Marian Payne’s impressions of Calcutta!

What Did I Think of Kolkata?

“Mom, you don’t want to go to Kolkata! It’s dirty, the air is polluted, and it’s crowded. You and Beth should meet in a more pleasant place to spend some time together.” Those were the words of our son when he learned I was planning a trip to visit Beth in Kolkata. “But I want to go to Kolkata,” I
replied. “I want to see where Beth lives, works, and plays. I want to see the place she loves so much she extended her tour of service by a year!”

On December 28, 2010, I was transported to a magical place — Kolkata. Yes, there’s pollution and it’s crowded. But there’s a whole lot more. In the US, we talk about history as several hundred years, but in Kolkata, history is thousands of years! The mix of religions and cultures creates a panorama of amazing buildings, foods, dress, and languages. I never dreamed there was so much culture there.

On the Calcutta Walks’ Confluence of Cultures Walk, we walked with Manjit, our able guide, for about four hours that flew by as we explored the sights. It was very evident that Manjit knew all the nooks and crannies, the most interesting, the typical, the special places to visit. His enthusiasm created an atmosphere of anticipation and excitement as we viewed a Buddhist temple, several Jewish synagogues, as well as places of worship of Hindus, Chinese, Zoroastrians, to name a few. Manjit was well versed in the history and beliefs of each, and I was impressed by his accepting and nonjudgmental manner in
presenting the various cultures. He knew where to give us street food that was safe and we tasted a wonderful variety of delicious and unique foods. In those few hours, all within walking distance, there was more than my mind could fully comprehend. I’m so glad for this experience, and it was extra special because of Manjit’s happy personality.

I found the people of Kolkata to be most gracious and friendly. I also learned that the city is one of the safest in India, although we were warned not to be careless with our purses. As in other cities, the unsuspecting tourist can fall prey to purse snatchers.

The New Market was a panorama of colors with lots of fresh fruits, beautiful vegetables, and all kinds of food available for purchase. I enjoyed the spice market where I stocked up on the delicate saffron, which in the US is very expensive. There were so many different spices, that despite the recommendations of the “spice seller”, it was difficult to choose which other spices to purchase.

I was so amazed at the reactions of most people when they saw my camera. Many asked to have their photos taken and frequently, people thanked me for taking their photos. Seeing their pictures on my digital camera brought broad smiles and some chuckles, especially from children. Many asked where I was from, and upon learning I was from the US, they smiled and commented, “Good
country!”

It was so rewarding to be welcomed into the homes of some of Beth’s friends and to learn how folks in Kolkata live their lives. Over a bounteous typical Bengali meal, I learned of their family’s long history in Kolkata, visited their lovely garden surrounding the family Hindu temple, and felt enveloped by their most gracious hospitality. I shall cherish that memory as long as I live.

Yes, Kolkata is crowded and not very clean, but that fades into the background as I contemplate the richness, vibrant colors, huge variety of cultures, wide variety of foods, and broad smiles of the people there. I glow as I continue to feel the warmth of the hospitality experienced. I think I left a bit of myself in Kolkata somewhere.

Marian Payne, 1/27/2011