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Unveiling the Enigmatic Essence of Calcutta: A Literary Exploration

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Published in Calcutta Geoffrey Moorhouse

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Calcutta

by Geoffrey Moorhouse

4.6 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	2795 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	410 pages

In the heart of West Bengal, cradled by the mighty Ganges River, lies Calcutta, a city steeped in history, vibrant with culture, and pulsating with an enigmatic essence. Geoffrey Moorhouse, in his literary masterpiece "Calcutta," takes us on an evocative journey, unraveling the intricate tapestry of this fascinating metropolis.

A Bygone Era: The Colonial Past

Calcutta During The British Raj Calcutta Geoffrey Moorhouse

Calcutta's genesis can be traced back to the mid-17th century, when the East India Company established a trading post on the banks of the Hooghly River. Over time, the British Raj transformed the city into the "second city" of the empire, after London. Moorhouse vividly evokes the grandeur of this era, the opulence of the British elite and the burgeoning middle class, and the stark contrasts between the colonial rulers and the colonized population.

The Birth of a Nation: Indian Independence

Calcutta During Indian Independence Calcutta Geoffrey Moorhouse

The struggle for Indian independence reached its zenith in the 20th century, and Calcutta played a pivotal role in the movement. Moorhouse recounts the city's transformation into a hub of nationalist fervor, the emergence of inspiring leaders like Subhas Chandra Bose, and the tumultuous events leading to the partition of India.

A City of Refugees: Partition and its Aftermath

Calcutta During The Partition Of India Calcutta Geoffrey Moorhouse

The partition of India in 1947 left an indelible scar on Calcutta. Millions of refugees flooded the city, fleeing violence and displacement. Moorhouse captures the humanitarian crisis that ensued, the resilience of the people, and the city's struggle to absorb and integrate this massive influx.

Transformation and Modernity

Calcutta In The 21st Century Calcutta Geoffrey Moorhouse

Post-independence, Calcutta underwent significant economic and social changes. Moorhouse traces the city's transformation into a major cultural and educational hub, renowned for its literature, art, and cinema. He also explores the challenges of urbanization, pollution, and poverty that continue to plague the city.

Literary Heritage

Calcutta's Literary Giants Calcutta Geoffrey Moorhouse

Calcutta has nurtured some of India's greatest literary minds, including Rabindranath Tagore, Bankim Chandra Chattopadhyay, and Satyajit Ray. Moorhouse delves into the literary legacy of the city, examining the works of these literary giants and their enduring influence on Indian and global literature.

Geoffrey Moorhouse's "Calcutta" is a captivating exploration of a city that defies easy definition. Through his evocative prose and meticulous research, he unveils the historical, cultural, and human complexities that shape the enigmatic essence of Calcutta. From the colonial era to the modern day, this book is an indispensable guide to understanding the rich tapestry of one of India's most fascinating cities.

Calcutta

by Geoffrey Moorhouse

4.6 out of 5