Kolkata vs. Calcutta — What's the Difference?
By Tayyaba Rehman & Urooj Arif — Updated on May 17, 2024
Kolkata is the modern name of the capital city of West Bengal, India, while Calcutta is the former colonial name used during British rule, now officially replaced by Kolkata.
Difference Between Kolkata and Calcutta
Table of Contents
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Key Differences
Kolkata is the current official name of the capital city of West Bengal, India, reflecting its Bengali pronunciation and heritage. The name change from Calcutta to Kolkata was made in 2001 to honor the city's cultural roots and pre-colonial history. Calcutta, on the other hand, is the Anglicized version used during the British colonial period, which lasted from 1757 to 1947.
Kolkata represents the city's contemporary identity and its efforts to embrace indigenous culture and language. The name change signifies a reclaiming of local heritage and an effort to shed remnants of colonial influence. Calcutta, by contrast, evokes the era of British colonial rule, during which the city was the capital of British India until 1911.
In terms of urban development, Kolkata has grown significantly post-independence, becoming a hub for commerce, culture, and education in eastern India. Calcutta, during colonial times, was a major center for trade and administration, reflecting the British architectural and urban planning styles.
Kolkata is known for its vibrant cultural scene, including festivals, literature, and arts, emphasizing its role as a cultural capital of India. Calcutta historically was also a cultural center but was primarily noted for its colonial institutions and infrastructure.
The transition from Calcutta to Kolkata is part of a broader trend in India to replace colonial names with ones that reflect local languages and heritage. While many still nostalgically refer to the city as Calcutta, the official and widely accepted name is now Kolkata.
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Comparison Chart
Name Origin
Bengali pronunciation
British colonial name
Official Usage
Adopted in 2001
Used during British rule (1757-1947)
Cultural Significance
Emphasizes local heritage
Associated with colonial past
Historical Role
Modern city, cultural hub
Capital of British India until 1911
Urban Development
Post-independence growth
Colonial trade and administration
Compare with Definitions
Kolkata
Major cultural and economic hub in eastern India.
Kolkata hosts numerous cultural festivals throughout the year.
Calcutta
Associated with the colonial era.
Calcutta is remembered for its colonial-era buildings.
Kolkata
The modern name of the capital city of West Bengal, India.
Kolkata is known for its grand Durga Puja celebrations.
Calcutta
The colonial name of Kolkata, used during British rule.
Calcutta was the capital of British India until 1911.
Kolkata
Officially adopted in 2001.
The government changed the name to Kolkata to reflect its roots.
Calcutta
Historical center for trade and administration.
The Port of Calcutta was a major trading hub.
Kolkata
Emphasizes contemporary identity.
Kolkata's skyline is a mix of historic and modern architecture.
Calcutta
Anglicized version of the city's name.
British documents and maps referred to the city as Calcutta.
Kolkata
Reflects the Bengali heritage and pronunciation.
The name Kolkata honors the city's local culture.
Calcutta
Evokes the British architectural and urban planning styles.
Calcutta's Victoria Memorial is a symbol of its colonial past.
Kolkata
Kolkata (English: or , Bengali: [kolˈkata] (listen); previously Calcutta , the official name until 2001) is the capital of the Indian state of West Bengal. Located on the eastern bank of the Hooghly River, the city is approximately 80 kilometres (50 mi) west of the border with Bangladesh.
Calcutta
(pool) A form of auction in which people invest in a player's success
Kolkata
The largest city in India and one of the largest cities in the world; located in eastern India; suffers from poverty and overcrowding
Calcutta
The largest city in India and one of the largest cities in the world; located in eastern India; suffers from poverty and overcrowding
Common Curiosities
When did Calcutta become Kolkata?
The name was officially changed to Kolkata in 2001.
Why was the name changed to Kolkata?
To reflect the Bengali pronunciation and local heritage.
Is there a difference between Kolkata and Calcutta?
Kolkata is the current name, while Calcutta is the former colonial name.
What historical landmarks are associated with Calcutta?
Landmarks like Victoria Memorial and Howrah Bridge are associated with Calcutta.
What was Calcutta's role in British India?
Calcutta served as the capital of British India until 1911.
What are some cultural highlights of Kolkata?
Kolkata is known for its festivals, literature, and arts.
What is the modern name of Calcutta?
The modern name is Kolkata.
What was Calcutta known for during British rule?
Calcutta was the capital of British India and a major trade center.
How is Kolkata significant today?
Kolkata is a major cultural, commercial, and educational hub in eastern India.
Is Kolkata a major city in India today?
Yes, Kolkata is one of the major cities in India.
What language does the name Kolkata reflect?
The name Kolkata reflects the Bengali language.
Are Kolkata and Calcutta the same city?
Yes, they are the same city, but Kolkata is the modern name.
What is a notable festival celebrated in Kolkata?
Durga Puja is a notable festival celebrated with great enthusiasm in Kolkata.
Do people still use the name Calcutta?
Some people nostalgically refer to the city as Calcutta, but Kolkata is the official name.
How has Kolkata evolved post-independence?
Kolkata has seen significant growth and development in commerce, culture, and infrastructure.
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Written by
Tayyaba RehmanTayyaba Rehman is a distinguished writer, currently serving as a primary contributor to askdifference.com. As a researcher in semantics and etymology, Tayyaba's passion for the complexity of languages and their distinctions has found a perfect home on the platform. Tayyaba delves into the intricacies of language, distinguishing between commonly confused words and phrases, thereby providing clarity for readers worldwide.
Co-written by
Urooj ArifUrooj is a skilled content writer at Ask Difference, known for her exceptional ability to simplify complex topics into engaging and informative content. With a passion for research and a flair for clear, concise writing, she consistently delivers articles that resonate with our diverse audience.
