In the city of joy, Kolkata, Christmas is known as “Boro Din” meaning the Big Day. Bengali’s Christmas celebration is no less than Durga Puja. The city has transformed into a festive wonderland, adorned with fairy lights, Christmas trees and dazzling stars. From the lively Park Street to the historic Bow Barracks and gaily decorated churches, the celebration is a delightful journey. Sharing here some Merry moments from Kolkata, with Love!
“There is something magical, almost fairytalish about the Kolkata Christmas. Perhaps it is
accentuated by the weather that prevails during this time- not cold like Delhi, not warm
like Bombay. It is just the perfect weather…the bright lights, the rows of fake Christmas
trees – all of which add a certain fairytale quality to it” – Amit Chaudhuri, Author
Park Street Extravaganza
Park Street is the heart of Christmas cheer and New Year festivities. Since 2011, the state
government has been hosting a Christmas Carnival until New Year. The entire street is illuminated by dazzling lights, LED Santa statues, reindeers and Christmas trees. Sidewalk stalls beckon with fruit cakes, Santa caps and other Christmas goodies. As dawn breaks on Christmas Day, queues form at Flurys, Kolkata’s famous brunch spot, paving the way for an afternoon filled with light displays, musical extravaganzas, and a mega Christmas fair.
Allen Park’s Magical Aura
Nestled in Park Street, the quaint Allen Park has transformed into a Christmas haven, adorned with themed lights and cribs. A captivating tunnel made of lights beckons visitors, guiding them through a mesmerizing spectacle. Live musical performances enhance the festive ambiance, while stalls curated by local Anglo-Indian, Parsi and Chinese families offer delectable home-cooked savouries and handcrafted Christmas decor. The air is filled with the aroma of local delicacies, as people, donned in Santa caps, LED headbands and Christmas themed colourful goggles, soak in the joyous atmosphere.
Bow Barracks’ Bliss
The block of red-brick buildings, once part of military barracks in the British era, was home to a large number of Anglo-Indian communities. Bow Barracks now stands as a cosmopolitan charm. However, the Christmas season draws a large number of visitors here. Amidst the evolving cultural landscape, residents set up food stalls, tempting passersby with homemade wine and cakes. The spirit of Christmas thrives in this historic enclave, drawing visitors to partake in its festive allure.
St. Paul’s Cathedral’s Elegance
A jewel in Kolkata’s architectural crown, St. Paul’s Cathedral, designed in 1847 in the Gothic Revival style with Indo-Saracenic elements. Illuminated during Christmas, the cathedral becomes a sanctuary for Anglican ceremonies, carols, Midnight Mass, and heartfelt prayers. It stands as a beacon of spiritual significance, inviting visitors from far and wide to embrace the true essence of Christmas.
In Kolkata’s Christmas story, each locale adds a unique touch of tradition, community spirit, and festive splendour. As we embrace this special day, the city’s enchanting spirit invites the world to share the joyous revelry, making it’s Christmas a global celebration to remember.
