Calcutta, hasn’t changed much. And, I hope it does not. There is something very intriguing about the city – I wonder if it is the fragments of history in some nook and corner or it’s the prominence of modern day progressions. Or may be it is just the fine amalgamation of both. Definitely not to forget.. its rich, vibrant, boisterous life & culture, that will impress you instantly.
My recent visit to Kolkata, and some nearby towns and countryside was quite satisfactory. It was a photo journey, so to say… and most pictures reflected a very classic frame, so I have processed them slightly, to retain and radiate the age-old effect!
Stillness
I’d wished if time just paused. The bridge as a backdrop and the dawdling cargo ships, over the holy river Ganga, far from the rat race and hustle bustle was a perfect prop and pinch to the nostalgic feel.
The Bridge
And life was just the opposite at the other end. People, of all sorts – Babu Sahibs, Clerks, Hawkers, Peddlers.. and also probably a few… who simply came to tour the city, rushed to board these economical launches, and longed to be ferried to the opposite bank, so that they don’t get late to work.
Timeless Gaze
Many come and wait at the dockyards, aiming to reach their destinations sooner… to make their both ends meet and probably also those…who can’t afford the comforts of a taxi or a metro ride.
Tough Ride
So the river is frequented by these fishermen too, who struggle for their everyday catch.
The Window Love
Off the river, you witness these beautiful buildings that exude such intricate nuances of old, colonial architecture. The distinct wooden window frames, paints peeling off, and a home that whispers a story.
The Wait
Calcutta diary would be incomplete without mentioning these yellow colored vehicles, which stops at just a mere call “TAXI” and the driver pulls over and cranes his neck to ask “ko thai jaaben” (where to?)”
The Enchanting Victoria
This classic heritage piece, the monument, the museum, holds on to a significant past. You strangely feel you are taken back to the not so golden period, politically I mean.
Still there… The Mighty Hand Rickshaw
I was quite baffled, to see the hand rickshaws being used. Still. This can be the worst form of bearing the burden – the human burden I mean.
Nearby towns and countryside picture posts, has to wait, but will do it shortly. 🙂