Top 5 Things To Do In Kolkata This Weekend

Celebrated for its rich historical significance, artistic legacy, and delectable gastronomy, the City of Joy offers many captivating experiences. This weekend, Kolkata beckons with enthralling live music performances, opportunities to delve into the city's Victorian history, and the chance to stay at a heritage house. There's an abundance of enriching activities awaiting you this weekend as you immerse yourself in the vibrant cultural tapestry of Kolkata.

A Textiles Exhibition

The Selaighar Initiative, launched by the Society in the aftermath of Cyclone Amphan, has empowered women on Sagar Island through a six-month training program in tailoring and reviving quilt-making, an age-old tradition of Bengal. Currently, the Society has five tailoring units across Sagar Island, with one located in the highly vulnerable Ghoramara Island. The initiative offers free training in cutting and stitching. After completing the training, participants receive a six-month diploma certificate from Singer India, with examination fees covered by the Society. These women also work to revive the traditional Bengal quilt, using cotton and handloom fabrics and incorporating upcycling practices to promote sustainability. Every six months, an exhibition is held in Kolkata to showcase and sell these handmade products, including home furnishings, hand-embroidered sarees, cotton bags, and men's and women's wear. The 6th Selaighar Exhibition is this weekend. Head out to pick up gorgeous textiles, celebrate this initiative, and support talented women.

When: September 21, 12 noon to 7 pm

Where: Saroj Nalini Dutt Memorial Hall, 23/2, Ballygunge Station Rd, Golpark, Kolkata, West Bengal 700032

An Evening Of Rabindrasangeet

The late Suchitra Mitra, a renowned exponent of Rabindrasangeet, has left an indelible mark on the music world. Over 100 of Mitra's disciples, some of whom have made significant contributions to Rabindrasangeet over the years, will grace this evening. Prepare to witness the mesmerising performance of "Tasher Desh" by the students of Purabi, a signature production of Mitra. The line-up of performers will feature esteemed singers, including Mandira Mukhopadhyay, Dr. Surajit Ray, Priyam Mukhopadhyay, and Arnabneil Mukherjee. The dance segment will be directed by the legendary exponent of Rabindra Nritya, Dr. Subhashis Bhattacharyya, and Susmita Bhattacharya.

When: September 20, 5pm onwards

Where: Science City Auditorium, Mirania Gardens, East Topsia, Topsia, Kolkata, West Bengal 700105

A Day Trip To Soak In Heritage

The Rajbari Bawali is a 300-year-old boutique heritage property elegantly transformed into the best luxury heritage resort near Kolkata. You can plan a memorable day trip to this heritage site this weekend. Enjoy a day here with an elaborate lunch, a walking tour to soak in the heritage and grandeur, and indulge in evening snacks at the farmhouse. The Bawali Farmhouse offers a refreshing change with a more rustic ambience, yet it retains the beauty of nature. There are cottages and tree houses available as accommodation options. Spend the day here while the children can enjoy the play area, allowing you to relax and enjoy a delicious lunch and snacks by the poolside, and then have dinner.

When: The day trip begins on September 21 and ends on September 22.

You can book your tickets at allevents.in/kolkata/cholo-weekend-e-bawal-kori/200027066906003

A Dance Drama

With Durga Pujo just around the corner, Kolkata is already witnessing numerous events centred around the festival. This weekend, you have the opportunity to attend "Ami Durga," a classical dance drama depicting the transformation from clay Durga to the living embodiment of Durga within each of us. The performance highlights the strength, resilience, and divinity that Durga represents.

When: September 21, 5 pm onwards

Where: Rabindra Sadan, 71, Acharya Jagdish Chandra Bose Rd, Maidan, Park Street area, Kolkata, West Bengal 700071

A Walk Through History

In colonial Calcutta during the Victorian period, a time of remarkable scientific progress and a strict moral code, coincided with the flourishing of education and literature, recognised as the Bengal Renaissance. This walk will explore Calcutta's unique Victorian social environment created through blending Victorian values, scientific and medical experimentation, and early Nationalist thought. On this guided walk, you will navigate a maze of alleyways in the Bowbazar area, uncovering places associated with artistic innovations, scientific advocacy, argumentative newspapers, true crime writing, and early Nationalist organisations. The walk is being organised by Immersive Trails-Global.

Find out more at immersivetrails.com/.

When: September 21, 7.30 am to 10.30 am