Nawabganj, North 24 Parganas


Nawabganj is a locality in North Barrackpur Municipality of North 24 Parganas district in the Indian state of West Bengal. It is a part of the area covered by Kolkata Metropolitan Development Authority. The locality is situated beside the Hooghly River and is surrounded by Palta Water Works, Barrackpore Air Force Station and Rifle Factory Ishapore. It is densely populated where the majority of the population are Bengalis and is well connected with Kolkata by highways and railroads with adequate public transportation facility.

Origin of name

The name Nawabganj was originated from the word "Nawab" which means King. It is believed that in early days, the Nawabs built their residence in this area because of its scenic beauty and easily accessible trade route through the Hooghly river. The literal meaning of the name is "King’s village".

History

Though there is no clear evidence that gives an idea about the time when this town was first established but there is no doubt that this area is one of the oldest part among the surrounding neighborhoods. Many early 18th centuries buildings are still be found across this town. Some historical canons also have been kept inside the Ichapore Rifle Factory premises remembering the age old history of this area.

Roads and transport

; By road: Nawabganj by road from Kolkata via State Highway 1. Taxis and buses are easily available from Kolkata.
; By rail: Local trains from Sealdah Eastern Railway main line run very frequently. The nearby stations are Palta railway station and Ichhapur railway station.
; By air: Nearest airport is at Kolkata, which is air linked with all major Indian and international cities. Nawabganj is only by road from the airport.
; By water: Nawabganj is also connected to Champdani, the other side of the river, by a ferry service. The frequency is 15–20 minutes.

People

Most of the population here are Bengalis and the native language is Bangla. People are very friendly in nature and spend a peaceful life.

Culture and festivals

Durga Puja is the biggest festival of Bengalis and this town is also not an exception. Local societies put up their pandals almost each and every locality of this area and decorates with lights and sounds. This festival continues for four days and everyone becomes part of it. Jagadhatri Puja is another biggest festival in this area. In terms of decorations and celebrations, it also attracts lot of outside visitors and continues for four days just same as Durga Puja. Another festival that also an integral part of the culture of this town is Jhulan Mela. This social fair is celebrated in the occasion of Lord Krishna’s birthday and continues for 10–15 days. There are two or three "Temple" or "Thakurbati" named as "Gopinath jew mandir", "Sridhar Narayan thakur bati", "Gobindo bati". The above mention "Jhulan mela" celebrates on the birthday of Lord Sri krishna. In that time, as per mythology, the different pause of lord was adorned / decorated by the Temple priest. Lord krishna and Radha and all team mates were looking so nice. On the other hand, Devi Swaraswati also came to maximum house in that time. Swaraswati puja also famous in Nawabganj. We all know about Jagadhatri puja in Chandannagar, but Nawabganj also called Second Chandannagar for huge Jagadhatri puja. Specially Jhulantala, Gajitala, Moyrapara, and other places.

Education

This small town is also a major hub of quality education with various primary, secondary and higher secondary schools. The literacy rate in this area is very high with many engineers, doctors, teachers and professionals.

List of some schools

Nawabganj is located at. It has an average elevation of.