Travel · West Bengal

Malik Ghat Flower market in Kolkata: a truly arresting and striking experience

As mentioned in my previous posts here and here, exploring the local markets, especially flower markets is a “must do” in my travel itinerary. Ubiquitous yet unique, these markets truly reflect the native culture and spirit of a place. Diversity in India is truly endless; whether in terms of climatic conditions, types of terrains, languages, religion,… Continue reading Malik Ghat Flower market in Kolkata: a truly arresting and striking experience

Travel · West Bengal

Hooghly Imambara: grandeur of the yesteryears

An architectural masterpiece of the 19th century is the magnificent Hooghly Imbabara in the town of Hooghly situated in the state of West Bengal. Hooghly or Hooghly-Chinsura as it also known lies about 30 k from the metro city of Kolkata.   Built by Hazi Mohammad Mohsin between 1841 and 1861, this historical structure doubles up… Continue reading Hooghly Imambara: grandeur of the yesteryears

Travel · West Bengal

Indigenous creativity: Idol makers of Kumartuli

One of India’s biggest and most colorful festivals Dusshera or Durga puja is celebrated in a variety of ways in different parts of the country.  The festival is a riot of colors, pomp and gaiety right from Kulu in the north to Mysuru in the south. For the uninitiated, Durga puja is celebrated to mark… Continue reading Indigenous creativity: Idol makers of Kumartuli

Travel · West Bengal

Kolkata: the quintessential charm of the City of Joy

On my first visit to the second largest city of India, I quickly realized that Kolkata has a charm like none other.  The cultural and intellectual capital of India presents an eclectic mix of the old and the new with art, culture, cricket, football and festivity ingrained deeply into the ethos of the city. Located on… Continue reading Kolkata: the quintessential charm of the City of Joy