The tram used to have just 2 bogies (cars), the 1st class at the front and the 2nd class tagging behind. The 1st class used to have cushion seat and fan, while the 2nd class had wooden seat with no fan. We always used to travel by 2nd class. My sister and I used to pester our father for the 1st class and he used to reply: "No means no. I can't afford the 1st class fare (which those days used to be 13 paisa vis-a-vis 10 paisa for the 2nd class). That incident taught us the value of money, not then but many many years later
The man whom you called BANNER ji could also be CHATTER ji as he would be incessantly shouting the slogans while marching. The one thing you missed out was BANDHS, the reds gave to the nation. . The bandhs were very violent leading to several deaths. The city would come to its knees. It was Dr. B.C. Roy who brought peace to the city. But it is back to its violent ways. The Maidan to Kolkata is like marine drive to Mumbai. It is only in Kolkata that you still see the good old Ambassadors plying. They love it.
As an adult, I had the opportunity to visit Kolkata, fondly known as the "City of Joy," with my parents and brother. It was an enchanting journey that left an indelible mark on my heart and created memories that I cherish to this day.
One of the highlights of our trip was tasting the famous K C Das rosogolla. We delved into the indulgence of these soft, syrupy, and utterly delectable sweet treats. Every bite was a burst of pleasure, and it became a must-have dessert during our stay in Kolkata.
Another culinary delight we enjoyed was devouring the flavorful Chowmein. Kolkata's street food scene was a revelation for our taste buds. In the bustling streets, we savored the unique flavors and aromas of this lightly spiced noodles dish, relishing every mouthful as if it was an adventure on its own.
During our visit in 1991, we experienced the India's first underground metro line. As we eagerly stepped aboard, the excitement was palpable. The futuristic train whisked us through the labyrinthine network, providing us with a whole new perspective of the city beneath the surface. It was a thrilling experience, marked by the clatter of the tracks, the rush of wind, and the vibrant energy of the metro.
Beyond these specific experiences, Kolkata itself left an impression for its vibrant culture, bustling markets, and colonial architectural wonders. We explored the iconic Howrah Bridge, visited the enchanting Victoria Memorial, and strolled along the lively streets of Park Street. The city's rich history and artistic flair were evident at every turn, leaving us in awe of its charm.
But what truly made our visit to Kolkata memorable was the people. We encountered warm and welcoming locals who embraced us with open arms, exuding a sense of joy and contentment despite life's many challenges. It was this pervasive spirit of happiness and resilience that lent Kolkata its well-deserved title, the "City of Joy."
Looking back, our childhood visit to Kolkata remains an unforgettable chapter in our lives. It was a journey filled with culinary delights, intriguing adventures, and the warm embrace of a vibrant city. The memories we created during that trip continue to evoke a sense of joy and nostalgia, reminding us of the captivating essence of Kolkata - a city that truly lives up to its nickname.
Thank you, Mr Prasanna’s your Filter Coffee on “City Of Joy” is close to my heart. I wrote an e-book “My 42-Year Tryst with Calcutta. I quote below a few of my many experiences from this book:
KC DAS Rasagollas are famous all over the country and you get them everywhere, but my favourite is Ganguram’s Misti Dhoi.
Durga Puja during my 14 years, I was overwhelmed by the magic of Bengal and it's a feeling that still remains.
Pukurs of Calcutta: In Calcutta a "Pukur" refers to a man-made pond or small artificial lake. Pukurs have been an important part of Kolkata's culture and heritage. Historically, owning a Pukur is seen as a status symbol of wealth and power. One of my friends humorously explained this said that for giving a daughter in marriage, the prospective groom must own three things: PUKUR (POND), KUKUR (DOG) AND BARI (HOUSE). Pukur to ensure that the daughter gets fresh fish on the dining table, the dog to take care of her security and the house to stay with dignity.
New Market: This massive shopping complex, in Lindsay Street, offers everything one might need, including jewellery. It has many lanes and bye lanes within the complex and a new person is likely to get lost in this maze. Rehman & Sons was a famous shop for inexpensive quality garments. Occasionally you can spot film personalities like Aparna Sen.
Once when three of my colleagues from Hyderabad sought my help in shopping. I took them to 6/7 shops in New Market for different items. One of my colleagues jokingly said, “Ramana, you are so familiar with these shops, tell me, do they pay you weekly or monthly?”
Political rallies & Bandhs: These are very common in Calcutta. When a Political rally was planned to Writers Building, people travelling by train were advised to leave 2/3 hours in advance to cover a distance of even 6 kms. On one such occasion, my colleague from Hyderabad and I were to travel by Black Diamond Express to Dhanbad to attend an important meeting.
