Calcutta's Adda Tradition Hosts Soulful Evening Celebrating Kalimpong's Essence
The vibrant city of Calcutta, renowned for its rich tradition of intellectual and cultural gatherings known as addas, hosted yet another intimate and meaningful session on Thursday evening. This special event invited participants to momentarily pause their busy lives and embark on a spiritual journey to the tranquil and picturesque hills of Kalimpong, creating a bridge between urban energy and mountain serenity.
An Unhurried Conversation at Mueller Cafe
Held at the cozy and welcoming Mueller Cafe, the gathering assembled passionate storytellers and cultural enthusiasts for a relaxed and thoughtful dialogue. The conversation beautifully explored the unique charm of Kalimpong, delving into its distinctive culinary traditions, the warmth of its people, and the deliberately slow, reflective pace of life that defines the hill station.
"Kalimpong has always held a special place in the hearts of Calcuttans," explained Iftekhar Ahsan, the founder of Calcutta Walks and the evening's curator. "Our intention was to craft a space where this deep-seated connection could truly breathe and flourish. This adda served as our medium to bring to life the intangible stories, shared histories, and profound emotions that intricately bind these two places together."
A Journey Through Film, History, and Personal Memory
The session commenced with a poignant short documentary film that virtually transported the audience through Kalimpong's narrow lanes (gallis) and bustling local markets (haats). The film masterfully captured the everyday poetry and simple beauty of hill life, setting a contemplative tone for the evening.
The dialogue then deepened with insights from Samsher Ali, an esteemed author of Nepali literature. He meticulously traced Kalimpong's complex and layered historical tapestry, from its period under Bhutanese rule to its strategic significance as a crucial gateway to Tibet during the British colonial era.
Reflecting on the town's enduring cultural legacy, Ali remarked, "The journey of the momo from Tibet, passing through Kalimpong, to becoming a globally recognized dish is a testament to this town's influence. Kalimpong was once among the wealthiest places, with historical records even mentioning the sale of luxury items like Rolex watches there. Its character is truly unparalleled."
Emotional Connections and Musical Closure
Adding a layer of deep personal emotion, author Supriya Newar, for whom Kalimpong represents her grandmother's home (naani ka ghar), shared her heartfelt perspective. "For me, Kalimpong is not merely a travel destination; it is woven into my bloodline and occupies a permanent space in my heart," she expressed. "Since my mother's passing, its significance has become even more profound. The moment you ascend into those hills, the very air transforms—it possesses a cleansing, rejuvenating quality."
The evening reached a soulful and resonant conclusion with a musical performance by Rizwan Chettri. His heartfelt rendition of Bipul Chettri's song "Syndicate" transformed the adda into a collective, shared experience brimming with nostalgia, melodic harmony, and cherished mountain memories. The gathering successfully celebrated the enduring cultural and emotional threads connecting Calcutta and Kalimpong.
