Two Decades of Love: My Remarkable Journey with Kolkata and Bengali Culture

It’s been 20 years since I first set foot in the City of Joy, Kolkata, a place that captivated my heart instantly and continues to do so. Kolkata isn’t just a city to me; it’s an emotion, an integral part of my identity, woven into the fabric of my everyday life. This is a small tribute to that remarkable and amazing connection.

Kolkata greeted me with open arms, a city buzzing with life, yet carrying a soulful serenity. The Victorian-era architecture mingling with modern structures, the iconic Howrah Bridge standing tall, and the quaint tramlines crisscrossing the city, all painted a picture of a place rooted in history yet evolving with time. It was love at first sight.

My connection with Bengali culture deepened as I delved into its artistic and literary heritage. Rabindranath Tagore’s poetry resonated with me, teaching me lessons about life and love. The melodious Rabindra Sangeet became a part of my daily playlist, soothing my soul with its lyrical beauty. Even today, the works of Satyajit Ray, Ritwik Ghatak, Aparna Sen, Rituparno Ghosh and other Bengali filmmakers influence my perspective on cinema and storytelling.

Durga Puja in Kolkata is not just a festival; it’s a grand spectacle of devotion, art, and community. Over the years, I have seen the city transform during this time, with stunning pandals, lively cultural programs, and the infectious spirit of togetherness. Being a part of this celebration has always been a highlight of my connection with Kolkata.

The culinary journey has been equally mesmerizing. From the street food like puchkas and kathi rolls to the traditional Bengali meals with luchi, alur dom, and ilish mach, the flavors of Kolkata have been an exploration of joy. Not to forget the mishti - the sweets like roshogolla and sandesh that are synonymous with Bengal’s sweet tooth.

Beyond the tangible aspects, what truly binds me to Kolkata and Bengali culture is the warmth of its people. Their intellectual curiosity, love for adda (engaging conversations), and zest for life have influenced me profoundly. I have forged friendships here that have stood the test of time and distance.

Learning Bengali was another milestone in my journey. Although moderately fluent, the ability to understand and speak even a little has brought me closer to the heart of this culture. It’s in the lyrical rhythm of this language that I find a connection deeper than words can express.

Over the past 20 years, Kolkata has witnessed changes, yet its essence remains untouched. The city has a unique way of preserving its heritage while embracing modernity. My bond with Kolkata is a testament to how a place can profoundly influence a person, shaping their views and enriching their life.

As I reflect on these two decades, I realize that Kolkata hasn’t just been a place I lived in; it’s a part of who I am. The city and its culture have taught me about resilience, joy, and the beauty of embracing diversity. It’s a relationship that continues to evolve, grow, and surprise me.

As I look forward to the years ahead, I know that my connection with Kolkata and Bengali culture will only deepen. This journey, filled with love and learning, has been nothing short of remarkable and amazing. Here’s to many more decades of this beautiful bond.