Which Indian City Shines Bright Like Paris at Night?

The Kolkata Illumination Project is a unique initiative aimed at reviving the city's architectural heritage through night-time lighting, transforming historic buildings into vibrant landmarks. This project, driven by local enthusiasts, highlights Kolkata's rich history while promoting community engagement in heritage restoration.

Last updated: 26 October 2023 (BST)

Key Takeaways

• The Kolkata Illumination Project aims to light up the city's neglected heritage buildings.
• Initiated by a citizens' group called Kolkata Restorers, it relies on community funding.
• As of now, 92 buildings have been illuminated, with plans to reach 200.
• The project highlights not just architectural beauty but also the need for restoration.
• Local clock repairer Swapan Dutta plays a crucial role in restoring historical clocks as part of the initiative.

The Birth of the Kolkata Illumination Project

The Kolkata Illumination Project represents a grassroots effort to restore and illuminate the city's architectural legacy. It began when tour leader Sujoy Sen discovered a newspaper article highlighting efforts to light up historic buildings in Kolkata, which some citizens had undertaken. Inspired, he sought to share this experience with others.

"I was stunned," recalls Sen. "I wanted other people to see it as well." His enthusiasm ignited the idea of conducting night tours that showcased not just the buildings' architecture but their beauty when illuminated.

Community Involvement and Funding

The project is not formally organised; it operates more like a movement led by a loosely connected group known as Kolkata Restorers. Mudar Patherya, a key figure in this initiative, explains, "It's not a real organisation. There is no committee, no president. It's just a label. A WhatsApp group." This informal structure allows for flexibility and creativity in addressing the challenges of heritage restoration.

Initially focused on painting an old market's dome, Patherya quickly realised that the beauty of the structure could not be appreciated at night due to its lack of illumination. This led him to raise funds from friends to light it up, which opened the door to illuminating other buildings around the city.

Illuminating Kolkata's Heritage

The project has successfully illuminated 92 buildings in about 21 months. The model is simple: property owners cover electricity costs while the Kolkata Restorers manage the lighting installations. Patherya collaborates with lighting designer Suyash Narsaria to ensure the light intensity and positioning enhance each building's unique features.

Technical Challenges and Solutions

Getting the lighting right involved considerable trial and error. Narsaria explains that they had to reduce wattage and adjust the lighting positions to highlight architectural details like columns and murals effectively. However, as the project expanded, they faced an unexpected challenge: the condition of many buildings was deteriorating. The illumination often brought to light issues of disrepair that needed addressing before any lighting could be installed.

Restoring More Than Just Buildings

The Kolkata Restorers aim to instil a sense of pride in the city, reviving not just structures but also the community's connection to its heritage. This restoration extends beyond mere aesthetics; it is about celebrating the city's illustrious past and ensuring its stories endure. For example, the Hogg Market, a Gothic market, had a clock tower that had fallen into disrepair and had not chimed for years.

Swapan Dutta, known as 'Ghari-babu' or Clock-man, is pivotal in this restoration. His expertise in repairing vintage clocks stems from a family legacy that dates back to the British era. Dutta's work on the Hogg Market clock, which chimes every quarter hour, exemplifies the project's commitment to preserving Kolkata's unique character.

Challenges of Heritage Restoration

Restoration in Kolkata faces numerous challenges. Many buildings are neglected, often due to the high costs associated with maintenance and restoration. Property owners may prioritise profit over preservation, with land values forcing heritage structures to make way for modern developments. As Himanjali Sankar, a local, points out, "In a city anxious to woo business, heritage is often dismissed as an expensive luxury."

The Vision for the Future

Despite these obstacles, the Kolkata Illumination Project has ambitious plans. Patherya aims to illuminate 200 buildings, transforming Kolkata into a dazzling city at night. "I want to get to 200 buildings," he states confidently. "Then it would be one of the most wondrous cities at night in the country." This ambition highlights the potential for architectural heritage to thrive alongside modern urban development.

Community Engagement and Pride

The project has sparked a renewed interest in Kolkata's history and culture. By involving local communities in the restoration and illumination processes, it fosters a sense of ownership and pride. The architecture that tells the story of Kolkata's past is being revitalised, serving as a reminder of the city's diverse influences and rich heritage.

Conclusion

The Kolkata Illumination Project exemplifies how community-led initiatives can effectively address the challenges of heritage conservation. By showcasing the beauty of Kolkata's architecture at night, it not only enhances the city's aesthetics but also rekindles local pride in its history. As Kolkata continues to grow and evolve, projects like this remind residents and visitors alike of the importance of preserving the past while embracing the future. What more can be done to restore and celebrate the architectural heritage of other cities in India?

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FAQs

What is the Kolkata Illumination Project?

The Kolkata Illumination Project aims to restore and light up the city's historic buildings, enhancing their visibility and beauty at night while promoting community involvement in heritage conservation.

How many buildings have been illuminated so far?

As of now, 92 buildings have been illuminated, with plans to increase that number to 200 in the future.

Who is behind the Kolkata Illumination Project?

The project is spearheaded by a citizens' group called Kolkata Restorers, led by Mudar Patherya. It operates informally, relying on community funding and engagement.

What challenges does the project face?

The project encounters challenges such as the deteriorating condition of many buildings, high restoration costs, and a general lack of prioritisation for heritage by property owners.

How does the funding work for the project?

Property owners pay for the electricity used for the lighting, while the Kolkata Restorers handle the installation and maintenance costs, often funded through community donations.