“Beauty of the leaves” is what Parnasree Pally means. Have you ever wondered how this upscale residential area in Behala got such a poetic name?
Parnasree Pally wasn’t always the bustling locality we see today. Once called Halderbagan the land has ties to the Sabarna Roy Chowdhury family. The area’s transformation began after the Partition of India in 1947. Asoke Ratan Mazumder a member of the cooperative society coined the name Parnasree. His vision was to create a haven for refugees.
The story of Parnasree Pally takes an interesting turn during World War II. In 1941 with the threat of a Japanese invasion looming the government acquired Halder Bagan. They planned to build an airstrip. An anti-aircraft gun was installed to protect the area. After the war the land was managed by the Central Government. Parts were given to the Calcutta Port Trust and the local government.
Following India’s independence Dr B.C. Roy the first Chief Minister of West Bengal played a crucial role. He directed the Land and Land Revenue department to develop the land effectively. A cooperative society was formed in 1948. Its purpose was to create a planned township for refugees from East Bengal. Amal Home of Hindusthan Insurance Company led the steering committee.
Plots in New Alipore were too expensive for many Hindusthan employees. They sought information from the new project office. It was then that Asoke Ratan Mazumder suggested the name Parnasree Pally Samabay Samiti. The cooperative society registered the name in October 1948.
Shares were sold to fund the development. Low-lying areas were filled. Robin Routh surveyed and planned the site layouts. Gradually developed lands were transferred to the cooperative. Shareholders received plots after paying a municipal mutation fee.
Today Parnasree Pally thrives with banks post offices and a bustling bus station. The local dhobis are some of the oldest residents. They still live in the Dhopapara area. Parnasree Pally is also near Behala Airport which will become a regional air traffic hub.
Parnasree Pally stands as a testament to resilience and community spirit. From its wartime origins to its role in rehabilitating refugees it has a rich history. The name “beauty of the leaves” reminds us of its green past. It also symbolizes the hope and new beginnings that define this vibrant Kolkata neighborhood. Parnasree Pally continues to evolve while honoring its roots.