Home / Arts and Entertainment / Kolkata's Past Unveiled: Living History Exhibition Opens
Kolkata's Past Unveiled: Living History Exhibition Opens
27 Nov
Summary
- Exhibition showcases rare books and artifacts from over two dozen institutions.
- Rare photographs document Kolkata's architectural heritage and social transitions.
- Archaeological finds reveal ancient Shaiva, Buddhist, Jaina, and Vajrayana cultures.
The Indian Museum has been transformed into a vibrant repository of Kolkata's collective memory with the "Breathing with History" exhibition. This extensive display, curated by the Emami Foundation, brings together a diverse array of historical treasures. Visitors can explore rare books, intricate textiles, archaeological discoveries, and colonial-era photographs, all curated from over two dozen institutions.
The exhibition meticulously charts Kolkata's journey from its marshy origins to a bustling metropolis, beginning with seminal texts that detail its growth. It also delves into the city's aesthetic and social transformations through classical Kalighat paintings and captivating studio photographs. A dedicated section explores the architectural legacy of Andul and the rich cultural history unearthed from the Sundarbans, hinting at past flourishing civilizations.
Contributions from various institutions, including NATMO and the Botanical Survey of India, enrich the exhibition with cartographic instruments, basketry, and unique craft traditions from across India. The display extends to include contemporary elements like scroll paintings and mural traditions, ensuring "Breathing with History" serves as a dynamic and engaging chronicle of the city's past and present.
