Window Photography School is set to present an exceptional photographic exhibition titled “From the Streets to Souls of Heritage - The Essence of Pathuriaghata and Its Neighbourhood”, featuring 40 evocative black-and-white images. These captivating photographs, taken by the school’s talented members, offer a profound glimpse into the rich heritage of North Kolkata. The exhibition will be hosted at the iconic Hara-Kutir gallery from 2nd October 2024 (Mahalaya) to 12th October 2024 (Nabami), coinciding with the vibrant Durga Puja festival.
The exhibition holds special significance as it is the first of its kind to be showcased at Hara-Kutir, a 300-year-old heritage site named after Shri Haraprasad Banerjee, a saint and scholar. The historic building itself is deeply connected to Kolkata’s cultural and spiritual fabric, having hosted luminaries such as Thakur Ramakrishna Paramhansa Dev.
Showcasing North Kolkata’s Timeless Heritage
The narrow lanes, majestic colonial-era houses, and spiritual landmarks of North Kolkata provide a wealth of inspiration for this exhibition. Jorasanko Thakurbari, the residence of Nobel Laureate Rabindranath Tagore, stands as a symbol of the Bengal Renaissance. Nearby, the ancestral home of Swami Vivekananda, now a museum, continues to inspire generations with the teachings and life of the great spiritual leader.
Hara-Kutir itself is a testament to Kolkata’s cultural and spiritual heritage, making it a fitting venue for an exhibition that explores the heart and soul of the city’s historic Pathuriaghata neighbourhood.
What sets this exhibition apart is its unique blend of art, history, and culture. The photographs provide a visual narrative that links the past to the present, allowing viewers to appreciate the continuity of tradition amidst modernity. With the Durga Puja festival as the backdrop, the exhibition becomes a celebration of not only Kolkata’s rich heritage but also the spirit of resilience and community that continues to thrive in these historical neighborhoods. Retro Kolkata Magazine, as a proud supporter, hopes that this exhibition will inspire a deeper appreciation for the preservation of Kolkata’s cultural treasures.
The exhibition proudly features the works of a diverse group of photographers who have come together to celebrate the cultural richness of North Kolkata. Among the talented exhibitors are Mahasweta Bhadra, who captures moments that reveal the beauty of the world; Neha Sharma, a multifaceted artist with skills in filmmaking and writing, dedicated to crafting real-life stories; and Manas Sengupta, who finds inspiration in the daily lives of Kolkata’s streets. Other participants include Anindita Nag Chowdhury, whose heart-driven captures resonate deeply; Suvrajit Sarkar, who crafts frames that convey powerful stories; and Sankhamala Biswas (Doyel), whose passion for freezing moments fuels her artistic growth. Also exhibiting are Chiranjit Das, Tubai Dey, Goutam Podder, Subhankar Bhaduri, Riten Chatterjee, and Suparna Chatterjee, each bringing a unique perspective to their photography, capturing emotions, candid moments, and the essence of everyday life.
Guiding and mentoring these talented photographers are distinguished mentors, including Raj Sarkar, Sandipan Mukherjee, Sankar Ghosh, Lincon Saha, Rajib De, and Deb Lahiri. Their expertise and dedication have helped shape the vision of this extraordinary exhibition, ensuring that each photograph reflects the soul of Kolkata’s heritage and its people.
Exhibition Highlights :
Heritage in Focus: The photographs, presented in six clusters, showcase the architectural grandeur and cultural vibrancy of North Kolkata, from its ancient temples to its colonial-era mansions.
Cultural Resonance: Each photograph tells a story, capturing the essence of the community and its enduring traditions.
Historical Context: The exhibition offers viewers not just stunning visuals but also insightful historical context, enriching their understanding of the region’s cultural significance.
Exhibition Details :
Venue: Hara-Kutir, Pathuriaghata, North Kolkata
Dates: 2nd October 2024 (Mahalaya) to 12th October 2024 (Nabami), during Durga Puja
Organized by: Window Photography School
This exhibition promises to be a remarkable journey through Kolkata’s heritage, offering a window into the past while celebrating the city’s timeless cultural legacy. Visitors can experience first hand the architectural beauty and historical significance of North Kolkata through the skilled lens of photographers dedicated to preserving the soul of this vibrant neighbourhood.
