Kolkata

Kolkata (formerly Calcutta) is the capital of the Indian state of West Bengal. Located on the east bank of the Hooghly River, it is the major cultural, educational, and commercial centre of Eastern India.

History: Kolkata was established as a British trading post by the East India Company. The city's foundations are often attributed to Job Charnock, an administrator of the East India Company, in 1690. However, scholarly consensus points to the amalgamation of three villages - Sutanuti, Govindapur, and Kalikata - as its genesis. Fort William was constructed in 1696 to protect the settlement. Calcutta rose in prominence as the capital of British India in 1772. It remained the capital until 1911, when the capital was moved to Delhi. The city played a significant role in the Indian independence movement.

Geography: Kolkata is situated in the Ganges Delta, a low-lying alluvial plain. The city's climate is characterized by hot, humid summers and mild, dry winters. The Hooghly River, a distributary of the Ganges, is vital to the city's geography and economy.

Demographics: Kolkata is a densely populated metropolitan area. The population is diverse, consisting of people from various religious, ethnic, and linguistic backgrounds. Bengali is the most widely spoken language.

Economy: Kolkata's economy is driven by a mix of industries, including information technology, financial services, manufacturing, and tourism. The city is a major transportation hub, with a large port and international airport.

Culture: Kolkata is renowned for its rich cultural heritage. It is often referred to as the "City of Joy" and the "Cultural Capital of India." The city is known for its literature, art, music, theatre, and film. Durga Puja, a major Hindu festival, is celebrated with great fervor.

Government: Kolkata is administered by the Kolkata Municipal Corporation (KMC). The city is also home to the West Bengal state government.

Education: Kolkata boasts a large number of educational institutions, including universities, colleges, and schools. The city is a major centre for higher education in India.

Transportation: Kolkata has a well-developed transportation system, including buses, trams, taxis, metro rail, and suburban rail.