Kolkata

Fort William, Calcutta, 1735

Chowringhee Square, Calcutta in 1945

Corner of Harrison Street (Burra Bazar) and Strand Road, Calcutta in 1945

Kolkata Skyline pic

Kolkata City skyline from Hoogly bridge

Park street area kolkata 2020

Kolkata (formerly Calcutta) is the capital of the Indian state of West Bengal. Located on the eastern bank of the Hooghly River, the city is approximately 80 kilometers west of the border with Bangladesh. It is the principal commercial, cultural, and educational centre of East India, while the Port of Kolkata is India's oldest operating port as well as its sole major riverine port. As of the 2011 Indian census, Kolkata was the third-most populous city in India, with over 4.5 million residents within the city limits, and over 14.8 million residents in the Kolkata Metropolitan Area, making it the third-most populous metropolitan area in India.

History

Kolkata has a rich history that dates back to the late 17th century, when it was established by the British East India Company as a trading post. It was the capital of British-held territories in India until 1911, when the capital was moved to Delhi. The city was the centre of the Indian independence movement and has maintained a significant place in Indian politics and culture since then.

Geography

Kolkata is located in the eastern part of India. It has a tropical wet-and-dry climate that is designated Aw under the Köppen climate classification. The city sprawls along the eastern bank of the Hooghly River, which divides it from the Howrah district. It is prone to seasonal flooding due to heavy rains during the monsoon season.

Economy

The economy of Kolkata is diverse, encompassing everything from manufacturing and agriculture to finance and information technology. The city is known for its cultural festivals, arts scene, and historical landmarks, which also contribute to its economy through tourism. Major sectors include steel, mining, cement, pharmaceuticals, food processing, agriculture, textiles, and electronics.

Culture

Kolkata is often referred to as the "cultural capital of India". It has produced many of the country's most renowned poets, writers, film directors, and Nobel Prize winners. The city hosts the annual Kolkata International Film Festival, which attracts cinema enthusiasts from all over the world. Kolkata is also famous for its Durga Puja festival, which is one of the largest and most colorful festivals in India.

Education

The city is a major centre for education in India. It is home to some of the country's most prestigious universities and research institutions, including the University of Calcutta, Jadavpur University, and the Indian Statistical Institute. Kolkata has a high literacy rate and is known for its contribution to the fields of literature, science, and politics.

Transport

Kolkata has an extensive public transport system that includes the Kolkata Suburban Railway, the Kolkata Metro, buses, and trams. The city is also served by the Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport, which is a major hub for flights to and from Eastern India as well as international destinations.

See also

• List of people from Kolkata
• Culture of Kolkata
• Economy of Kolkata
• Geography of Kolkata