Have you ever risen at 4:30 AM to savour piping hot momos? Does it seem unusual to indulge in momos so early in the morning? Well, this unique culinary tradition is a vibrant aspect of Kolkata’s Chinese settlement heritage. To witness the fervour for Chinese breakfast, pay a visit to Tiretta Bazaar on an early Sunday morning.
Kolkata, the proud capital of West Bengal, is renowned not only for its storied history, cultural diversity, and intellectual heritage but also for the flourishing Chinese community nestled right in its heart. This vibrant settlement, often affectionately referred to as Tangra, has a history dating back to the late 18th century, and it is in places like the bustling Tiretta Bazaar that the captivating fusion of cultures and culinary delights come to life.
The saga of the Chinese community’s establishment in Kolkata finds its origins in the late 18th century. During this period, a wave of Chinese immigrants, predominantly from the southern Chinese province of Guangdong, set foot in the city. Their aspirations were tethered to the promise of improved economic prospects as they sought their fortunes near the bustling port of Calcutta, now known as Kolkata, a prominent epicentre of trade and commerce.
Tangra, nestled in the eastern reaches of Kolkata, blossomed as the nucleus of the Chinese community’s settlement. Through the passage of time, Tangra has metamorphosed into a lively enclave, faithfully encapsulating the very spirit of Chinese culture while gracefully coexisting with the broader Bengali milieu. Its character is painted with narrow winding lanes, bustling markets, and the delightful fragrances of both Chinese and Bengali cuisine wafting through the air.
A remarkable facet of the Chinese settlement in Kolkata is the effortless melding of Chinese and Bengali cultures. This vibrant fusion is most vividly showcased in the realm of gastronomy. Bengali Chinese cuisine, adorned with tantalizing dishes such as “hakka noodles”, “chilli chicken”, and “manchurian”, stands as a living testament to this harmonious amalgamation. These culinary creations, distinguished by the robust flavours of Chinese cuisine entwined with Bengali ingredients, have garnered widespread acclaim, not just within Kolkata but across the expanse of India.
The Chinese community in Tangra has reverently upheld its religious heritage by establishing sacred temples. Within the heart of Tangra, two esteemed places of worship, the Sea Ip Church and the Nam Soon Church, gracefully stand as both spiritual sanctuaries and vibrant community hubs. These temples play an indispensable role in nurturing the spiritual and cultural bonds that bind the community together.
Among the notable celebrations in Tangra, the Chinese New Year, often referred to as the Spring Festival, shines as one of the most significant. This exuberant event paints the streets with lively processions, captivating dragon and lion dances, and the cherished custom of distributing red envelopes, known as “hongbao,” to invoke good fortune. The festivities surrounding the Chinese New Year in Tangra serve as a testament to the community’s unwavering commitment to preserving their cultural identity and sharing it with the broader Kolkata populace.
The Chinese settlement in Kolkata stands as a robust pillar of economic contribution to both the city and the state of West Bengal. Among their prominent areas of engagement, the leather industry shines as a thriving sector, deeply rooted in Tangra for decades. The Chinese-owned tanneries in this region have earned a reputation for their exceptional craftsmanship, playing a pivotal role in bolstering Bengal’s leather exports.
Despite their deep-rooted presence in Kolkata, the Chinese community has encountered challenges related to their sense of identity, assimilation, and a declining population. The emigration of many Chinese families has led to a smaller yet resilient community in Kolkata.
Nevertheless, the endeavour to preserve Chinese culture and heritage continues unabated. Cultural events and festivals, such as the vibrant Chinese New Year celebrations, play a pivotal role in sustaining the community’s time-honoured traditions. Younger generations are displaying a growing interest in embracing their Chinese heritage, offering promise for the safeguarding of this unique legacy.
The Chinese settlement in Kolkata serves as a testament to the city’s ethos of inclusivity and harmony. It symbolizes a remarkable fusion of cultures, where Chinese customs have seamlessly intertwined with Bengali traditions, resulting in a distinctive and cherished way of life. Beyond the culinary delights and cultural festivities, the Chinese community in Kolkata has made substantial economic contributions, playing a significant role in shaping the city’s development.
As Kolkata evolves and embraces its multifaceted identity, it becomes increasingly crucial to acknowledge and celebrate the rich heritage of the Chinese settlement. This serves as a reminder of the enduring spirit of cultural coexistence and harmony. By doing so, we ensure that this distinctive chapter in Kolkata’s history remains a vibrant and treasured part of the city’s cultural tapestry for generations to come.
