Kolkata: A Rural Experience

We were headed out at 7am from our hotel and already the streets were full of vehicles and people. Today's distribution was at Kalanabagram, a community surrounded by flat, fertile farmland. Most of the rice had been harvested, but lush, green fields were filled with potatoes and mustard plants.  Some banana groves dotted the landscape and everywhere we saw goats.

Kolkata's economy is largely based on its agriculture.

We were warmly welcomed by the hosting Rotary Club of Sikshaniketan and then entertained by local children, dressed in traditional costume, performing aboriginal dances.

Whether in the hustle and bustle of Kolkata and suburbs or in the countryside, the children's delight in receiving the bedkits was obvious.

After the distribution, we toured the quite unique community. The village was a wonderful example of a planned community, started by the freedom fighter, Bijoy Kumar Bhattachary, and is really based on a holistic approach to a community. We saw a day care for young children so both parents could work in the fields, a school, a vocational institute  and a nearly completed nursing home for the elderly.  A craft centre in the complex specialized in hand made bags to be sold at city markets. We all made purchases as memorable souvenirs of this particular day. The central square of the village was a beautiful setting, nicely landscaped, and the villagers were clearly proud of their community.

Anne Kell for Team Kolkata 2015
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