Jol Jyanto Kolkata is a journey through the rich history of water and water infrastructure in a city that was once the focal point of convergence between the East and the West. A remarkably interconnected web of waterways, both natural and manmade, crisscross through this City of Joy, where trade and communication paved the way for cultural, social, and ecological confluence. Experience the ‘Lively Waters of Kolkata’ through this immersive exhibition.

Kolkata Waters Map
Kolkata Waters Map
Howrah Bridge Vidyasagar Setu
Kolkata Waters Map Story Preview

Ghatscapes of Hooghly

An exploration of the riverfront ghats and ghat pavilions, and their pivotal role as socio-cultural meeting points throughout Kolkata’s urban existence. Discover the histories of the various ghats through archival and contemporary images.

Water Distribution System

A video explainer detailing the various issues and injustices of water distribution from a social equity perspective. This story seeks to ask pertinent questions on Kolkata’s water sources, supply, and disposal methods.

The Ponds of Kolkata

This interview with Mohit Ray brings to light the impact of the innumerous pukurs and dighis as viable sources of water. Listen on as he discusses their ecological significance and plight, as well as their cultural influence.

Laldighi

This water tank built by the British in the 18th century serves as the nucleus of the administrative district. Stacked with the weight of its complex history and uncertain future, Laldighi is on the precipice of a historical remaking.

Canals of Calcutta

Since its inception, Kolkata has boasted of a network of canals. Join us as we look for stories that weave this network of canals through the sprawling city.

Bishtis

With a history that predates British colonial rule, the Bishtis found their way to Kolkata as the city grew in size and significance. Explore a day in the life of a water carrier fighting to sustain their place in modern society.

Drinking Water Fountains

Scattered throughout Kolkata, these colonial era water fountains are visual reminders of our diverse urbanscapes where treasures abound. Today the fountains demand intervention to continue their significant function of providing access to drinking water.

Jute and the Hooghly

The relationship between the Hooghly River and jute goes back hundreds of years. Today, jute manufacturing in West Bengal is a vital trade industry accounting for 75 percent of global supply.

Kolkata’s Drainage System

This story discusses the expansive, serpent-like drainage system of Kolkata, its intricate design, features, and the ongoing efforts to further its growth.

Rabindra Sarovar

As a cultural hub, Rabindra Sarovar is a space for community activity and sports; as a bio reserve, it serves a greater ecological purpose. However, urban expansion and pollution have led to damaging consequences for the future of the lake.

South Dhobikhana

A visual and textual study on the dyeing and washing processes at the Dhobighat, the traditional techniques of the dhobis, and the threat of both urbanization and effluence.

Boats of Kolkata

For over three centuries, the Hooghly River and its channels created numerous trade and communication opportunities. Boats of various indigenous design have helped fisherfolk and merchants further the economic growth of the city.

The East Kolkata Wetlands

Wastewater ponds are a vital feature in the natural treatment of sewage in the East Kolkata Wetlands. A sewage fed aquaculture system, the wetlands are as crucial to the metropolitan region as the deltaic mangroves.

The Tala Tank

An engineering marvel built in the early 1900s, this water tower stands 110 feet high and continues to function as an important source of water supply to the city of Kolkata.

Kolkata’s Port Trust

As the only major riverine port in India, the port of Kolkata connects to one of the longest navigational channels in the world. This podcast delves into the rich history of the Port Trust in the evolution of Kolkata.

Pollutants

This gripping documentary brings to light the various crises caused by industrial waste. The film tackles issues such as the environmental impact of water pollutants and the dire consequences of groundwater contamination, impacting millions in the city of Kolkata.

Adi Ganga

A former channel of the Hooghly, the Adi Ganga now struggles to overcome the effects of waste water and pollution. There is need for a multi stakeholder approach towards the river’s rejuvenation and sustainability.

Student Engagement

Performed by the students of Modern High School and Delhi Public School Howrah through workshops, these art pieces are visual interpretations of the symbiotic nature of water and socio-cultural practices in Kolkata through history.

View Story

Ghatscapes of Hooghly

An exploration of the riverfront ghats and ghat pavilions, and their pivotal role as socio-cultural meeting points throughout Kolkata’s urban existence. Discover the histories of the various ghats through archival and contemporary images.

Water Distribution System

A video explainer detailing the various issues and injustices of water distribution from a social equity perspective. This story seeks to ask pertinent questions on Kolkata’s water sources, supply, and disposal methods.

The Ponds of Kolkata

This interview with Mohit Ray brings to light the impact of the innumerous pukurs and dighis as viable sources of water. Listen on as he discusses their ecological significance and plight, as well as their cultural influence.

Laldighi

This water tank built by the British in the 18th century serves as the nucleus of the administrative district. Stacked with the weight of its complex history and uncertain future, Laldighi is on the precipice of a historical remaking.

Canals of Calcutta

Since its inception, Kolkata has boasted of a network of canals. Join us as we look for stories that weave this network of canals through the sprawling city.

Bishtis

With a history that predates British colonial rule, the Bishtis found their way to Kolkata as the city grew in size and significance. Explore a day in the life of a water carrier fighting to sustain their place in modern society.

Drinking Water Fountains

Scattered throughout Kolkata, these colonial era water fountains are visual reminders of our diverse urbanscapes where treasures abound. Today the fountains demand intervention to continue their significant function of providing access to drinking water.

Jute and the Hooghly

The relationship between the Hooghly River and jute goes back hundreds of years. Today, jute manufacturing in West Bengal is a vital trade industry accounting for 75 percent of global supply.

Kolkata’s Drainage System

This story discusses the expansive, serpent-like drainage system of Kolkata, its intricate design, features, and the ongoing efforts to further its growth.

Rabindra Sarovar

As a cultural hub, Rabindra Sarovar is a space for community activity and sports; as a bio reserve, it serves a greater ecological purpose. However, urban expansion and pollution have led to damaging consequences for the future of the lake.

South Dhobikhana

A visual and textual study on the dyeing and washing processes at the Dhobighat, the traditional techniques of the dhobis, and the threat of both urbanization and effluence.

Boats of Kolkata

For over three centuries, the Hooghly River and its channels created numerous trade and communication opportunities. Boats of various indigenous design have helped fisherfolk and merchants further the economic growth of the city.

The East Kolkata Wetlands

Wastewater ponds are a vital feature in the natural treatment of sewage in the East Kolkata Wetlands. A sewage fed aquaculture system, the wetlands are as crucial to the metropolitan region as the deltaic mangroves.

The Tala Tank

An engineering marvel built in the early 1900s, this water tower stands 110 feet high and continues to function as an important source of water supply to the city of Kolkata.

Kolkata’s Port Trust

As the only major riverine port in India, the port of Kolkata connects to one of the longest navigational channels in the world. This podcast delves into the rich history of the Port Trust in the evolution of Kolkata.

Pollutants

This gripping documentary brings to light the various crises caused by industrial waste. The film tackles issues such as the environmental impact of water pollutants and the dire consequences of groundwater contamination, impacting millions in the city of Kolkata.

Adi Ganga

A former channel of the Hooghly, the Adi Ganga now struggles to overcome the effects of waste water and pollution. There is need for a multi stakeholder approach towards the river’s rejuvenation and sustainability.

Student Engagement

Performed by the students of Modern High School and Delhi Public School Howrah through workshops, these art pieces are visual interpretations of the symbiotic nature of water and socio-cultural practices in Kolkata through history.

Sarod

Saumalya Sareswari