One of my wife’s school friends, who was born and brought up in Kolkata’s Chinese community and now lives in Canada, was back in the city visiting her family for Chinese New Year. Naturally, it was the perfect excuse for us to celebrate the festival together in Tangra.
Kolkata has a fascinating Chinese heritage. For nearly two centuries, Chinese families have been an integral part of the city’s cultural fabric, although the community has gradually dwindled as many families have moved overseas. But rather than turn this into a history lesson, this was simply about being there, celebrating, eating, laughing and enjoying the occasion with friends and family.
For me, though, there was an unexpected trip down memory lane.
I had quite a few Chinese friends back in school, and I remember actually being part of Chinese New Year celebrations with them. We would join the Dragon Dance and the festivities as a group, completely caught up in the excitement of it all. Looking back, that feels like it happened in another lifetime!
So, being in Tangra again, surrounded by the sounds, colours, food and energy of the celebrations brought many of those memories rushing back. The Dragon Dance, the familiar atmosphere and the community coming together felt wonderfully nostalgic.
But this time there was something new as well. I wasn't there as a schoolboy tagging along with friends; I was there with my wife, celebrating with her old friend and her family.
Old memories, new experiences, familiar traditions and good company — Chinese New Year in Tangra turned out to be much more than just a festival. It was a lovely reminder of how some connections, no matter how much time passes, have a way of bringing the past and present together.
Gong Xi Fa Cai! 🐉🧧
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