You see, when it comes to celebrations, Indians never disappoint. It’s Christmas in Kolkata!
Every inch of the Anglo-Indian Barracks neighborhood of Kolkata is smothered in Christmas. Strands of lights weave a web above my head, and the appropriately red walls of the brick houses are lined with Christmas banners and décor. Jingle Bell Rock, Rocking Around the Christmas Tree, an upbeat remix of Silent Night; the soundtrack blasting from the very tired speakers could rival any American shopping mall during the holiday season. I watch a mother and son examine a street vendor’s selection of plastic toys and masks.
The holiday originated in a religious and more family-oriented form. Thanks to its history as the capital of the British Raj and concerted efforts by Christian missionaries—Mother Theresa being the most famous example—Kolkata is home to a notable Bengali Christian population. In 2011 there were around 40,000 Christians living in Kolkata, and many are quite active in their communities. A Parsi woman haggles with a man over some hair accessories under the glow of neon strobe lights and the all-seeing looks of the two idols. Roaming through the knickknack and party favors shops on Mirza Ghalib street, an explosion of glittering Christmas decorations overwhelm my retinas as Top 40 Christmas Hits lists besiege my eardrums. Looking into one of the shops, I notice an old man in kurta pyjama and prayer cap peddling tinsel garlands.
Some Places :
Park Street
St. Paul's Cathdral
Bow Barrack
Victoria Memorial
New Market
ᴅᴇᴠɪᴄᴇ : Nikon D5100
©DK Cᴀᴍᴏɢʀᴀᴘʜʏ
Loved it. Amazingly represented