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West Bengal, located in the eastern part of India, has a rich history and culture. Kolkata is the capital of West Bengal. Kolkata became the capital of British India in 1772 and remained so until 1911, playing an important role in the region’s history and administration. The city is famous for its unique architecture, which combines colonial and traditional Indian styles, showcasing its diverse heritage.
Overview of Kolkata
Kolkata, capital of West Bengal old name was Calcutta, each aspect of the city, from its name to its geographical setting, contributes to its unique character and significance in India’s narrative.
Etymology: Kolkata got its name from “Kôlikata” and started as a small village before becoming a big city. It used to be a significant place for British trade and was the capital until 1911. It played a crucial role in the Bengal Renaissance and has a rich cultural history.
History: Kolkata, once called Calcutta, has a long and interesting history. It all began in 1690 when the English East India Company arrived here to expand their trade in Bengal. The city’s roots go way back to the times of the Maurya and Gupta empires, and it has been an important trading center for many years. In 1772, Kolkata became the capital of British India, which brought a lot of factories and a mix of Indian and European cultures. In 2001, the government of West Bengal officially changed the city’s name to Kolkata, recognizing its enduring importance and heritage.
Geography: Kolkata is located near the Hooghly River in the Ganges Delta. It has flat land and a tropical climate. The city is a mix of different cultures, seen in its diverse population, lifestyle, and celebrations.
Economy: Economically, Kolkata has changed from being a colonial trading center to a modern city with various industries like steel, IT, and textiles. It is famous for its educational institutions and cultural heritage, making it an important part of India’s economy and culture.
Capital of West Bengal Before Kolkata
Before Kolkata became the capital of Bengal, Murshidabad was the capital of West Bengal. Nawab Murshid Quli Khan, in the early 18th century, selected it as the capital due to its strategic location. During the Mughal era, Murshidabad prospered as a bustling center for both commerce and culture. It was renowned for its splendid architecture and active trade, especially in textiles.
However, its importance diminished after the British East India Company’s victory in the Battle of Plassey in 1757. Consequently, the capital was shifted to Kolkata in 1772, leading to significant changes in the region’s politics and economy. Today, Murshidabad serves as a living reminder of its rich historical heritage.
Overview of West Bengal
- History: West Bengal, located in the eastern part of India, has a rich and diverse history. It was once part of several empires and dynasties, including the Mauryas and Guptas. During India’s fight for independence, Kolkata (formerly Calcutta) served as the capital of British India until 1911. After India gained independence in 1947, West Bengal was created when the province of Bengal was divided along religious lines, leading to the formation of East Pakistan (now Bangladesh).
- Geography: West Bengal has a varied geography, ranging from the Himalayan mountains in the north to the coastal areas in the south. It shares borders with Bangladesh, Bhutan, and Nepal. The state features forests, rivers (like the Ganges and Hooghly), and the Sundarbans, the world’s largest mangrove forest, which is home to the Royal Bengal Tiger.
- Economy: West Bengal’s economy is diverse, with agriculture, industry, and services playing significant roles. The state is a major producer of rice, tea, potatoes, and jute. Kolkata, the capital city, is an important financial and commercial center. In recent years, the IT and ITeS sectors have also grown in importance.
- Demographics: West Bengal is the fourth most populous state in India and has a diverse population with various ethnic groups and communities. Kolkata is the largest city and a vital cultural and educational hub.
- Languages: The official language of West Bengal is Bengali, spoken by the majority of the population. English is widely used, particularly in education, business, and administration. Other languages, including Hindi, Nepali, and Urdu, are spoken by minority communities.
- Religion: West Bengal is known for its religious diversity, with Hinduism as the predominant religion, followed by Islam. Smaller portions of the population practice other religions such as Christianity, Buddhism, and Sikhism. The state is famous for its religious festivals like Durga Puja and Eid.
- Culture: The culture of West Bengal is rich and diverse, known for its contributions to literature, music, dance, and cinema. The state has produced some of India’s most renowned poets, writers, filmmakers, and Nobel laureates, including Rabindranath Tagore and Satyajit Ray. Bengali cuisine, with its focus on fish and rice, is a significant part of the state’s cultural identity. Traditional crafts like Kantha embroidery and terracotta pottery are well-known. West Bengal’s cultural calendar is filled with various festivals, art exhibitions, and cultural events, making it a vibrant place that blends tradition with modernity.
FAQs on Capital of West Bengal
Who changed Calcutta to Kolkata?
The government of West Bengal changed the name of Calcutta to Kolkata in 2001 to reflect the Bengali pronunciation and cultural identity of the city.
Why did Kolkata change its name?
Kolkata changed its name from Calcutta to honor its Bengali heritage. The new name, Kolkata, is closer to the Bengali pronunciation and represents the city's original and authentic identity.
What is the capital of West Bengal?
Kolkata is the capital of West Bengal, which is now known as Bangladesh. It was part of the Bengal region before the partition in 1947.
Which river is the capital of West Bengal?
The Hooghly River flows through the capital of West Bengal, Kolkata. The city is situated on the eastern bank of this distributary of the Ganges River.
What is the new name of Calcutta?
The new name of Calcutta is Kolkata. The change was made in 2001 to reflect the city's Bengali pronunciation and cultural roots more accurately.
