Department of English Language and Literature, Adamas University
Date: 26th March, 2025
As part of their Experiential Learning initiative, MA students of the DSE courses—Film Adaptation, City in Contemporary Indian Writing, and Food and Literature—embarked on a vibrant field exploration across Central and North Kolkata. The journey wasn’t just about sightseeing—it was an immersive attempt to understand the city as text, as archive, and as palate.
The walk began at Chandni Chowk, followed by a pit stop at Crystal Chimney and a visit to the historic Bow Barracks, soaking in the living remnants of colonial Calcutta. Students sampled treats at JN Barua Bakery, wandered through the bustling chaos of Esplanade, passed Medical College, and walked down the iconic College Street, where books and memories line the pavements.
They visited the University of Calcutta and Presidency University, before pausing for a moment of nostalgia and adda at Coffee House. The journey concluded with a refreshing stop at Paramount Sherbets and a reflection session by College Square.
A highlight of the day was the ride on Kolkata’s iconic tramcar—a first for many students. As the tram glided past time-worn streets, it offered a moving frame to the themes discussed in class: cinematic memory, urban transformation, and culinary nostalgia.
This field visit brought together literature, film, and food—allowing students to map not just the geography of the city, but its layered history and culture. Guided by faculty, the excursion highlighted how the streets of Calcutta still speak—through spice, smoke, silence, and story. It was a day of exploration, discovery, and walking through living literature.