Despite leaving the office at 2-30 PM to catch the train scheduled to depart at 5 PM, at 4-15 PM the traffic came to a grinding halt at Strand Road. That was when I understood why the road was named that! Howrah Bridge was jammed. Our Driver said “Sir, it is impossible to reach Howrah Station by Car, I suggest that you walk across to Babu Ghat, take the ferry and you will be able to reach faster and catch the train.
Without wasting time, we picked up our overnighter bags and hurried to the Babu Ghat, with only 25 minutes left for departure of the train. To our dismay we found a long line for ferry tickets. We were crest fallen and decided to go back. Then a good Samaritan who was watching our dilemma suggested that we travel without ticket and pay double the fare as penalty at the destination. We followed his advice and when we reached the other end we were aghast that the line was double for payment of penalty. We were so near and yet so far. The gentleman who advised seized the situation and said “Don’t worry friends, I have a season ticket book, please take two tickets from me.”
We gratefully accepted the tickets but didn’t have 80 paise change to pay. I pulled out a twenty rupee note and requested him not to bother about paying the balance, but he took out from his wallet slowly counted Rs.19.20 and paid us. We profusely thanked him, dashed from there and got into a running train.
These anecdotes merely scratch the surface of my enduring love affair with Calcutta. Your Filter Coffee, Mr. Prasanna, serves as a constant reminder of the city's warmth and charm.
Hi Prasanna, great read about the city of joy. Once I went to a premier research all the way from Bangalore to Kolkata in a train to examine type specimens of dead ants. My joy was short lived when i saw the crumbling state of infrastructure in the institute. Many of the type specimens had been eaten away by other ants! The ant boxes were empty with only labels on the outside!
Good morning Prasanna! What an apt day to narrate Kolkata. Today is Poila Boisak or the Bengali New Year.
Truly it is a City filled with Joy. It’s not just about rickshaw drivers or slums but the best part of the city is being truly cosmopolitan. People across India and globally have settled in this city since long. Culturally it’s so rich and diverse that it embraces with ease any one who comes to this city. Leave alone the Durga Pujo, cinema, theatre, Uttam Kumar, Hemant Kumar, Salil Chaudhary, R D Burman, S D Burman, Satyajit Ray, Mrinal Sen, Ritwik Ghatak, Soumitra Chatterjee, Rabindra Sadan, China Town, Park Street, Maidan, Victoria Memorial, The Star Theatre, Kalighat and Dakshineswar temple, The Ganges, Howrah & Sealdah Railway Station, Ambi Yellow Cabs, Nizam’s Kebab, Aminia’s Biriyani, Shyambazar Gol Bari Kasha Mangsho ( mutton) & luchi ( small maida phulkas), tea in earthen cups, Esplanade, Jhal Muri, Alu Chop, the Pice Hotel, College Street, the great Coffee House, BBD Bag, Writers Building, St Paul’s Cathedral, Belur Math, Sunderbans, Ferry services etc etc etc. It’s just Nostalgic!
Hi Prasanna, I was delighted to read about Kolkotta as my stint in ITC group for over 9 years took me to Kolkotta very often. I loved the city and to just enjoy the different modes of transport I once took a trip from Tolly to Howrah and back through metro, Tram, auto and taxi. There are many many anecdotes but do not want to crowd your column - just that once I did not get my salary on time and the helpless guy at HO said Amar everyone in Grindlays is at the football match, what can I do.
Lastly on mixing up of names when I got my first job in AF Ferguson & Co the leading CA firm in those days and I proudly told someone about it - he said great, they make good tractors - Massey Fergusson
How lovely to read about your experience of being and working in Calcutta/Kolkata! It is to this day one of my favourite cities, although 30 years ago, I did not think so. Then one really hot summer in May 2016, when no one else wanted to go there to do some project evaluations, I agreed to do so. I spent a month there, staying in a small hotel on the lower end of Park Street, travelling out during the day only when I had to visit an NGO. The city practically shut down from 11 am - 4 pm. Early mornings I would walk to a street corner for a street-vendor chai. I spent the cooler evenings in walks to buy shingadas, mishti doi or shankh (a mild milk-jaggery sweet) which I grew to love. Cabbies would curse the government, talk politics, philosophy and history in equal measure. The people in general, from various walks of life, were so open in their welcome and courtesy. They loved that I loved and sang Bengali songs. This is one of my evergreen memories of Calcutta.
