Christmas comes early as lights and tinsel deck up Bow Barracks
Times of India | 20 December 2024
Kolkata: Chief minister Mamata Banerjee inaugurated the Christmas celebrations at Bow Barracks — in the virtual mode from Allen Park — on Thursday. Local residents at the city's only Anglo-Indian enclave gathered in large numbers to witness the inauguration on big screens set up across the neighbourhood. The CM's address was greeted with cheers and applause, marking the locals' excitement for the festive season.
The Bow Barracks area, decked up in sparkling lights, colourful buntings, and elaborate Christmas signage, is a sight to behold. This year, the illuminated zone has expanded, adding to the grandeur of the celebrations. The tourism department has installed signages to guide visitors and has ensured every corner of radiates Christmas cheer.
"This is a special time for us. Christmas at Bow Barracks is not just a celebration but our way of bringing the community together and keeping our heritage alive," said Margaret Lim, a resident.
Bow Barracks holds a unique place on Kolkata's cultural map. The neighbourhood is synonymous with Christmas festivities, and every year, the narrow lanes come alive with carols, live performances, and other events. It is the biggest Christmas celebration by the community anywhere in the city.
The tourism department, which organised this year's decorations, has more plans in store for Bow Barracks. "We want to preserve the cultural heritage of Bow Barracks while promoting it as a tourist spot. Through these celebrations, we want to ensure that people from all walks of life come and experience the warmth and vibrancy of Bow Barracks," said an official, adding, "We have not only enhanced the lighting but also created an atmosphere that reflects the true spirit of Christmas."
Locals have decorated their homes, with many even applying a fresh coat of paint. Families have already started preparing for the celebrations, buying ingredients for delicacies they will be making on Christmas.
"This is the biggest Christmas celebration by our community in Kolkata. Bow Barracks transforms into a magical world during this time, and it's wonderful to see the govt supporting our efforts to keep this tradition thriving," another resident said.
The neighbourhood is all set to welcome thousands of visitors in the coming weeks who have put Bow Barracks on their must-visit list in the run-up to the new year.
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