Kolkata, which is also referred to as 'City of Joy' is the capital of West Bengal. The city is located in the eastern bank of the River Ganges or 'Ganga'. Once upon a time, during the British rule until 1911, Kolkata used to be the capital of India. It is for this reason, the city boasts of a revolutionary history, ranging from the India's struggle for Independence to the leftist and trade union movements. Job Charnock, an administrator with the East India Company is traditionally credited as the founder of this city on 1690.

Kolkata, including its suburban areas, has an overall population over 15 million and covers an area of 185 square km. The city is a prominent commercial and financial hub of Eastern India and other Northeastern States. Besides this, Kolkata is also a major commercial and military port and the only city of the region to have an International airport.

The only Indian City with 'Trams', Kolkata proudly owns the 'Kolkata Metro', the oldest underground system in India.

Kolkata has long been known for its literary, artistic and revolutionary heritage. As the former capital of India, Kolkata has been the initiator of various modern Indian literary and artistic movements. 'Kolkatans' as the residents of the city are fondly called, tend to have a special appreciation for art and literature. The city has a tradition of welcoming new talents for which it is often referred to as a "city of furious creative energy".

The love for the culture and perseverance to nourish art and tradition has often enlightened the name of Kolkata as "cultural capital of India".