Imtiaz Ali's Poetic Ode to Kolkata: A City Where Heart Sets the Pace
When acclaimed filmmaker Imtiaz Ali speaks about Kolkata, his words unfold with the lyrical grace and emotional depth characteristic of his celebrated screenplays. In a heartfelt conversation commemorating the 25th anniversary of Calcutta Times, Ali revisited the city of his childhood memories and his ongoing love affair with its unique essence. "I have said this before, Kolkata is my favourite city in the country," he declared, emphasizing the dynamic mix of people and his hope that the city preserves its artistic soul.
The Rhythmic Soul of Kolkata
Every visit to Kolkata becomes a journey of rediscovery for Imtiaz Ali, who finds himself captivated by the city's distinctive rhythm. "Each time I come here, I'm impacted by the mix of people, by the presence of culture and tradition, along with a constant push toward the modern world," he explained. What truly fascinates him is how Kolkata maintains its identity without succumbing to relentless speed. "People often say Kolkata is slow, but that's only in comparison to other cities that move at a breakneck pace, often not knowing why they do," Ali observed. "I don't think the city is slow. I think people here want life to coexist with work. That's a difficult, but a beautiful balance to achieve."
To Ali, Kolkata's measured pace is not a deficiency but a form of poetry, creating an environment where artists, writers, and dreamers consistently find sanctuary. "The presence of artists in Kolkata is no accident," he noted, tracing this nurturing spirit back through history from the era of Wajid Ali Shah and British rule to the original artists of Bengal. "The city has always had this quiet, unspoken respect for creativity," he added, highlighting how this supportive atmosphere defines Kolkata's core identity.
A Nurturing Haven for Creativity
Imtiaz Ali believes that Kolkata's artistic community, both prominent and influential, owes its existence to the city's inhabitants who have consistently nurtured and integrated art into their daily lives. "They've always nurtured art and kept it close to their lives. It's woven into their everyday existence," he remarked. This deep-seated appreciation extends across various cultural expressions, from cuisine and fine arts to poetry, costume design, and even flower decoration, all of which continue to enthrall Ali during his visits.
Among the city's iconic features, Ali expressed particular affection for Kolkata's trams, describing them as capturing the essence of urban life. "The sound and experience of a tram is the essence of the city," he said, underscoring how such elements contribute to Kolkata's unique character.
Nostalgia for a Westernized Wonder
Reflecting on Kolkata's historical grandeur, Imtiaz Ali's tone turns contemplative as he recalls the city's cosmopolitan charm. "The city is a very westernized one in my eyes," he stated, noting that this sophistication was evident not just in architecture or demographics but in the overall spirit that once animated its streets. "There was a time when Kolkata was the prima donna among Indian cities," he smiled, evoking a sense of nostalgia for a bygone era.
Ali's memories are enriched by stories passed down from his father and uncles, tales of elegant nights spent at legendary establishments like Waldorf, Peter Cat, The Tollygunge Club, and The Grand Hotel. "All of this had a promise not only of great entertainment but also a stylish kind of fun," he added, painting a picture of an era that blended artistry with a slightly decadent enjoyment.
In concluding his tribute, Imtiaz Ali extended warm congratulations to Calcutta Times for its 25-year journey of showcasing the best of Kolkata. His words serve as a poignant reminder of why this city remains a cherished muse for creative minds across India.
