Capital of West Bengal (Kolkata): History, Population, Food, Climate

Capital of West Bengal: The capital of West Bengal is Kolkata. It is a major cultural, commercial, and educational hub in eastern India, known for its historical significance and vibrant cultural heritage.

Formerly known as Calcutta, Kolkata is the capital city of West Bengal and the third-most populous metropolitan area in India. It is famous for its colonial architecture, literary heritage, and artistic contributions, Kolkata serves as a key center for commerce, finance, and culture in the region.

In this article, We have covered about the Capital of West Bengal (Kolkata), the History linked to it, it’s Population Food, Tourism, Climate, and many more.

Let’s dive right in.

Capital Of West Bengal – Kolkata

• Name: Kolkata
• Former Name: Calcutta
• Area: 206.1 km²
• Elevation: 9.14 m
• Population: 1.49 crores (2020)
• Location: Capital city of West Bengal, India
• Significance: Major cultural, commercial, and educational hub
• Population: Third-most populous metropolitan area in India
• Heritage: Known for colonial architecture and vibrant cultural heritage
• Literary Hub: Renowned for its literary contributions and artistic heritage
• Economic Center: Key center for commerce, finance, and trade in the region
• Historical Role: Played a crucial role in the Indian independence movement
• Diversity: Melting pot of diverse cultures and traditions.

The capital city of West Bengal, Kolkata, has some important characteristics; one of them is its location along the bank of the Hooghly, a tributary of the Ganges. This feature makes this city a favorable choice for trading and commerce through waterways, which have been utilized for centuries.

The Kolkata Port is the oldest in India. For years, it has played an important role in the trade and business activities locally and across India. Kolkata maintains a significant position as a city with modern facilities while carrying the traditional flavors in culture, education, architecture, transport, and many other areas.

Capital City Of West Bengal – Facts

The following are some facts about the Capital City of West Bengal:

Category	Details
Capital City	Kolkata
Former Name	Calcutta
Location	West Bengal, India
Adjacent States	Haryana (east), Punjab (south, west, and north)
Significance	Major cultural, commercial, and educational hub
Population	Third-most populous metropolitan area in India
Heritage	Known for colonial architecture and vibrant cultural heritage
Literary Hub	Renowned for literary contributions and artistic heritage
Economic Center	Key center for commerce, finance, and trade in the region
Historical Role	Played a crucial role in the Indian independence movement
Cultural Diversity	Melting pot of diverse cultures and traditions
Urban Design and Architecture	Well-known for its planned urban design and architecture
Architect	Designed by Swiss-French architect Le Corbusier
Planning	One of the earliest planned cities in post-independent India
Development Index	Ranked high on the Human Development Index (HDI)
Happiness Index (2015)	Ranked as the happiest city in India in a 2015 index
Official Language	English (official), Hindi (widely spoken), Punjabi (spoken)

History Of Capital Of West Bengal

The following is the history of West Bengal – Kolkata:

• Pre-Colonial Era: Before the arrival of the British, the area where Kolkata stands today was part of the Bengal region under various indigenous rulers, including the Nawabs of Bengal.
• British East India Company: In 1690, Job Charnock, an agent of the British East India Company, is said to have founded the settlement of Calcutta. The British established a trading post, which later became a significant center for the East India Company’s operations.
• Colonial Period: Calcutta became the capital of British India in 1772 and remained so until 1911 when the capital was officially moved to Delhi. During this period, the city flourished as a major hub for trade, commerce, and administration.
• Cultural Renaissance: The 19th century saw the emergence of the Bengal Renaissance, a cultural and intellectual movement that contributed significantly to literature, art, social reform, and education. Prominent figures like Rabindranath Tagore and Swami Vivekananda were part of this cultural awakening.
• Independence Movement: Kolkata played a pivotal role in the Indian independence movement. The city witnessed numerous protests, movements, and gatherings, with leaders like Subhas Chandra Bose and Netaji using it as a base for their activities.
• Post-Independence Period: After India gained independence in 1947, Kolkata continued to be a major cultural and commercial center. The city faced economic challenges and political changes, including periods of industrial decline.
• Renaming: In 2001, the official name of the city was changed from Calcutta to Kolkata to reflect the pronunciation in the local Bengali language.

Kolkata As A Capital City

Here are some more facts about Chandigarh:

Famous Places in Kolkata	Details
Victoria Memorial	Iconic marble structure dedicated to Queen Victoria.
	Blend of British and Mughal architecture.
	Houses a museum with historical artifacts.
Howrah Bridge	Iconic cantilever bridge over the Hooghly River.
	Connects Howrah and Kolkata.
	Spectacular views and a bustling traffic landmark.
Indian Museum	Oldest and largest museum in India.
	Extensive collection of art, antiques, and artifacts.
	Founded in 1814.
Dakshineswar Kali Temple	Hindu temple dedicated to Goddess Kali.
	Located on the eastern bank of the Hooghly River.
Kalighat Kali Temple	One of the 51 Shakti Peethas, dedicated to Goddess Kali.
	Pilgrimage site with a vibrant atmosphere.
Science City Kolkata	Science and technology center with interactive exhibits.
	Features a Space Odyssey and Evolution Park.
Belur Math	Headquarters of the Ramakrishna Math and Mission.
	Architectural masterpiece with a serene setting along the Hooghly River.
Marble Palace	19th-century mansion with a stunning marble facade.
	Houses an eclectic collection of sculptures, paintings, and artifacts.
Birla Planetarium	Oldest planetarium in Asia.
	Offers educational shows on astronomy.

