Travel · West Bengal

Tracing the European trail from Kolkata aka the city of Joy

It is not entirely incorrect to say that the East Indian city of Kolkata is one of the most fascinating places to visit in India and has a charm like none other.  With myriad experiences to offer ranging from history, art, culture and of course food, this delightful city has a little bit of something… Continue reading Tracing the European trail from Kolkata aka the city of Joy

Travel · West Bengal

Chandannagar: a taste of the French riviera along the river Hooghly

The simplicity, charm and beauty of Indian colonial towns compares to none other.  Colonial India was an important center of trade and economy as early as the 17th century and it was during this period that Europeans established their trading posts in several Indian coastal towns and cities.  The seafaring rival European powers included the… Continue reading Chandannagar: a taste of the French riviera along the river Hooghly

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