Eden Gardens is not only an integral part of Kolkata city, but is also an important landmark in the International cricket map. The stadium is named after the adjoining Eden Gardens. Right from 1864, it has seen cricket records being made and broken by iconic players. What makes this stadium exclusive from its counterparts is the passion of the crowds towards the game. The player's concentration is almost put to test amidst the loud cheer and noise. Though the unruly behavior of the fans has resulted in match disruptions, this stadium still remains a favorite among all cricketers. Notable performances at Eden Gardens include bowler Harbhajan Singh's hat-trick against the Australians in 2000-01 and the 281 runs scored by VVS Laxman, in the same season, which is the highest individual score recorded at this ground. Try and visit Eden Gardens during a match to feel the excitement in the air.
For years, it was the Howrah Bridge (or Rabindra Setu) on the river Hooghly that carried the sea of people that travel between Kolkata and its twin city Howrah. But considering traffic pressures, the idea for a second bridge over the Hooghly came into being. The Second Hooghly Bridge or the Vidyasagar Setu, as it is named after the Bengali philosopher and reformer Ishwar Chandra Vidyasagar, is a 457 meter long cable stayed bridge and the second largest in India after the Bandra-Worli Sea Link in Mumbai. Bicycles can roam free, but this is a toll bridge for all other vehicles. Built between 1978 and 1993, Vidyasagar Setu has since become an indispensable asset to the city. And of course, the bridge itself does make the Kolkata skyline a little more interesting!
A branch of the Ramakrishna Mission, Belur Math, the Ramakrishna Mission Institute of Art and Culture is dedicated to disseminating the teachings and ideologies of Swami Vivekananda and Sri Rama Krishna Paramahansa. A large building complex with a central garden, the Institute has been declared a ‘Heritage Building’ by the Kolkata Municipal Corporation (KMC). A white marble statue of Sri Rama Krishna Paramahansa stands within the campus, while a statue of Swami Vivekananda is right across at Gol Park . As the name points out, the main goal is to propagate culture and inter-cultural understanding. The Centre for Indological Studies and Research, apart from being an important research facility, offers various academic courses including Bharatatattva (exploring the Indian Civilization and its rich heritage), Appreciation of Indian Art, International Understanding and Major Religions of the World. The complex also includes a School of Languages and a Museum and Gallery dedicated to Indian art and culture. The Sarada Devi School of Fine Arts offers a course that is specifically aimed at encouraging creativity in children. A well equipped library is available to all its students and members. The Institute explores culture through a variety of events such as seminars, lectures and musical performances. The Ramakrishna Mission Institute of Culture is also widely known for its philanthropic activities.
Situated inside the large temple complex of Belur Math, the Ramakrishna Museum is the right place to begin if you want to know more about 'Vedanta' and the Ramakrishna Movement. Personal artifacts of Ramakrishna Paramahansa, Sarada Devi and Swami Vivekananda can be found here. The two-storied building houses a reproduction of the Panchavati which depicts the cluster of five sacred trees that was used by Ramakrishna for his sadhana or spiritual meditation. Swami Vivekananda’s personal belongings from the last few days of his life are also displayed here. Visit this museum before you tour Belur Math so that you can better understand the philosophy behind it.
The Kancher Mandir is located within the premises of Sri Sri Ramkrishna Ashram, Baranagar, that manages and maintains the temple. It derives its name from 'Kanch' that means glass. Locals also refer to it as 'Sheesha Mandir' or 'Kanch Mandir'. It is founded and established by Swami Satyananda, an ardent follower of the Swami Abhedananda, who was one of the sixteen direct disciples of Ramakrishna Paramahamsa. Set against the backdrop of River Hoogly, the atmosphere here is serene and calm and this is in complete contrast to the usual fanfare that is a regular feature in most Indian temples.
Established in 1959, Birla Industrial & Technological Museum is a parent body to all Science Centers and Museums under the National Council of Science Museums and holds the distinction of being the first Science and Industrial museum in the country. BITM started as a hardcore museum documenting the history of scientific growth with galleries of Communication, Iron & Steel, Popular Science, Transport, Electronics and TV. However, to keep up with the rapid progress of science and technology, it is now a full-fledged Science Center with an aim to inculcate in visitors the basic principles of science. While it retains the original galleries, BITM has introduced a myriad interactive exhibits and educational shows like Fun Science Show, Science Magic Show, Fascinating Physics show, etc. Although the vast contents of this museum would help any visitor, children and students are the main target audience here. The science center also organizes a number of events throughout the year including lectures, seminars and exhibitions that cover important and relevant topics. Check website for details on daily shows, student tours etc.