Info

Kolkata, formerly known as Calcutta, is the capital city of the Indian state of West Bengal. It is known for its rich cultural heritage, intellectual legacy, and vibrant arts scene. Here are some key points about Kolkata:

1. Cultural Hub: Kolkata is often referred to as the “Cultural Capital of India” due to its significant contributions to art, literature, theater, and music. It is the birthplace of renowned figures such as Rabindranath Tagore, Satyajit Ray, and Swami Vivekananda.
2. Colonial Architecture: The city has a rich colonial history and is home to numerous buildings and monuments from the British era, including the Victoria Memorial, Howrah Bridge, and the Indian Museum, which is the oldest and largest museum in India.
3. Education and Literature: Kolkata has a strong educational tradition and is home to prestigious institutions such as the University of Calcutta, Jadavpur University, and Presidency University. The city hosts the Kolkata Book Fair, one of the largest book fairs in the world.
4. Economy: The economy of Kolkata is diverse, with significant contributions from industries like information technology, textiles, manufacturing, and services. The city is also known for its bustling markets, such as New Market and Gariahat.
5. Festivals: Durga Puja, the most famous festival of West Bengal, is celebrated with immense grandeur in Kolkata. The city comes alive with elaborate pandals, artistic idols, cultural performances, and vibrant processions.
6. Cuisine: Kolkata is famous for its delectable cuisine, including dishes like fish curry (machher jhol), rice, and an array of sweets such as rasgulla, sandesh, and mishti doi. Street food like puchka (pani puri), kathi rolls, and jhalmuri are also immensely popular.