Which city of India is known as the City of Joy?
A. Mumbai
B. Chennai
C. Kolkata
D. Delhi
Answer: Kolkata.
Explanation: Kolkata is called the City of Joy due to its rich culture, literature, festivals, and vibrant social life.
Kolkata – City of Joy (Quiz)
50 Lesser-Known Facts About Kolkata – The City of Joy
Kolkata, often called the City of Joy, has a rich history, deep culture, and many lesser-known aspects that go beyond common GK.
History & Heritage
- Kolkata was formed by merging three villages: Sutanuti, Govindapur, and Kalikata.
- The name “Kolkata” is derived from Kalikata, not directly from Goddess Kali.
- Kolkata was the first capital of British India.
- It remained the British capital until 1911.
- The first Supreme Court of British India was established here.
- Kolkata has the oldest operating High Court in India.
- The city was the center of the Bengal Renaissance.
- Many early freedom movements originated from Kolkata.
- Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose began his political journey here.
- Kolkata was India’s first planned colonial city.
Transport & Infrastructure
- Kolkata has the oldest metro railway system in India.
- It is the only Indian city where trams still operate.
- Howrah Railway Station is among the busiest in the world.
- Howrah Bridge was built without using nuts and bolts.
- Kolkata Port is India’s only major riverine port.
- The port is located nearly 200 km inland from the sea.
- Kolkata Metro runs underneath the Hooghly River.
- The city once had Asia’s largest jute-based transport economy.
Education & Intellectual Life
- University of Calcutta was established in 1857.
- It is considered Asia’s first modern university.
- Kolkata has produced multiple Nobel laureates.
- The Asiatic Society houses rare ancient manuscripts.
- Presidency College shaped many national leaders.
- Kolkata was the birthplace of modern Indian journalism.
- Some of India’s earliest scientific institutions were set up here.
Culture & Society
- Durga Puja of Kolkata is recognized as UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage.
- Puja pandals are treated as temporary architectural art.
- Kolkata is often called the cultural capital of India.
- The city has India’s oldest surviving Chinatown.
- Football enjoys more popularity than cricket here.
- Mohun Bagan is one of Asia’s oldest football clubs.
- Theatre has a stronger following than cinema.
- Coffee House culture shaped intellectual debates.
- “Adda” (informal discussion) is a recognized social tradition.
- Bengali literature from Kolkata shaped modern Indian thought.
Food & Daily Life
- Kolkata popularized Rasgulla globally.
- Mishti Doi is traditionally set in earthen pots.
- Puchka differs from panipuri in spice composition.
- Fish is a daily staple in many households.
- The city has some of India’s oldest sweet shops.
Unique & Surprising Facts
- College Street once had Asia’s largest book market.
- Books are still sold by weight in College Street.
- Kolkata has more heritage buildings than any other Indian city.
- Victoria Memorial is built using Makrana marble.
- The city still uses heritage street lighting in some areas.
- Handwritten posters are a common cultural feature.
- Kolkata adopted modern postal services very early.
- It was India’s first city to have electric street lighting.
- Kolkata influenced Indian art, politics, cinema, and philosophy together.
- The spirit of Kolkata is rooted in intellectual joy and resilience.