Knowledge is wealth, knowledge is power, knowledge is the tool that enables us to dive into our subconscious and ignite the true self that rests in the caves of ignorance. Knowledge comes through various sources and can be implemented in more than one ways, provided that the information gathered through learning is accurate and substantial. To enhance the knowledge and consciousness of people regarding Asian subcontinent, the Asiatic Society was formed as a centre that will house learning material and artifacts for the interested people.
Location
The Asiatic Society is located at 1, Park Street, Kolkata, West Bengal.
History
The Asiatic Society dates back to 1784 when India was being ruled by the Britishers. Sir William Jones, an eminent philologist and scholar, circulated a letter addressing few British residents, informing them about his interest in establishing a society that would focus on Asiatic studies. His letter invoked interest in minds of several Europeans who were serving the British government in different positions. They all gathered at the Supreme Court building and after detailed discussions, they decided to step forward and establish the society in its current name.
The society appointed Warren Hastings, the first Governor-General of India as the President, while William Jones obtained the designation of Vice-President. Though Warren Hastings was not against the society’s purpose, he chose not to hold this position for long. Barely a month after the formation of the society, he decided to quit. Following his advice, William Jones was appointed as the President in February. He served in this position till he breathed his last.
The society, in its initial days, rented the Grand Jury Room of the Supreme Court to conduct all the meetings. It was in 1796, twelve years after the formation, that the society decided to have a building of its own. The then Vice-President of the society, John Herbert Harrington finalized the current location, a corner of the Park Street, as the site where the society building would stand.
The society was granted with the land in 1805. The design of the building was proposed by Captain Thomas Preston. Few modifications were done to the initial design by a French architect, following which a two-stoery building was constructed at the site. In 1808, the new building housed the first meeting of the society and in the same year, the society formed the Physical Committee and Library Committee.
While the Physical Committee was formed with an intention to promote natural history, physics, medical science, etc., the Library Committee was established to promote antiques, literature, history, etc. However, the committee went into a state of termination soon after their formation. The Physical Committee was made operative in 1818. In 1829, the society opened its doors for the Indian people and allowed them to become a member.
In 1814, a museum was established by the society, which became famous for its ever increasing collection of artifacts since its inception. Despite donating much of its collection to the Indian Museum, the society’s museum continues to charm the visitors with what it has to offer in terms of antiques, sculptures, coins, etc.
What to Do
The museum and the library of the Asiatic Society hold thousands and lakhs of books, journals, microfilms, photographs, manuscripts, etc.
The most varied and ancient collection is that of the manuscripts. Interested researchers, scholars, and common visitors can access the collection of Sanskritic manuscripts, English Manuscripts, Islamic manuscripts, Burmese manuscripts and all other sections that store the historical manuscripts in different languages.
The Rare Book Division of the society houses books dating back to thirteenth century.
Eat, Drink, Collect
The building of the Asiatic Society is located at Park Street, a bustling center of the town. Many of the famous restaurants of the city are located here and serve Indian, Continental, Mughlai, North Indian, sea food, fast food, desserts and all types of beverages. You can head to Peter Cat, Shiraz, Maple, Yo China, Bistro by the Park, Golden Dragon, Waldrof, Olypub, Roxy – The Park, Charcoal Grill, etc.
Alcoholic beverages and non-alcoholic beverages too are easy to find here. The various pubs and lounges at the Park Street ensure that the tourists are not left thirsty during their visit.
Due to the presence of a large number of restaurants and lounges, the Park Street is also called the “Food Street” of Kolkata.
As you move around the town, you must head to the New Market, Treasure Island and another local market of the Khidderpore house which are the main local markets, from where one can buy apparels, toys and other collectibles.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Kolkata is during the months of October to February.
How to Reach
Kolkata is one of the four major metropolitans of India, thus it is relatively easy for tourists from India and abroad to visit the Asiatic Society in this capital city of West Bengal.
Within the city, one can travel on the metro rail, trams, train, bus, or private taxis or ferries.
