Kolkata is a city that bursts with life at every corner. The streets are an endless maze of yellow taxis, bustling buses, and hand-pulled rickshaws weaving between the crowds. The architecture is a mix of old colonial-era buildings, lively markets, and humble street stalls selling everything from fresh produce to chai.
Vendors line the sidewalks, their carts overflowing with fruits, snacks, and trinkets, while locals go about their day with a rhythm that feels uniquely Kolkata. The city’s energy is intense, yet there is an undeniable charm in its chaos, from the honking of taxis to the calls of street hawkers.
Beyond the traffic and noise, Kolkata reveals its rich history and culture. Temples and mosques stand side by side with remnants of British colonial rule, like the grand Victoria Memorial. The streets tell a story of resilience and tradition, with people gathered for lively tea shop discussions or children playing in narrow alleyways.
At every turn, there is something to take in—the colors of sarees hanging in shopfronts, the smell of spices from street food vendors, or the sight of locals enjoying a plate of puchkas (pani puri) by the roadside. Kolkata may be overwhelming at first, but it is a city that leaves a lasting impression with its vibrant soul.
Street Life
Kolkata’s streets pulse with energy and movement. Vendors cook chaat and samosas, workers repair shoes, and rickshaws weave through bustling lanes. Sidewalks serve as both marketplaces and meeting spots, where locals gather for chai and conversation. The mix of taxis, bicycles, and pedestrians creates a lively rhythm unique to the city.
Yet, the streets also reveal urban struggles. Families shelter on sidewalks, children play barefoot, and stray dogs nap near crumbling buildings. Amidst open drains and makeshift homes, people adapt and survive. Kolkata’s street life is raw yet resilient, a testament to human endurance and spirit.
River & Temples of Kolkata
Kolkata’s Hooghly River is a hub of spirituality and daily life. Worshippers gather at the ghats for rituals, bathing, and prayers, while boats glide across its waters. Despite pollution, devotion remains strong, with colonial bridges and temples standing as reminders of history.
The city’s temples are vibrant with faith. The grand Dakshineswar Kali Temple draws crowds, while smaller shrines echo with prayers and incense. Outside, markets bustle with vendors selling offerings. These sacred spaces keep Kolkata’s deep spiritual traditions alive amid its urban energy.
Mother Teresa House
Stepping into Mother Teresa’s House in Kolkata was a deeply moving experience. The simplicity of the Missionaries of Charity reflects her humility and dedication. A modest entrance leads to a peaceful courtyard where visitors quietly pay their respects. Inside, nuns move with calm purpose, continuing her humanitarian work. Her legacy of compassion is felt in every corner.
At the center is Mother Teresa’s tomb, adorned with fresh flowers and the words “Jesus Loves You.” Visitors kneel in prayer, reflecting on her devotion to the poor. A small museum displays her few belongings—worn sandals, a bucket, and letters—testaments to her selfless life. The air is filled with quiet reverence, a reminder that true greatness lies in service.
Working on BSNL’s Mobile Network Install
During my time with Nortel Networks, I worked on the installation of a mobile phone network for BSNL across multiple locations in Kolkata. Each site presented its own challenges, from outdated infrastructure to logistical issues in setting up modern telecom equipment in older buildings.
The Central Kolkata Exchange was one of the most intense sites—filled with old equipment, tangled wiring, and a maze of rooms packed with outdated hardware.
The work involved replacing aging infrastructure with new Nortel systems, ensuring better connectivity for the city’s growing mobile network. With limited space and the constant need for precise cable management, every installation had to be handled carefully to avoid disruption.
Durgapur had a more industrial setting, with stacks of network hardware awaiting deployment and infrastructure that required significant upgrades. The Salt Lake site was more modern, with spacious data centers that allowed for a more streamlined setup of switching equipment and servers.
Finally, Jadavpur was a mix of urban and semi-rural challenges, where ensuring reliable coverage was key. Working across these sites gave me firsthand insight into the complexities of expanding a telecom network in a dense, rapidly growing city. The combination of technology, problem-solving, and adapting to local conditions made the job both demanding and rewarding.