City Information – Kolkata:

Category	Details
Nickname	The City of Joy
Country	India
Formation	24 August 1690
Capital	Kolkata
Chief Minister	Smt. Mamata Banerjee
Population (2021)	Approximately 4.85 million
Area	185 km²
Density	26,154/km²
Official Language	Bengali, English
GDP (2022-23)	₹10.85 trillion (US$140 billion)
Per Capita GDP	₹223, 000 (US$3,000)
Time Zone	IST (UTC+05:30)
ISO 3166 code	IN-WB
Vehicle Registration	WB
HDI (2017–2018)	0.677 (Medium)
Literacy (2021)	87.14%
Sex Ratio (2021)	916♀/1000 ♂
Website	kmc.gov.in

Symbols:

Category	Symbol
Bird	White-throated Kingfisher
Flower	Night-flowering Jasmine (Shiuli)
Fruit	Jackfruit
Mammal	Fishing Cat
Tree	Chatim (Devil’s Tree)

Population Of Kolkata – West Bengal’s Capital

Kolkata, ranked as the seventh most populous city in India, boasts an estimated city proper population of 4.5 million (0.45 crore). Additionally, serving as the nucleus of the Kolkata Metropolitan Region, it stands among the most densely populated metropolitan areas globally, housing over 15 million residents (1.5 crore).

Kolkata’s demographic landscape extends beyond its city limits, encompassing the Kolkata Metropolitan Region. With a population exceeding 15 million residents (1.5 crore), this metropolitan area represents a bustling and densely populated urban expanse, making it one of the most populous metropolitan regions globally.

Language Of Kolkata

The primary language spoken in Kolkata, the capital of West Bengal, is Bengali (Bangla). Bengali is the official language of the state and is widely used for communication in Kolkata and throughout West Bengal. The majority of the population in the region speaks Bengali.

Many residents of Kolkata are proficient in English, and it is often used as a second language for official and commercial purposes. Some people in Kolkata understand Hindi, and there are communities speaking various languages, showing the city’s diverse culture and language mix.

Culture Of Kolkata – West Bengal’s Capital

Kolkata, the capital city of West Bengal, India, is known for its rich cultural heritage, historical significance, and vibrant traditions. The city has played a crucial role in the country’s history and has been a center for social, political, and cultural movements.

Art and Literature:

Kolkata has produced some of the most renowned poets, writers, and artists in India. The city has a strong literary tradition and has been home to figures like Rabindranath Tagore, the first non-European Nobel laureate in Literature. The city hosts numerous literary festivals, book fairs, and cultural events that celebrate the written word.

Durga Puja:

Durga Puja is the most significant and widely celebrated festival in Kolkata. The city comes alive with elaborate decorations, artistic installations (pandals), cultural performances, and processions during this time. The idol of Goddess Durga is the centerpiece of the festivities, and thousands of pandals across the city compete for the most creative and innovative designs.

Cuisine:

Kolkata is famous for its diverse and delicious food. The city is known for its street food, including iconic dishes like phuchka (pani puri), kathi rolls, and sweets like rasgulla and sandesh. Bengali cuisine, with its emphasis on fish, rice, and various sweets, is an integral part of Kolkata’s culinary identity.

Cultural Festivals:

Apart from Durga Puja, Kolkata hosts various other cultural festivals throughout the year, celebrating music, dance, theater, and more. The Kolkata Film Festival is a significant event that attracts filmmakers and cinema enthusiasts from around the world.

Music and Performing Arts:

Kolkata has a thriving music scene, with a strong influence of classical, folk, and contemporary genres. The city has produced legendary musicians like Ravi Shankar and Ustad Ali Akbar Khan. Classical dance forms, theater, and contemporary performing arts are also cherished in Kolkata, with numerous cultural events and performances taking place regularly.

Historical Landmarks:

The city is home to many historical landmarks, including the Victoria Memorial, Howrah Bridge, Marble Palace, and Indian Museum. These places not only showcase the architectural beauty but also represent the historical and cultural evolution of the city.

Adda Culture:

Kolkata is known for its “adda” culture, where people gather for informal intellectual discussions. Coffee houses like the iconic Indian Coffee House and College Street Coffee House have been the traditional hubs for such conversations.

Festivals and Celebrations:

Kolkata celebrates various festivals with great enthusiasm, including Diwali, Eid, Christmas, and Holi. Each festival brings its own set of cultural rituals and celebrations.

