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Cities Connected: Lucknow's Soul in Calcutta
31 Jan
Summary
- Exhibition reveals centuries-old connections between Lucknow and Calcutta.
- Wajid Ali Shah recreated Lucknow in exile in Calcutta.
- Modern exhibit explores dual identities shaped by both cities.
The exhibition 'Shahrashob: Letters Between Lucknow and Calcutta,' by artist-researcher Soumyadeep Roy, celebrates the deep historical and cultural ties between the two cities. Spanning centuries, the exhibition uses letters, art, and personal stories to illustrate how Lucknow and Calcutta have remained interconnected.
Initially, mid-18th century travelers like poets and artists frequently moved between the cities. A significant event was the 1856 exile of Wajid Ali Shah, the last Nawab of Awadh, to Calcutta. In exile, he meticulously recreated Lucknow's essence in Metiabruz, fostering a continued cultural exchange.
Later, figures like Bengal school artist Asit Kumar Haldar and a young Satyajit Ray further illustrate this link. Haldar noted Lucknow's lasting impact on his art, while Ray's letters from Lucknow detail the city's influence on his sketches, revealing a unique discovery of Lucknow through his experiences.
The exhibition also addresses contemporary connections, featuring individuals who navigate dual identities shaped by both Lucknow and Calcutta. It presents these cities not merely as geographical locations but as vibrant, emotional landscapes influencing present and future lives.
