History Stories

Tour Guide for General Post Office (GPO), Kolkata Welcome to the General Post Office (GPO) in Kolkata! This iconic structure is not just the city’s primary postal hub but also an architectural marvel and a historical landmark. Let’s take a journey through its rich past and stunning design. 1. Introduction & Importance The GPO Kolkata is the central post office of the city and one of the most famous buildings in India’s postal system. It serves as the headquarters of the West Bengal Circle of the Indian Post . Known for its grand domed architecture and Corinthian columns , the GPO is a landmark of British colonial heritage . 2. Historical Background Built in 1868 by British architect Walter B. Grenville , who was also responsible for several key structures in colonial Calcutta. Constructed during British rule to improve communication and mail services in India. Located in the B. B. D. Bagh (Dalhousie Square) area , which was the center of British administration in Bengal. It wa...

  Lord Curzon, the Viceroy of India (1899–1905), decided to partition Bengal on July 20, 1905 , and the partition came into effect on October 16, 1905 . His official justification was administrative convenience , but the real reasons were deeply political. 1. Official Reason: Administrative Convenience Bengal was the largest and most populous province in British India , with over 80 million people . The British argued that governing such a vast region was difficult , so they divided it into two parts : Western Bengal (Hindu-majority) – Included present-day West Bengal, Bihar, and Odisha . Eastern Bengal (Muslim-majority) – Included present-day Bangladesh and Assam . Curzon justified the partition by saying that smaller provinces would be easier to govern and develop . 2. Real Reason: "Divide and Rule" Policy Bengal was the epicenter of Indian nationalism , with Calcutta (now Kolkata) as the political and cultural hub . Many nationalist leaders, like Surendranath Banerjee, ...

  Lord Curzon’s Lifestyle in Calcutta (1899–1905) Lord Curzon, the Viceroy of India from 1899 to 1905 , lived a lavish and aristocratic life in Government House (now Raj Bhavan) , Calcutta. He was known for his grand lifestyle, strict discipline, and deep interest in India’s history and architecture . 1. Residence: Government House (Raj Bhavan) Curzon resided in Government House , the official residence of the British Viceroy in Calcutta. The palace was inspired by Kedleston Hall , his ancestral home in England. He renovated and modernized the house, adding luxurious furniture and decorations. The Durbar Hall inside Government House was used for official meetings and grand receptions . 2. Daily Routine and Work Ethics Curzon was known for his highly disciplined lifestyle . He would wake up early and begin his day with a detailed review of government reports . He was a workaholic , often spending long hours in his office handling administrative and diplomatic affairs . He had a ...