One of the prime cultural and entertainment hubs in the city, Rabindranath Tagore Centre - ICCR is the venue for a number of fascinating events and exhibitions. Founded in 1950, the complex comprises an art gallery, an auditorium, a library and a conference center. From modern dramas, cultural plays and classical concerts, to awe-inspiring works of art, there is more than one way to seek entertainment at this remarkable cultural center.
Nandan was a gift from the government to the cinema and art crazy citizens of Kolkata. Inaugurated by the legendary film-maker Satyajit Ray, the movie theater was opened to public on 2nd September, 1985. What distinguishes it from the current multiplexes is the amazing and vast collection of videos, journals, books and other cinematic research materials preserved and maintained at the in-house library. It also has an entire section, dedicated to the renowned and versatile writer, art director and winner of National awards, Satyajit Ray. Be it the annual Kolkata Film Festival or special movie screenings, there is not a single dull moment at Nandan. It also organizes seminars, lectures and workshops that cover different aspects of cinema. An integral part of the Bengali art and culture, it surely cannot be ignored and with each passing year, the glory furthers. You can also visit Bangla Academy, Gaganendra Prodorshonshala and other cultural centers that share space with Nandan. For more information on the current schedule, call ahead.
Dedicated to the great poet and Nobel laureate Rabindranath Tagore, the Rabindra Sadan represents the cultural cult of Kolkata. Since 1967, it has been delighting art-enthusiasts and has been the focal point of Bengali art and culture. It can be termed as the hub of diverse art-forms comprising drama, dance and other performing arts. Every evening, entirely new dimension of entertainment is presented at Rabindra Sadan. Be it the experimental theater groups or the renowned music maestros; it is the dream of every Bengali artist to perform at this stage. This renowned stage also shares space with Nandan cinema, Bangla Academy and Aganendra Prodorshonshala, making the Rabindra Sadan complex a complete cultural zone. The major attractions around this art-space also include Victoria Memorial, Birla Planetarium and St. Paul's Cathedral.
The Calcutta School of Music was established in the year 1915 by Phillpe Sandre. It is one of the oldest institutions for contemporary classical music and western classical music. The main objective of this school is to teach music and nurture this wonderful talent in one and all. Apart from music it also covers speech training, drama and elocution. It arranges solo music training, concerts and orchestra programs. This institution has more than 1000 students and 38 teachers who are all highly qualified.
Since its inception in 1984 GD Birla Saghagar has been the venue of some of the most memorable performances in the city. Playing host to a number of classical concerts and plays throughout the year, this auditorium offers a glimpse into the rich culture of the state. Boasting unparalleled acoustics, lighting and seating, the experience offered at this venue is second to none in the city.
Situated adjacent to Nicco Park, Nicco Super Bowl is just as entertaining, only in a different format. The first to introduce the much loved sport of bowling to Eastern India, this 8000 square foot facility is entirely dedicated to indoor games. Apart from the six lane bowling alley, Nicco Super Bowl also includes Air Hockey and Pool tables. The space is always crowded with kids and youngsters and the excitement that ensues is truly infectious!
Rabindra Tirtha was built by the West Bengal Housing Infrastructure Development Corporation (WBHIDCO) and opened its doors in 2012. This cultural complex and research institute is an ode to Rabindranath Tagore, one of India's famous sons who inspired many across the world with his literature and Santiniketan. Reminiscent of his ashram, this center has a rustic appeal to it and is spread across 1.98 hectares (4.89 acres) of land. It comprises of art galleries, a mini movie theater, music room, an auditorium, a library, a cafe, souvenir shop and two exhibition halls, one with portraits of the Nobel laureate and the other has his paintings and archives. It also has dorms and cottages for researchers. You can catch all the movies inspired by this eminent author or documentaries on him at the cinema hall. Tagore fans will also enjoy the vast selection of his songs in the music room.