Thursday, June 30, 2011

The City of Joy

I am just back from Kolkata. Though I have grown up in Delhi and spent my married and work life in Mumbai, Kolkata city holds a special place in my heart where I have lots of relatives. We have been visiting Kolkata during holidays since our childhood. And all the mashi-meshos, jytheu-monima, kaka-kakus, mama-mamis and cousins have been pampering us during our brief stay. Probably that is another reason for us to feel so happy and carefree here.


The moment I land in Kolkata city, I somehow get absorbed in its vitality, creative juices and the laid-back character. In addition, the divine sweets, costing several times less than that in Mumbai, increase my craving for Sandesh, Rasogolla, Shar-bhaja, Kheer-kadam, chanar polau.... Oooohhh!!! And I return gaining several kilos!!


The rains had brought down the temperature by several notches and a trip down the Gariahat market really soared my spirits. We were also treated to a grand and delicious breakfast at the famous Flury's restaurant at Park Street. Though the prices were quite high, I loved their Heritage Chicken Patties and Chocolate Brownies!!


A visit to a dear uncle and aunty (Ashok-Moutushi Sur), who had lovingly prepared some delicious sandwiches and fish-chops, was another high point of our trip. Their house in central Kolkata has been done up with a lot of care and details and welcomes guests with open arms.


Due to cloudy weather and my limited 'photography skill', the picture quality is not very high. But I am sure you will get an idea. While uncle, a technical person, has combined his passion for machines with art through his collection of artefacts from all over the globe, aunty has given vent to her creative endeavours through textile designing and sells her stuff from home.


Have a look at their beautiful house:


An aesthetic setting in the living room. The cabinet-top displays an eclectic mix of modern and traditional. Do not miss the mini tree house-- very cute!!!




Uncle's prized collection


An inviting breakfast nook with framed embroideries.



A graceful painting and the asymmetrical coffee table complement the embroidered curtain and the simple decor of the room.







A Tanjore painting painstakingly done by aunty


A Beautiful lady with a lamp

A modest Ganesha collection at the entrance

2 comments:

mum said...

Hi Mohua I visited your blog today after so many months.You are doing a great job by providing us with so many ideas on home decor.I liked all your posts but this one is the best of all.

Mohua Chakraborty said...

Thanks Gouri for your inspiring comments. Did you like the description of my trip more or the house tour? By the way, I have started another blog on fashion. You can visit it from here itself. Have a look.