling like I failed myself. Failed my family… Going back to village with empty hands… shame is heavy stone in my stomach,' he wrote, adding, 'My father voice on phone… trying to be strong, 'Come beta, home is home.' But I hear the disappointment.' Take a look at the post: Many took to the comments section to respond. One user wrote, "You're not a failure, you have sustained your family back home for many years. They should be proud of you. DXB isn't the be all and end all of life, you can shine in India or anywhere in the world. If you love living in Dubai then coming back is also an option when you manage to find a role" Another added, 'I'm really sorry you're going through this. But this isn't the end. Take this as your new challenge and be determined. You can start again, stronger than before. Dubai is just one place. You have it in you to persevere anywhere.'
Time of India
2 hours ago
- Time of India
3 easy ways to make sarees last forever
Indian women cherish sarees, laden with memories, demanding careful preservation. Proper storage, gentle cleaning, and protection from pests are crucial. Wrap sarees in cotton, avoid plastic, and air them regularly. Hand wash gently, dry clean sparingly, and use neem leaves or camphor for pest control. These simple steps ensure sarees remain beautiful for generations. Let's face it, every Indian woman has that one saree she's emotionally attached to. Maybe it's your mom's wedding saree, a gorgeous Kanjivaram you bought for your own big day, or that one pastel number that makes you feel like a Bollywood heroine. Whatever the story, sarees aren't just clothes, we carry memories in their folds. But here's the thing: sarees are delicate, and if we don't take proper care of them, they can lose their shine, their strength, and sadly, their charm. The good news? You don't need a dry-cleaning subscription or a fancy walk-in closet to keep them looking new. Just a few smart, simple habits can keep your sarees fresh, beautiful, and ready for decades of draping. So if your precious silks, cottons, or chiffons are tucked away in a trunk somewhere, here are three super easy, no-fuss ways to keep your sarees from getting old because let's be real, they deserve it. Store them right First things first, how you store your sarees makes a huge difference. You can own the most expensive Banarasi in the world, but if it's shoved into the back of a cupboard and forgotten for five years? It'll still get ruined. So here's what you need to do: Fold them with care. Especially silk and zari sarees, don't just roll or crumple them up. Refold them every few months to avoid permanent creases or damage on the fold lines. Use cotton or muslin cloths. Wrap each saree in a breathable cotton or muslin cover (you can even cut up an old bedsheet for this). It protects them from dust, moisture, and keeps the colors from fading. Avoid plastic. Please don't use plastic covers or bags, they trap moisture and can make your sarees smell musty, or worse, develop fungus. Air them out once in a while. About every 2-3 months, just take your sarees out for a bit, let them breathe, refold them, and put them back. No need for sun exposure, just a well-ventilated room is enough. Bonus tip: For heavy sarees like Kanjivaram or Banarasi, you can hang them occasionally on padded hangers but not for too long, or they'll lose their shape. Keep them clean, gently We all know how terrifying it is to get a stain on a beloved saree. But harsh washing isn't the answer either. Whether it's a silk, cotton, georgette, or linen saree, the cleaning method matters more than you think. Here's how to keep things fresh without damaging the fabric: Don't overwash. Most sarees don't need to be washed after every wear, especially if you've worn them just for a few hours indoors. Just air them out and you're good to go. Dry clean, but not too often. For expensive silks or delicate embroidery, dry cleaning is safe but do it only when absolutely necessary. Too many dry-cleaning chemicals can wear down the fabric over time. Hand wash light sarees. Cotton, linen, or soft handlooms? Wash them gently at home with cold water and mild detergent. No scrubbing, no wringing. Stain hacks. Got a little food spill? Dab with a clean, damp cloth immediately - don't rub. For oil stains, talcum powder works surprisingly well (just pat and leave it on overnight before brushing off). Bonus tip: Never hang a wet saree directly under harsh sunlight—it'll fade the colors. Dry it in the shade to keep the hues rich and fresh. Protect from pests and moisture Let's talk about the real villains: moths, silverfish, and mold. Nothing's worse than pulling out a saree for a special occasion and finding tiny holes or weird stains. To keep your beauties safe, a little preventive care goes a long way. Here's how to protect your collection: Use neem leaves or cloves. These age-old Indian hacks still work like a charm. Place a few neem leaves or whole cloves wrapped in muslin inside your saree stacks, they repel insects naturally. Camphor balls or cedar blocks. You can also use camphor or cedarwood balls to keep pests away (just make sure they're not in direct contact with the fabric). Moisture control. If you live in a humid area, silica gel packets can help prevent dampness inside your closet. And never store your sarees in a damp place, wooden almirahs or clean metal trunks work better. Bonus tip: Don't spray perfumes directly on your saree - it can stain, especially on silk. Always apply perfume before getting dressed. 5 ways to tuck in your shirt Your sarees aren't just pieces of fabric, they're woven with memories, family traditions, and maybe even a little bit of magic. So whether you wear them often or just love owning them, they deserve your care. Taking a few simple steps to store, clean, and protect your sarees doesn't take much effort, but the payoff? Years and years of beauty and wear. In fact, treat them well, and your sarees won't just last, you might even pass them on to the next generation. So go on, pull them out, show them some love, and maybe plan your next saree day already. Those folds have more life in them than you think. One step to a healthier you—join Times Health+ Yoga and feel the change
Hans India
2 hours ago
- Hans India
Tracing forgotten footsteps: Uma Lohray on giving voice to India's lost ayahs
Raised across Pune, Hyderabad, and Ahmedabad by scientist parents, and trained as a lawyer in Delhi, Uma Lohray never imagined her literary debut would be sparked by a Blue Plaque in London. 'It began quite unexpectedly,' she shares, recalling the moment she came across an article about the Ayahs' Home. 'The name alone gave me pause. Who were these ayahs, and why did they need a home in Britain?' That small question unlocked a forgotten world of Indian women and girls—many barely teenagers—who were taken overseas by British families as caretakers during colonial times, often only to be abandoned later. This haunting silence, and the systematic erasure of these lives from mainstream history, drove Lohray to write The One-Way Ships. Set in pre-independence Shimla and England, the novel centers on Asha, a spirited girl whose life changes after her father's death. 'Asha is entirely fictional,' says Lohray, 'but she's built from many echoes—girls mentioned in records without names, just fleeting presences.' Through Asha's journey, Lohray offers a lens into a hidden world of displacement, survival, and quiet strength. The research behind the novel was both rigorous and intuitive. Lohray devoured historical texts, shipping records, and period literature, from Dr. Rozina Visram's academic work to Mrs. Beeton's Book of Household Management, piecing together an emotional landscape from archival fragments. Her legal background, she says, helped shape this approach: 'Law teaches you to read between the lines, to question what's missing. That was invaluable in handling archival material and imagining what those silences might have felt like.' Balancing Asha's innocence with growing awareness was one of the novel's artistic challenges. 'Children don't always have the vocabulary for power, race or class—but they feel those things deeply,' Lohray notes. 'The goal was not to make Asha precocious, but perceptive, shaped gradually by experience.' Lohray draws a literary parallel between Asha and Black Beauty, evoking the emotional resonance of a powerless narrator finding dignity and voice. 'Asha doesn't control her world, but she sees it clearly. Her strength isn't granted—it's chosen.' Though rooted in colonial history, The One-Way Ships feels powerfully contemporary. 'So many young people today live between worlds,' says Lohray. 'Asha's story may be set in the 1930s, but her emotional terrain—of loss, resilience, and identity—is timeless.'
