Santiniketan in Birbhum district, inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage site in 2023, is a cultural treasure that embodies universalism and inclusive education through Visva-Bharati University, founded by Nobel laureate Rabindranath Tagore. This iconic place not only houses the prestigious university but also showcases a vibrant cultural heritage, including the soulful Baul songs, intricate Kantha embroidery, exquisite Shola craft and the visual storytelling tradition of Patachitra.
Santiniketan will host a festival celebrating the cultural treasures around the World Heritage Site from 18 to 20 October 2024. Attendees are invited to explore Santiniketan and its surroundings, including Visva Bharati University and natural sites. The festival will delve into Baul philosophy and musical legacy, featuring visits to Baul Akhras of renowned musicians Rina Das Baul and Rabi Das Baul, as well as the Shola hub at Surul and the Kantha hub at Agartor of Nanoor.
Explore the Visva-Bharati University campus, museum and Tagore’s residence, immersing yourself in the profound legacy of Rabindranath Tagore. Discover the vibrancy of local Haats, shops and bookstores. For a tranquil escape, head to the banks of the Kopai River. Visit Surul to admire the intricate Shola artistry, the historic Surul Rajbari, and the charming terracotta temples. In the afternoon, delve into the Baul philosophy and musical legacy by visiting Baul Akhras of renowned Baul musicians Rina Das Baul and Rabi Das Baul, located in the vicinity of Santiniketan. Conclude your journey by interacting with Kantha artists of Nanoor to learn about their embroidery tradition, gain insights from their craft, and purchase their beautiful creations.
Check out more arts and crafts festivals here.
How to reach Kolkata
1. By Air: The Kolkata international airport, better known as the Subhash Chandra Bose International Airport, is located at Dumdum. It connects Kolkata with all the major cities of the country as well as the world.
2. By Rail: The Howrah and Sealdah railway stations are the two major railheads situated in the city. Both these stations are well connected to all the important cities of the country.
3. By Road: The West Bengal state buses and various private buses travel to and from different parts of the country at a reasonable cost. Some places near Kolkata are Sunderbans (112 km), Puri (495 km), Konark (571 km) and Darjeeling (624 km).
One can travel to Bolpur Santiniketan from Kolkata via Bardhaman or, from Durgapur via Panagarh. Nearest railway station is Bolpur.
Source: Goibibo
1. Light and airy cotton clothes; Kolkata is typically very hot in March.
2. A sturdy water bottle, if the festival has refillable water stations, and if the venue allows bottles to be taken inside.
3. Comfortable footwear such as sneakers (a perfect option if it’s not likely to rain).
4. COVID packs: Hand sanitiser, extra masks and a copy of your vaccination certificate are things you should keep handy.
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