The tram used to have just 2 bogies (cars), the 1st class at the front and the 2nd class tagging behind. The 1st class used to have cushion seat and fan, while the 2nd class had wooden seat with no fan. We always used to travel by 2nd class. My sister and I used to pester our father for the 1st class and he used to reply: "No means no. I can't afford the 1st class fare (which those days used to be 13 paisa vis-a-vis 10 paisa for the 2nd class). That incident taught us the value of money, not then but many many years later
The man whom you called BANNER ji could also be CHATTER ji as he would be incessantly shouting the slogans while marching. The one thing you missed out was BANDHS, the reds gave to the nation. . The bandhs were very violent leading to several deaths. The city would come to its knees. It was Dr. B.C. Roy who brought peace to the city. But it is back to its violent ways. The Maidan to Kolkata is like marine drive to Mumbai. It is only in Kolkata that you still see the good old Ambassadors plying. They love it.
As an adult, I had the opportunity to visit Kolkata, fondly known as the "City of Joy," with my parents and brother. It was an enchanting journey that left an indelible mark on my heart and created memories that I cherish to this day.
One of the highlights of our trip was tasting the famous K C Das rosogolla. We delved into the indulgence of these soft, syrupy, and utterly delectable sweet treats. Every bite was a burst of pleasure, and it became a must-have dessert during our stay in Kolkata.
Another culinary delight we enjoyed was devouring the flavorful Chowmein. Kolkata's street food scene was a revelation for our taste buds. In the bustling streets, we savored the unique flavors and aromas of this lightly spiced noodles dish, relishing every mouthful as if it was an adventure on its own.
During our visit in 1991, we experienced the India's first underground metro line. As we eagerly stepped aboard, the excitement was palpable. The futuristic train whisked us through the labyrinthine network, providing us with a whole new perspective of the city beneath the surface. It was a thrilling experience, marked by the clatter of the tracks, the rush of wind, and the vibrant energy of the metro.
Beyond these specific experiences, Kolkata itself left an impression for its vibrant culture, bustling markets, and colonial architectural wonders. We explored the iconic Howrah Bridge, visited the enchanting Victoria Memorial, and strolled along the lively streets of Park Street. The city's rich history and artistic flair were evident at every turn, leaving us in awe of its charm.
But what truly made our visit to Kolkata memorable was the people. We encountered warm and welcoming locals who embraced us with open arms, exuding a sense of joy and contentment despite life's many challenges. It was this pervasive spirit of happiness and resilience that lent Kolkata its well-deserved title, the "City of Joy."
Looking back, our childhood visit to Kolkata remains an unforgettable chapter in our lives. It was a journey filled with culinary delights, intriguing adventures, and the warm embrace of a vibrant city. The memories we created during that trip continue to evoke a sense of joy and nostalgia, reminding us of the captivating essence of Kolkata - a city that truly lives up to its nickname.
Thank you, Mr Prasanna’s your Filter Coffee on “City Of Joy” is close to my heart. I wrote an e-book “My 42-Year Tryst with Calcutta. I quote below a few of my many experiences from this book:
KC DAS Rasagollas are famous all over the country and you get them everywhere, but my favourite is Ganguram’s Misti Dhoi.
Durga Puja during my 14 years, I was overwhelmed by the magic of Bengal and it's a feeling that still remains.
Pukurs of Calcutta: In Calcutta a "Pukur" refers to a man-made pond or small artificial lake. Pukurs have been an important part of Kolkata's culture and heritage. Historically, owning a Pukur is seen as a status symbol of wealth and power. One of my friends humorously explained this said that for giving a daughter in marriage, the prospective groom must own three things: PUKUR (POND), KUKUR (DOG) AND BARI (HOUSE). Pukur to ensure that the daughter gets fresh fish on the dining table, the dog to take care of her security and the house to stay with dignity.
New Market: This massive shopping complex, in Lindsay Street, offers everything one might need, including jewellery. It has many lanes and bye lanes within the complex and a new person is likely to get lost in this maze. Rehman & Sons was a famous shop for inexpensive quality garments. Occasionally you can spot film personalities like Aparna Sen.
Once when three of my colleagues from Hyderabad sought my help in shopping. I took them to 6/7 shops in New Market for different items. One of my colleagues jokingly said, “Ramana, you are so familiar with these shops, tell me, do they pay you weekly or monthly?”
Political rallies & Bandhs: These are very common in Calcutta. When a Political rally was planned to Writers Building, people travelling by train were advised to leave 2/3 hours in advance to cover a distance of even 6 kms. On one such occasion, my colleague from Hyderabad and I were to travel by Black Diamond Express to Dhanbad to attend an important meeting.
