Transforming Urban Decline into Cultural Landscapes of Resilience in Contemporary Kolkata, India

Power of culture-led urban renewal seen through durga puja

Abstract

"Transformation studies are essential for comparing how different civilizations evolve. These studies focus onunderstanding how long-standing beliefs and cultural meanings—rooted in ancient traditions—are impactedby the development of modern society. Modern society introduces new, often very different, values and norms,leading to significant changes in traditional perspectives. So, transformation studies examine how these older beliefs are influenced, modified, or redefined to fit into a rapidly changing, modern world. Cultural festivals are essential platforms for the expression and preservation of a society’s traditions, values, and collective identity. They play a crucial role in safeguarding cultural heritage, fostering social cohesion, and promoting mutual understanding in an increasingly multicultural and globalized world. In this context, cities play a pivotal role in

shaping and maintaining their urban identity, as they serve as dynamic environments where people spend a significant portion of their daily lives. As hubs of diversity and interaction, cities provide the ideal stage for cultural festivals to thrive and connect individuals from different backgrounds, reinforcing a shared sense of belonging.

This thesis explores the historical significance, social impact, and future necessity of a cultural festival related activities and elements that can rethink an urban rejuvenation and simultaneously bring about an economic vitality worldwide. By examining both their traditional roots and modern evolutions, it argues that cultural festivals are not only celebrations of the past but also catalysts for societal growth and intercultural

dialogue, ensuring harmony and continuity for future generations.

Keywords: Transformation, Cultural Identity, Cultural Festivals, Diversity, Tradition, Presevation,Historical significance,

Social Cohesion, urban rethink.

north kolkata as densely populated.

current day infrastructural problems in north kolkata as a result of colonial segregation.

Puja used to resist british raj

-rich historical analysis

-identifies current day urban issues in the city in relation to its economy

-in relation to kumartuli - proposes workshops near khidderpore docks

• why is this not a solution for the kumartuli region?

  • far from the site

  • does not acknowledge the individuality of the studios in relation to their practice and is not a solution for all the people working there.

  • addresses tourism and visibility more than the mritshilpi community or practices of production.