British Diplomat Andrew Fleming's Heartfelt Connection with Kolkata
Few foreign diplomats have embraced a city with the genuine warmth and curiosity displayed by Dr Andrew Fleming, the British Deputy High Commissioner for East and North-East India. His profound affection for Kolkata has transformed him into an honorary local, celebrating the city's unique rhythm, quirks, and soul. To commemorate the 25th anniversary of Calcutta Times, it felt perfectly fitting to engage with someone who truly understands and appreciates the essence of this vibrant metropolis.
A Timeless Conversation on Historic College Street
We accompanied Dr Fleming to College Street, that legendary stretch where books, conversations, and coffee converge, for a relaxed chat reminiscent of a traditional Bengali adda. The ensuing dialogue flowed effortlessly, covering diverse topics from culinary delights and sporting passions to architectural marvels and musical rediscoveries. "I'm delighted I visited College Street with CT," Fleming remarked. "This is a city of readers, with not only a proud history but also a very bright future. Kolkata has a wonderful culture and heritage, and remarkable people."
During the visit, Dr Andrew Fleming was seen flipping through Rabindranath Tagore's Gitanjali at a College Street bookstore, symbolizing his engagement with the city's literary heritage. He later reflected, "Visiting Kumartuli with CT in 2024 was unforgettable," highlighting his immersive experiences into Kolkata's artistic traditions.
Kolkata: A Global City with a Homely Feel
"Kolkata is truly a city like no other," Andrew Fleming emphasized. "Every guest I've hosted here says the same. Its diversity and distinct neighborhoods are fascinating." What began as professional curiosity has blossomed into a creative passion through his #CornersOfCalcutta project, where he documents the city's hidden architectural and cultural gems on film.
"The architecture surprised me – colonial grandeur, art deco elegance, and everyday vibrancy co-exist seamlessly," he noted. "And the people are just as remarkable: Bengalis, Marwaris, communities from the hills. It's among Asia's most cosmopolitan cities, much like my own, London."
Culinary Adventures and Sporting Passions
Food has played a pivotal role in sealing Fleming's connection with Kolkata. "You'll find outstanding meals anywhere – from Chef Shaun Kenworthy's British-Bengali fusion to Bawali's vegetarian delicacies. I've tasted flavors I never imagined," he shared enthusiastically.
As a lifelong sports enthusiast, Fleming is equally captivated by the city's athletic fervor. "There isn't a more sport-obsessed city in Asia. Football, cricket, hockey – you even find wrestling at the Flower Market at 5:30 am. It's incredible," he observed, highlighting Kolkata's unique sporting culture.
Architecture That Narrates Stories
"Kolkata is one of those rare cities where architecture tells stories," Andrew Fleming explained. "Every corner reveals a chapter – from North Kolkata's stately colonial facades to the art deco homes of the South. Ballygunge, Southern Avenue, and Hindustan Park captivate me: curved balconies, sunburst grills, pastel hues, and bold lines reflecting modernity shaped by Bengali sensibility."
Rediscovering Music Through Kolkata's Melodic Spirit
Perhaps most personally touching is how Kolkata has rekindled Fleming's musical confidence. "I always loved singing, but I'm mostly a bathroom singer," he laughed. "I was part of a choir when I was 10, but the choirmaster asked me to leave, and that crushed my confidence for a while."
It took Kolkata's infectious love for melody to reignite that spark: "This is a city where people truly love music. Nowadays, if someone asks me to sing – I actually enjoy it."
Reflecting on his experiences with Calcutta Times, Fleming added, "Calcutta Times creates opportunities to engage with culture in an authentic way. I loved my visit to Kumartuli with them. It was a vivid glimpse into the city's artistic spirit," he said while enjoying Paramount's traditional Daab-er sherbet.
Through his eyes, Kolkata emerges not just as a diplomatic posting, but as a living, breathing entity that mirrors the world while feeling unmistakably like home – a city that never stops inspiring, or singing, its own unique tune.
