Kolkata, the capital of West Bengal, lies on the eastern bank of the Hooghly River in eastern India. Formerly known as Calcutta, it is known for its literary heritage, arts, historic architecture and role in India’s intellectual and political life. It served as the capital of British India until 1911.
Bengali language and culture shape the city, alongside communities with roots across India and beyond. Durga Puja is a major public celebration, while football, theatre, cinema and neighbourhood gatherings are central to local life. Commerce, services, information technology and port-related activity support its economy. Landmarks include Howrah Bridge, Victoria Memorial, the Indian Museum and College Street’s bookshops.
Residents commonly focus on public transport, road congestion, air quality, drainage and monsoon waterlogging. Other civic priorities include reliable water supplies, waste management, affordable housing, heritage conservation and accessible public spaces. Maintaining older neighbourhoods while improving infrastructure remains an important concern.
