A Scrapbook Of Photos From Kolkata!

I had been waiting to enjoy jhalmuri in Kolkata, and when it appeared in front of me in such an attractive way, I was delighted. This mixture of puffed rice with a variety of ingredients was tangy and spicy. I asked the vendor to add a bit of almost everything from his basket to the serving he was making for me, other than the customary mustard oil. Purists may scoff at my omission of this dressing, but I am afraid, my palate simply cannot take it. On the way from Kolkata to Shantiniketan.

Hordes of people had descended on the headquarters of the Ramakrishna Math and Mission. Founded by Swami Vivekananda, the temple draws on Hindu, Christian, Islamic and Buddhist architectural styles as a symbol of unity. The sprawling campus looked very colourful and picturesque, with hundreds of seasonal flowers blooming in the gardens. In spite of the crowds, it was serene; the quiet Hooghly flowing nearby adding to its beauty. At the Belur Math.

Taking a well-deserved break in the middle of a busy day! Somewhere in the vicinity of the Marble Palace.

It is not yet five in the evening and the sun is ready to set soon! A boatman at work with people enjoying the ride in his boat. The Vidyasagar Setu looks grand and imposing. At the Prinsep Ghat.

This window looks so striking with its lovely contrast! At the Jorasanko Thakur Bari.

The blue door attracted my attention. The cycle added an interesting dimension. And the plants provided a touch of life to the frame. In Kumartuli.

The small temple makes everything around it so bright and cheerful! I could not resist taking a picture. In Kumartuli.

Kolkata was the first city to begin Metro rail operations in India in 1984. I took a ride and liked the experience. At Shyambazar Metro station.

The Rabindra Sarobar and its surroundings offer excellent recreational spots to people of all ages. The area is well-maintained and clean. A great place to be outdoors in the middle of a busy metropolis. View from the Calcutta Rowing Club.

A walk along the Rabindra Sarobar.

It was nice crossing the river from Babu Ghat to Howrah in this passenger boat. The ride costs Rs. 6 and lasts only a few minutes. Got treated to lovely views of the iconic Howrah Bridge from the boat.

It is difficult to get the bridge in a single frame. This is the best I could get!

As I alighted from the passenger boat and walked up the ramp, the Howrah station was just across the road.

Hand-pulled rickshaws continue to ply in Kolkata. In fact, they are one of the cultural icons of the city. Rehabilitation of rickshaw pullers and introduction of battery-operated modern vehicles is the need of the hour. At Shyambazar.

These windows are so typical of Kolkata! This is the scene in a lane on a lazy Sunday morning. In Shyambazar.

People living upstairs and small businesses downstairs. The beautiful balconies and drying clothes are so lively and colourful! The trees, shops and homes present a happy picture of co-existence. At Shyambazar.

Photos by Lata

This is where one normally exits the Victoria Memorial halls. The halls were bursting at their seams with crowds. They are impressive and loaded with information on Kolkata and its people. It was interesting reading about the beginnings of the city and how it came to be the bustling metropolis that it is today. Also, about all the distinguished personalities in various fields who contributed to the growth and glory of Kolkata. Being there was a humbling and enriching experience!

Read my posts on Jorasanko Thakur Bari and Kumartuli here.