Kolkata, though a creation of the British Empire, with no such considerable prominence in the mediaeval age, happens to have a glorious tradition in the history of the modern India. Known for long long days as the "Second History of the British Empire" it happens to be the cultural capital in the national and international scenario. The majority of the population, the Bengalis are artistically inclined and even in this modern age and era they have retained their traditional values and aesthetic senses. This special characteristic has been displayed in all aspects and at several junctures of the history of India. This city in the early parts of the 20 th century had been witness to several political upheavals, and also the emergence and growth of the extremist politics in India, especially Bengal! Well, regarding the naming of the city there have been several theories, some of which are not only misleading but also contradictory. While according to history, there was a cluster of three small villages near the river Hoogly. Gradually, this village developed into modern day, metropolitan city called Kolkata.
The city has witnessed much. From the transfer of the capital from the city to New Delhi in 1911 to the bloody days of partition in 1947, there have been many developments that have left deep impressions on the psyche of the city, from which the city has perhaps not been able to come out. Only history knows whether it shall be at any day! But it must be said, that there are several tourist places in the City of Joy, as the city of Kolkata, alias Calcutta, is known! The Howrah Bridge is the most famous landmark of Kolkata. Built on the river Hoogly, by the British, it connects the station to the city. The other notable landmark is the Victoria Memorial. Lastly, it must be said, in spite of its immense poverty the city continues to grow with all its virtues and vices!
