West Bengal – A literary cultured state of India
Introduction
West Bengal is the fourth most populous state of the country. It shares its border with three other countries and five states. The state is famous for its sweet dishes; most notable among them is the rasgulla.
Capital
Kolkata, earlier known as Calcutta, is the capital of West Bengal and a major port of the country. Located on the banks of river Hugli, the city is one of the most important commercial and manufacturing centers of eastern India.
Culture
The culture of West Bengal is considered as one of the richest cultures of the country. The Bengalis have a great affinity for music, art and craft. The Bengali music is not very old, but has gained much popularity now and the Bengali theatre is also very famous.
Weather
Subtropical humid climate prevails in the northern part of the state while the southern part experiences tropical savanna climate. Summer temperatures reach a maximum of 45 degrees while the winters are pleasant.
Lifestyle
The Bengalis are happy go lucky type of people who love food especially fish dishes. The population residing in West Bengal mainly belongs to the Hindu religions who are ardent followers of Goddess Durga.
Major crops grown
Agriculture is the main occupation of the Bengalis. Rice is the main food crop while jute is the main cash crop grown in the state. Other crops include maize, pulses, wheat, oilseeds, barley, tobacco, vegetables and tea.
Costume and ornaments
Traditional Bengali women wear a sari which is designed according to their local custom. Men prefer western outfits over the traditional ones. During special occasions men wear dhoti and Kurta.
Major festivals
Durga Puja is an important occasion in West Bengal. It is celebrated with great zeal throughout the state. Other major festivals include Pohela Boishakh (Bengali New Year), Kali Puja, Saraswati Puja and Christmas.
Tourist attractions
West Bengal is a beautiful state and attracts a lot of tourists. Darjeeling is the most beautiful tourist destination in the state. Other places of interest include Howrah Bridge, Victoria Memorial, Sunderbans, Shantiniketan, Adina mosque and Dalhousie Square.
Kinds of homes
The Bengalis live in well built houses that have access to all the resources and amenities
Famous personalities
Rabindranath Tagore was a great personality from West Bengal. He was a poet, novelist, song composer, story writer, essayist, playwright and painter. Other famous personalities include Bankim Chandra Chatterji, Satyajit Ray and Sri Aurobindo.
