In contrast to rest of India, which had been under British colonial rule, Chandannagar a small trading post on the banks of Hugli river was a French enclave. In the year 1673 A.D, French sailors landed here for the first time and turned this dusty village into a French colony.
Located just 30 km away from the hustle and bustle of Kolkatta city, Chandannagar is a small but commercial hub of West Bengal. Like Kolkatta, the history of this town is also dominated by foreign rule. Till 1950, Chandannagar remains as an object of tug-of-war between French and Britishers. But, after 1950 it was liberated and incorporated as a part of Indian territory.
From tourist point of view, Chandannagar is an excellent place to visit. Its for sure that with the very first step in Chandannagar, you will feel that you are in a French town. The remains of French buildings that are dotted in every corner of this town are an incredible example of architectural brilliance.
Some of the prime tourist spots of Chandannagar are Chandannagar museum. It is the oldest and finest museum of the region which has numerous French items like cannons used in Anglo - French war, wooden furniture of the 18th century and many more. Chandannagar Institute, which still teaches French language through regular classes. The Sacred Heart Church of Chandannagar is another important architectural masterpieces of French.
Apart from French monuments, Chandannagar also has some more tourist spots like Patal bari(the underground house). Its unique architectural design shows the knowledge and craftsmanship of people of yesteryears. The lowest floor of this building submerged in River Ganga. Late renown poet Rabindranath Tagore used to frequently visit this place and has included it into his various stories. Nandadulal temple, Nritya Gopal Smiriti Mandir, Vivekananda Mandir, Chandannagr Strand, and some resident of famous personalities like Rashbehari Bose, Kanailal Dutta , the two renowned revolutionary leaders and the great social reformer Sri Harihar Seth belonged to the place.
Another important thing for which Chandannagar is famous in the entire country is its Jagaddhatri puja. This puja takes place on the ninth lunar day of the light fortnight in Kartik month of Hindu calender.
Local train from Howrah station will take bring you here. You can even hire private cars or board on buses from Kolkatta via G.T road or Delhi road or you can also use river services of West Bangle to reach Chandannagar from Kolkatta.
By Jolly Mazumdar
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