Kolkata is also known as The City of Joy, and probably that’s the supreme reason why people have nurtured a soft-corner for the city. From the affordable mode of living to pocket-friendly expenses, all set a perfect ambiance for dwelling in the joyous city.
Kolkata is known for being the most active and efficacious in terms of upholding and preserving its culture, tradition, literary and artistic heritage. It is the cultural hub of West Bengal; also it won’t be wrong if you say Kolkata is popular in the entire nation due to its strong participation in music, art, culture, cuisines, sports, and all the good activities that keep one’s heart and soul alive despite having busy days at work. No doubt it’s the “cultural [or literary] capital of India”.
No one can beat the addas i.e the leisurely chats harmonized with exquisite mouth-watering Bengali cuisines! And not to mention the festivals, especially the most famous Durga Puja, Laxmi Puja, Saraswati Puja, Eid, Diwali, Christmas and so on are always hold eye-catching events, something never to be missed.
There are loads of other things that Kolkata offers which casts a spell on us so much that we in turn never want to leave the City of Joy.
So let’s check out some of the reasons why no one would want to leave The City of Joy, Kolkata.
1. The Bangla Band Bash!
Now that’s something unique about Kolkata! The place is undoubtedly the hub of music. From classical to folk to ‘Bangla Band’, Kolkata sings to all. And college festivals and Puja occasions are the perfect time to experience this life!
2. Durga Puja Celebration aka DP Fashion
From “Maa asche” to “Asche bochor abar hobe” Durga Puja is the entire period of sanctity as well as an ultimate celebration. It becomes a 24*7 carnival with people wearing the most fashionable outfits; be it traditional, western, ethnic, or mix and match! After all the selfies need to be on the point, isn’t’ it?
3. ‘Khabar-dabar’ r Pet Pujo
Kolkata is very serious about foods and cuisines. She makes sure her people are not devoid of delicious foods. That’s why from the early morning to midnight one can find street foods to restaurants open for the residents and visitors. And the best thing about our food: Street foods and lots of adda to spice up the day!
4. Pocket-friendly shopping with lots of bargaining
Kolkata offers you many street-side shops that are not only low-priced but are durable as well. Not only fashionable clothing and accessories but also home decors, electronic goods, and other products, everything is available at affordable prices. Plus, it allows you to bargain! What else do you need?
5. Jadavpur University and its popularity
Jadavpur University (JU) is a public state university and is extremely popular for its wide range of educational perspectives and active participation in politics, social affairs, and entertainment.
6. Tram ride
Tram ride gives that old-age feeling. Whenever you see a tram you will immediately have that historical vibe attached to it. The slow but proper vehicle it is for transport and frequent sightseeing. The tram ride is definitely a star attraction and once you ride it, you cannot forget the taste of it. It will leave you nostalgic.
7. The Busy Coffee house
Some places have that special appeal that will leave a spell on you and you’ll love it forever. Every long queue is worth the excuse to have a seat and have coffee, sandwiches coupled with pakoras, kabirajis, or cutlets. We have the ‘addas’ to spice up the entire time spent there. Manna Dey’s “Coffee House er sei adda ta aaj aar nei” is appropriately relatable especially when we do leave the city.
8. The Eternal Romance in Victoria Memorial
Victoria Memorial, a large marble palace built up in memory of Queen Victoria, is one of the perfect places for couples. Romance is all over the place. Furthermore, the greeneries, gardens, fountains, and pathways set a romantic vibe for all those who visit the place.
9. You Can Get Any Book in College Street
Do I need to remind you of the record-breaking facts that College Street is the ‘largest book market in India’ and the ‘largest second-hand book market in the world’? Yes, you heard it right! It’s the largest hub for book lovers. And you can get all sorts of books at attractive discounts. Second-hand books or old books are also available here. Be a book lover or not, you are sure to get amazed to see the number of people visits there.
10. South City Mall: A perfect hangout for all
In Kolkata, shopping malls have duo functionality. Firstly, it serves as a nerve center for shopping and Secondly and most importantly it offers the perfect hangout place for everyone. Whether you come with enough money or not, in South City Mall and other malls, you will get a huge air-conditioned space to roam around, glare at the new arrivals, have a seat inside in case your leg hurts, and take loads of selfies. Plus, you are provided with a good lighting system as well.
11. Kolkata has kept Rabindranath Tagore alive
Words will fall short to describe the importance and value of Rabindranath Tagore. Rabindranath Tagore is the father figure of not only the Bengalis but also of the nation. His contribution, starting from stories, music, songs, novels, and other literary works, Rabindranath Tagore is everywhere in Bengalis’ life. And Kolkata has immense respect for Rabindranath Tagore.
12. Kolkata has an immense craze for Football
When the question comes from football, the first image we get is of Kolkata. Kolkata has nurtured and procreated all the football buffs and battlers. In each and every ‘para’ (society), ‘goli’(lanes), and on any ‘maathe-ghaate’ (fields) you will find boys and even girls playing football. East Bengal and Mohun Bagan are the top names to hit our minds. And FIFA U-17 has chosen Kolkata (Salt Lake City) for the gameplay. Do we need to speak more about it?
13. Ilish Maach er swad
Fish is the main dish in Bengali’s food cycle. At every home, there are fish lovers and every home makes fish dishes. Even from small eateries to big restaurants you will be served fish dishes and prawns and Ilish is the two main Bengali dishes that you will get for sure. Kolkata has immense love for both the Chingri Mach and Ilish Mach!
14. Park Street
The party hub of Kolkata: Park Street is what comes to our mind when the winter season sets in. Varieties of foods are then sold on the streets and restaurants. Bars and pubs are open till midnight. The more the night sets in, the more the place becomes crowded with people, wearing Christmas Caps, fancy bands with LED lights matching themselves with the most decorative lighting arrangements done all over the streets. You must be knowing by now why Kolkata is known as the “City of Furious, Creative Energy”.