Capital Of West Bengal – Famous Food

The following are some Famous food of Capital of West Bengal:

• Fish Delicacies: Kolkata is famous for its love of fish. Hilsa, Rohu, and Katla are popular fish varieties used in various preparations. Mustard-based fish curries, such as “Shorshe Ilish” (Hilsa in mustard sauce), are highly prized.
• Sweets and Desserts: Kolkata is a paradise for those with a sweet tooth. Iconic sweets include “Rosogolla,” “Sandesh,” “Mishti Doi,” and “Cham Cham.” Sweet shops like K.C. Das and Balaram Mullick & Radharaman Mullick are celebrated for their traditional Bengali sweets.
• Street Food: Kolkata is renowned for its vibrant street food culture. “Kathi Rolls,” originating from Nizam’s in the city, are a popular snack. “Phuchka” (pani puri), “Churmur,” and “Jhalmuri” are among the lip-smacking street food options available.
• Bengali Cuisine: Traditional Bengali meals often include dishes like “Shorshe Ilish” (mustard fish), “Bhapa Ilish” (steamed fish), and “Macher Jhol” (fish curry). Vegetable preparations like “Aloo Posto” (potatoes in poppy seed paste) and “Shorshe Potol” (pointed gourd in mustard sauce) are popular.
• Biryani: Kolkata has its unique take on Biryani, sub-variant of Awadhi cuisine. “Kolkata Biryani” typically includes flavorful rice, meat (often goat or chicken), aromatic spices and specifically Potato.
• Chinese Cuisine: The city has a long-standing love affair with Chinese food. Tangra, a neighborhood in Kolkata, is known for its Chinese restaurants serving dishes like “Chilli Chicken” and “Hakka Noodles.”
• Tea Culture: Tea plays a significant role in Kolkata’s culture. “Adda” (informal conversations) over a cup of tea is a cherished tradition. Street-side tea stalls, known as “chaiwallas,” offer a variety of teas, from the strong “Kadak Chai” to the aromatic “Masala Chai.”

Climate Of Capital Of West Bengal

The climate of the capital of West Bengal, Kolkata, is characterized by a tropical wet-and-dry climate, influenced by its proximity to the Bay of Bengal. The are description about the Climate of Capital of West Bengal:

Climate	Description
Summer (March to June)	Summers in Kolkata are hot and humid. Temperatures can soar, with daytime temperatures often reaching above 40°C (104°F). The humidity levels are high, making the weather uncomfortable.
Monsoon (June to September)	The monsoon season brings relief from the scorching heat. Heavy rainfall occurs, especially in July and August, due to the southwest monsoon. Kolkata receives a significant amount of rainfall during this period.
Autumn (October to November)	Post-monsoon, the weather gradually becomes more pleasant. Temperatures start to decrease, and humidity levels reduce. Autumn is a transitional period leading to the winter season.
Winter (December to February)	Winters in Kolkata are mild and relatively dry. Daytime temperatures range between 9°C to 20°C (48°F to 68°F), making it a comfortable and enjoyable season. The city experiences cool evenings and nights during this period.

Transportation Diversity In Kolkata

In Kolkata, you can enjoy the experience of traveling using various transport methods. Hand-pulled rickshaws, buses, taxis, and trams are continuing operations from the British period. Kolkata achieved a prominent position in the map of Indian Railways when the underground railway services were introduced in Kolkata in 1986, the first of its kind in India. The underground railway known as Kolkata Metro has extended its network connecting north-south and east-west corridors. It plans to move under the Ganges to connect Kolkata and Howrah. The Howrah Bridge or Rabindra Setu Connects, is the oldest bridge built over the Hooghly River and a landmark of Kolkata as featured in movies, arts, and literature.

Other bridges like Vidyasagar Setu and Nivedita Setu over the Hooghly River also help ease the traffic flow between Kolkata and Howrah. Kolkata is connected to other parts of the country and Bangladesh through National Highways. With rapid change in the urban culture, the city observes a rapid increase in privately owned vehicles that cause traffic congestion and parking problems in most parts of the city and make daily commutes time-consuming.

Conclusion

Kolkata, the capital of West Bengal has gone through many changes but maintained its identity. The city of Kolkata has embraced rich traditions of accepting diverse cultures and people. The city life is quite fast and busy with a lot of challenges but there is involvement and encouragement for pursuing social and intellectual activities that gives a refreshing experience. With a blend of traditional as well as modern lifestyle, delicious foods and sweets, and cultural colorfulness, this city becomes a fascinating place to explore and enjoy.

Related Resources:

• British Control Over The Bengal 
• Capital of Rajasthan – Jaipur
• List of Districts in West Bengal: Area, Population,Geographical
• Capital of Punjab (Chandigarh): History, Economy, Tourism

Capital Of West Bengal (Kolkata) – FAQs

Which Is The Capital Of West Bengal?

The capital of West Bengal is Kolkata.

What Is The New Name Of Calcutta?

The new name of Calcutta is Kolkata.

Which River Flows Through Kolkata?

The river that flows through the capital of West Bengal, Kolkata, is the Hooghly River.

What Is Ganga Called In West Bengal?

Ganga is called the Hooghly in West Bengal.

Why Is Kolkata Famous?

Kolkata is famous for its cultural heritage, literature, arts, and historical significance, including being the former capital of British India.