Kolkata
Kolkata, formerly known as Calcutta until 2001, is the capital of the Indian state of West Bengal. Located on the east bank of the Hooghly River, this city is known for its rich cultural heritage, historical landmarks, and vibrant street life.
History
The history of Kolkata dates back to the 17th century when it was founded by the British East India Company in 1690. Job Charnock, an agent of the company, is traditionally credited with the establishment of the city, although recent research suggests that the city was built on existing settlements. Here are key historical points:
- 1690: Job Charnock established the city as a trading post.
- 1756: The Black Hole of Calcutta incident occurred, leading to British retaliation and the eventual capture of Fort William.
- 1857: During the Indian Rebellion of 1857, Kolkata was relatively unaffected, but it played a significant role in the subsequent administrative changes by the British.
- 1911: Delhi was declared the new capital of British India, diminishing Kolkata's political importance but not its commercial significance.
Cultural Significance
Kolkata is renowned for its cultural richness:
Landmarks and Attractions
Economy
Kolkata has a diverse economy with significant contributions from:
- Trade and Commerce: It serves as a major port city and has been historically pivotal in trade with the Southeast Asia region.
- IT and Software: The city has developed into a hub for IT services and software development.
- Industry: Sectors like manufacturing, steel, and chemicals continue to thrive.
Transportation
Kolkata's transport infrastructure includes:
- Metro Rail: The Kolkata Metro is India's first metro system, which has significantly reduced traffic congestion.
- Public Transport: Buses, trams, and auto-rickshaws form the backbone of the public transportation system.
Sources
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