DAY 2: KOLKATA – BAWALI – KOLKATA
After breakfast, head out for an excursion to Bawali to visit The Rajbari
The Rajbari itself, an extraordinary, architectural masterpiece, as built around 250 years ago. It saw over 170 years of grand living, parties and eminent guests but unfortunately post-independence, the Zamindars lost much of their wealth and the house started to fall into disrepair. The property has now been fully restored to showcase the fabulous past, architecture, opulence and history of this small part of the 24 Parganas; but more than that, it has created the perfect setting from which to assist in the revival of and showcasing the traditional performing arts of Bengal. In addition there is a strong focus on showcasing and supporting the local arts and crafts still employed by the surrounding village communities.
Enjoy a rustic rural walk around the property
A group of ladies gather to wash pots in one of the village ponds, a monitor lizard swims lazily by, children on aged bikes far too big for them, competently cycle past, smiling on their way to school. Men loiter at the village shop chatting and smoking a bidi; the priest, having performed the morning puja, ambles down to take up his seat for the rest of the day, at his shack, selling paan and other essential items to the passing villagers. An old, traditionally clad woman cooks up puffed rice over a kadhai filled with black sand and invites you to try some. Every day is similar, though seldom exactly the same. The gentle, slow pace of life in the village surrounding the Rajbari, where the villagers welcome you with warm hearts and brilliant smiles, will lure you with its charm.
After lunch, transfer back to the city for a guided visit of Victoria Memorial and Mother’s House