Nawabganj, North 24 Parganas

Nawabganj is a small residential town under Barrackpore subdivision located 25 kilometers north of Kolkata, and in the district of North 24 Parganas, West Bengal, India. This small town is situated beside the Hooghly River and it is surrounded by Palta Water Works, Barrackpore Air Force Station and Ishapore Rifle Factory. The town is densely populated where the majority of the population are Bengalis and is well connected with Kolkata and nearby cities by highways and railroads with adequate public transportation facility.

Origin of name

The name Nawabganj was originated from the word "Nawab" which means King. It is believed that in early days, the Nawabs built their residence in this area because of its scenic beauty and easily accessible trade route through the Hooghly river. The literal meaning of the name is "King’s treasures".

History

Though there is no clear evidence that gives an idea about the time when this town was first established but there is no doubt that this area is one of the oldest part among the surrounding neighborhoods. Lots of early 18th centuries buildings are still be found across this town. Some historical canons also have been kept inside the Ichapore Rifle Factory premises remembering the age old history of this area.

Roads and transport

By road

Nawabganj 25 km (16 mi) by road from Kolkata via State Highway 1. Taxis and buses are easily available from Kolkata.

By rail

Local trains from Sealdah Eastern Railway main line run very frequently (in every 10 or 12 minutes). The nearby stations are Palta and Ichapore.

By air

Nearest airport is at Kolkata (Kolkata Airport), which is air linked with all major Indian and international cities. Nawabganj is only 30 km (19 mi) by road from the airport.

By water

Nawabganj is also connected to Champdani, the other side of the river, by a ferry service. The frequency is 15–20 minutes.

People

Most of the population here are Bengalis and the native language is Bangla. People are very friendly in nature and spend a peaceful life.

Culture and festivals

Durga Puja is the biggest festival of Bengalis and this town is also not an exception. Local societies put up their pandals almost each and every locality of this area and decorates with lights and sounds. This festival continues for 4 days and everyone becomes part of it. Jagadhatri Puja is another biggest festival in this area. In terms of decorations and celebrations, it also attracts lot of outside visitors and continues for 4 days just same as Durga Puja. Another festival that also an integral part of the culture of this town is Jhulan Mela. This social fair is celebrated in the occasion of Lord Krishna’s birthday and continues for 10–15 days.

Education

This small town is also a major hub of quality education with various primary, secondary and higher secondary schools. The literacy rate in this area is very high with many engineers, doctors, teachers and professionals.

List of some schools

• Sridhar Bansidhar High School
• Nawabganj Girls High School
• Ichapore Nawabganj High School
• Kendriya Vidyala
• Bhibhukinkar High School
• Vivekananda Vidyamandir
• Kamalkali Vidyamandir

Geography

Nawabganj is located at 22°47′N 88°21′E / 22.79°N 88.35°E / 22.79; 88.35. It has an average elevation of 12 m (39 ft).

References