The Howrah Bridge Speaks: Ek Kahani Bangal Ki Pehchan Ki
The Howrah Bridge Speaks: Ek Kahani Bangal Ki Pehchan Ki
Namaskar,
Welcome to Kolkata, The City of Joy.
Priyo Atitithi!
I am the iconic Howrah Bridge. Are you visiting Kolkata via train (Howrah Station)? If yes, then find me welcoming you right outside the station. Standing tall over the Hooghly River, I am the one to connect the happening city of Kolkata with Howrah since 1943. Kolkata and my connection are like the blood and veins. If you consider me just as a bridge… then hold on, dear Atithi… you are making a mistake. I am more than just a bridge—I am history, culture, and solidity woven into steel. Many visits Kolkata to explore architectural and historical excellence of mine.
Before I was born, there was a floating pontoon bridge. It used to carry travelers across the river. But as Kolkata grew, it was difficult for the pontoon bridge to match the expectations of the evolving city. There was a need for a stronger connection. That’s when I was born, a marvel of engineering. Can you believe I am crafted and stand strong without a nut or bolt? Sounds unbelievable? Yes, you heard it right—I am a cantilever bridge. I am your Howrah Bridge, and I was crafted using more than 26,500 tons of steel. The major volume of steel used to build me was supplied by Tata Steel.
I have existed since the days of World War II. I was like a strong yet silent guardian, and the world around me trembled. It was the hard work of the British engineers, and I was designed with war precautions in mind. I was built strong to withstand air raids. Through the decades, I have watched the city evolve. From hand-pulled rickshaws and trams to modern cars and buses- I witnessed them all.
It will be unbelievable for you when you get to know that more than 100,000 vehicles and 150,000 pedestrians cross me every day. I am The Howrah Bridge and am one of the busiest bridges in the world.
But I am more than numbers—I am the heartbeat of Kolkata city. I have seen lovers whisper dreams while holding hands, standing by the side of the bridge, workers rushing to their jobs, and devotees heading to the famed Dakshineswar Temple. Now, I am a hotspot for Photographers. They capture my beauty at sunrise, and at night, my illuminated frame shimmers over the river like a guardian spirit of the city. Do you know I am considered the ideal backdrop for pre-wedding shoots of couples? I am popular as Howrah Bridge, but I also have another name.
The city calls me the Rabindra Setu now. I got named after Bengal’s beloved poet Rabindranath Tagore, but to most, I am still the Howrah Bridge—an enduring symbol of Kolkata’s strength and soul.
Dear Atithi, when you stand here, take a deep breath, and you will listen to the whispers of the Kolkata City narrating my story. Listen to the murmur of traffic, the yells of boatmen below, and feel the breezy wind of the Hooghly River. It is my song, and it holds the melody of Kolkata.
Dear Athithi, keep visiting my city, and I promise to make you feel special. I am Howrah Bridge, and you will find me standing strong, connecting dreams across the river.
It is my story, and I hope you like it.
With Lots of Love
Yours Truly
The Howrah Bridge
This blog post is part of ‘Blogaberry Dazzle’
hosted by Cindy D’Silva and Noor Anand Chawla.
What a unique way to tell the story of Howrah Bridge! I love how you’ve brought its history and significance to life, making it more than just a bridge. It’s so fascinating to learn about its engineering marvels and how it connects people, both literally and emotionally, in Kolkata. Such a beautiful tribute to the city’s soul!
Very sweet Samata. I recall taking the ferry from the station and going near the bridge. It truly is an iconic symbol of Kolkata. I like the wedding pix you have generated. Imagining a wedding by the bridge now.
That was such a sweet post. I can totally imagine the hustle bustle of the city passing through the bridge. It is city’s lifeline and an engineering marvel! I was not aware that the bridge has been renamed but it shall always remain our beloved Howrah Bridge!
It is such a sweetly captured tale of the iconic bridge from its own mouth, or should I say iron and bolts. Enjoyed reading.
This was such a lovely read Samata. The way you gave Howrah Bridge a voice made it feel so real, like it’s actually talking to us. It truly feels like the heart of Kolkata. Beautifully written.
Howrah Bridge has been an iconic landmark of the city of Joy. I have seen it and been on it, it did not seem like a huge revelation when i first saw it but when you think of the years for it has been around and its history , you understand its importance.
The first image I had on reading the title of your post was Madhubala singing babuji dheere chalna! Why? Because it is from a movie called howrah bridge! Great reading about the history of the Howrah bridge and beautiful pictures!
Nice post! I just imagined every monumental piece of structure in any city being a silent witness to the “growth”/swelling of the cities.
It is beautiful Atmakatha of Hawara Bridge. It sounds like the Iconic Hawara Bridge is talking with me. I didn’t know the history behind it. Love your way of blogging.
You have given a beautifully innocent voice to this amazing structure, nay, a living thing that throbs with life. I am loving this series of yours even as you give voice to buildings and structures that speak volumes.
The Howrah Bridge isn’t just an architectural marvel; it’s a living, breathing symbol of Bengal’s soul! I love how this post gives the bridge its own voice, weaving history with emotion.
What a unique perspective. Personifying the bridge was so beautiful. I loved this
Having grown up in Kolkata, I’ve crossed this bridge a million times, I’ve been stuck in traffic jams for hours here, I’ve had wonderful memories here…thanks for bringing all those wonderful memories back, Samata.
There isn’t a Kolkata story that doesn’t mention Howrah Bridge. It features prominently in travel posts and stories and is such a sight! Thinking of the make-believe set in Chingari koi bhadke…
I have always wanted to visit Kolkata, especially for the yellow taxis, I think that’s going to be a dream. However, your fun story on Howrah bridge will always be remembered and I will surely visit it someday soon.
Oh wow what an amazing narrative. I want to visit Kolkata to experience these moments
This is a beautifully crafted story that brings the Howrah Bridge to life! Its emotions and strength unfold beautifully, capturing history, and resilience, making readers feel its timeless presence. It’s a captivating read. A must-read for heritage lovers!!
It is a captivating take on the iconic Howrah Bridge, beautifully weaving its historical and cultural significance into a heartfelt narrative. The way it stands as a symbol of Bengal’s identity and resilience is truly fascinating. A must-watch for those who love history and heritage!
The first thing that comes to mind when people say Bengal is the iconic “Howrah Bridge”. This blog gave such a beautiful history about it. A must read:)
This post beautifully captures the essence of the Howrah Bridge! The history and significance are so fascinating. It makes me appreciate the bridge even more as a symbol of Kolkata’s rich heritage.
I was fortunate to Visit kolkata few years ago and to experience the nostalgia of this iconic howrah bridge, an engineering marvel. Ever since i visited i used to explore the content available over internet to get more insights of this bridge, now that your blog consolidates everything about the howrah bridge.
What a beautifully woven narrative! The Howrah Bridge truly feels alive in this post, carrying Kolkata’s history, culture, and emotions. Loved learning about its engineering marvels and deep significance!