Local Guide

Kolkata is the capital of West Bengal and famous for its culture. Film, poetry, music, art and dance all have their devotees here. During the British Raj Kolkata was known as the Jewel of the East and was the capital of the country until 1911. Today, it is the most important city in the east, and the nerve centre of trade and industry of the state. Victoria Memorial: this splendid architectural structure in white marble, modeled on the Taj Mahal, was built in the early 20th century. Indian Museum: established in 1878 and built in Italian renaissance style, the museum is considered the largest in the country and one of the best in Asia.St Paul's Cathedral: one of India's most important churches.

Local Events

Netaji's Birthday

23 Jan

Birthday of the famous freedom fighter Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose, who founded the Azad Hind army to fight against British Rule in India and coined the Indian salute of Jai Hind. Born a Bengali, Netaji remains Begal's favourite freedom fighter and national hero. The day is a state holiday.

Republic Day

26 Jan

India's 63rd Republic Day commemorates India's complete self-governance in 1950 after the British government had to relinquish power in 1947. Every state capital organises a parade and the national flag is unfurled in all schools and government institutions. The day is a national holiday.

Holi - festival of colours

8 Mar

Holi is celebrated all over India with much enthusiasm, especially in northern India, as it heralds the onset of spring and harvest time. Known as Doljatra in West Bengal, the festival is celebrated with dry and wet colours, traditional sweets, music and gaiety.
8 Mar 2012

Poila Boishakh - Bengali New Year

14 Apr

The Bengali New Year heralds the beginning of another year in the Bengali calendar. All local businesses reopen new books of accounts on this day and invite their patrons for a celebration on their premises.
14 Apr 2012

Janmashtami

9 Aug

The day marks the birth of one of the most popular deities of Hinduism, Lord Krishna, who is the Avatar or reincarnation of Lord Vishnu. Celebrated all over India with night-long prayers and ceremony.
9 Aug 2012

Independence Day

15 Aug

India gained its independence from centuries of British rule on 15th August 1947. This will be India's 66th Indepence Day. The day is a national holiday and of the utmost importance to Indians.
15 Aug 2012