As the air-conditioned bus weaves through the bustling traffic of Kolkata, tour leader Sujoy Sen outlines the nighttime itinerary, revealing a city rich in colonial history and architecture highlighted by modern lighting. From the 157-year-old General Post Office to colonial mansions and temples, Kolkata’s heritage comes alive under the soft glow of lights.
The Kolkata Illumination Project, developed by a dedicated group of citizens known as Kolkata Restorers, aims to bring attention to these often-overlooked heritage buildings. Sujoy Sen was inspired to lead nighttime tours after discovering how stunning these sites looked when illuminated.
“I was stunned,” he recalls. “I didn’t realize Kolkata could be like Paris at night.” This sentiment is shared by many locals, who find that the illumination instills new life into the city’s historic structures.
Mudar Patherya, a key figure behind the Kolkata Restorers project, emphasizes that their mission is not just about lighting buildings but also about restoring civic pride in Kolkata's heritage. With minimal funding raised from local communities, they've illuminated nearly 100 buildings over just 21 months.
While illuminating these historic sites, challenges such as renovations have arisen. Many buildings are in disrepair, requiring restoration before they can benefit from new lighting. For instance, the Hogg Market’s iconic clock tower needed attention before it could be restored to its former glory.
“We aim to restore 200 buildings,” Patherya says, envisioning Kolkata as one of India's most beautiful cities at night. Each illuminated site tells a story, rekindling a sense of heritage and connection among its citizens.
As citizens come together to share the vision of a sparkling Kolkata, this initiative exemplifies the power of community in reshaping urban landscapes, ensuring that the city's historic past remains integral to its vibrant future.
