Gazing up at Esplanade Mansions, have you ever wondered about the stories whispered within its walls? This architectural gem, standing proudly at the crossroads of Esplanade Row East and Old Court House Street, holds a captivating history. Esplanade Mansions, built in 1910, is more than just a building. It’s a testament to Kolkata’s rich past. Commissioned by Calcutta’s Jewish real estate magnate, David Joseph Ezra, and constructed by Sir Rajen Mukherjee’s firm, Martin and Co., it stands as possibly the only Art Nouveau building in all of India. Originally designed for residential purposes, its 24 flats offered coveted views of the Government House’s lush gardens. Esplanade Mansions later played a unique role during World War II, serving as the American Library in Calcutta. Imagine the hushed whispers of scholars and the rustle of pages within these historic walls. Even the renowned filmmaker Satyajit Ray recognized the building’s allure, choosing its rooftop as a camera location during the shooting of his 1952 film, “The Philosopher’s Stone (Parash Pathar).” Today, Esplanade Mansions, owned by the Life Insurance Corporation of India, continues to pulse with life. It houses various offices, including those of the Eastern Railways and the Railway Claims Tribunal. While once a neglected shade of pink, a restoration has returned it to its original dazzling white. Esplanade Mansions stands as a symbol of Kolkata’s enduring spirit, a blend of architectural beauty and historical significance. As you admire its unique facade, remember the stories it holds, from wartime library to cinematic backdrop, each a thread in the rich tapestry of Kolkata’s past.
South City Mall
Imagine stepping into a world of retail wonder right here at South City Mall. It is not just a mall.