Despite leaving the office at 2-30 PM to catch the train scheduled to depart at 5 PM, at 4-15 PM the traffic came to a grinding halt at Strand Road. That was when I understood why the road was named that! Howrah Bridge was jammed. Our Driver said “Sir, it is impossible to reach Howrah Station by Car, I suggest that you walk across to Babu Ghat, take the ferry and you will be able to reach faster and catch the train.
Without wasting time, we picked up our overnighter bags and hurried to the Babu Ghat, with only 25 minutes left for departure of the train. To our dismay we found a long line for ferry tickets. We were crest fallen and decided to go back. Then a good Samaritan who was watching our dilemma suggested that we travel without ticket and pay double the fare as penalty at the destination. We followed his advice and when we reached the other end we were aghast that the line was double for payment of penalty. We were so near and yet so far. The gentleman who advised seized the situation and said “Don’t worry friends, I have a season ticket book, please take two tickets from me.”
We gratefully accepted the tickets but didn’t have 80 paise change to pay. I pulled out a twenty rupee note and requested him not to bother about paying the balance, but he took out from his wallet slowly counted Rs.19.20 and paid us. We profusely thanked him, dashed from there and got into a running train.
These anecdotes merely scratch the surface of my enduring love affair with Calcutta. Your Filter Coffee, Mr. Prasanna, serves as a constant reminder of the city's warmth and charm.
Hi Prasanna, great read about the city of joy. Once I went to a premier research all the way from Bangalore to Kolkata in a train to examine type specimens of dead ants. My joy was short lived when i saw the crumbling state of infrastructure in the institute. Many of the type specimens had been eaten away by other ants! The ant boxes were empty with only labels on the outside!
Good morning Prasanna! What an apt day to narrate Kolkata. Today is Poila Boisak or the Bengali New Year.
Truly it is a City filled with Joy. It’s not just about rickshaw drivers or slums but the best part of the city is being truly cosmopolitan. People across India and globally have settled in this city since long. Culturally it’s so rich and diverse that it embraces with ease any one who comes to this city. Leave alone the Durga Pujo, cinema, theatre, Uttam Kumar, Hemant Kumar, Salil Chaudhary, R D Burman, S D Burman, Satyajit Ray, Mrinal Sen, Ritwik Ghatak, Soumitra Chatterjee, Rabindra Sadan, China Town, Park Street, Maidan, Victoria Memorial, The Star Theatre, Kalighat and Dakshineswar temple, The Ganges, Howrah & Sealdah Railway Station, Ambi Yellow Cabs, Nizam’s Kebab, Aminia’s Biriyani, Shyambazar Gol Bari Kasha Mangsho ( mutton) & luchi ( small maida phulkas), tea in earthen cups, Esplanade, Jhal Muri, Alu Chop, the Pice Hotel, College Street, the great Coffee House, BBD Bag, Writers Building, St Paul’s Cathedral, Belur Math, Sunderbans, Ferry services etc etc etc. It’s just Nostalgic!
Hi Prasanna, I was delighted to read about Kolkotta as my stint in ITC group for over 9 years took me to Kolkotta very often. I loved the city and to just enjoy the different modes of transport I once took a trip from Tolly to Howrah and back through metro, Tram, auto and taxi. There are many many anecdotes but do not want to crowd your column - just that once I did not get my salary on time and the helpless guy at HO said Amar everyone in Grindlays is at the football match, what can I do.
Lastly on mixing up of names when I got my first job in AF Ferguson & Co the leading CA firm in those days and I proudly told someone about it - he said great, they make good tractors - Massey Fergusson
How lovely to read about your experience of being and working in Calcutta/Kolkata! It is to this day one of my favourite cities, although 30 years ago, I did not think so. Then one really hot summer in May 2016, when no one else wanted to go there to do some project evaluations, I agreed to do so. I spent a month there, staying in a small hotel on the lower end of Park Street, travelling out during the day only when I had to visit an NGO. The city practically shut down from 11 am - 4 pm. Early mornings I would walk to a street corner for a street-vendor chai. I spent the cooler evenings in walks to buy shingadas, mishti doi or shankh (a mild milk-jaggery sweet) which I grew to love. Cabbies would curse the government, talk politics, philosophy and history in equal measure. The people in general, from various walks of life, were so open in their welcome and courtesy. They loved that I loved and sang Bengali songs. This is one of my evergreen memories of Calcutta.
The famous tag line of Brooke Bond Red Label tea was - "In thousands of homes Good mornings begin with this - Red Label"
Hope they didn't mean Load shedding!!