West Bengal
Trouble brews in Bengal’s tea gardens
While India is the second largest producer of tea in the world, the tea gardens in Bengal face many issues. A few initiatives will help the tea gardens thrive.
Immersing in tradition: A pictorial tale of West Bengal’s Charak puja
Charak puja honors Shiva and Kali, symbolising renewal, forgiveness, and agricultural prosperity. It is celebrated on the occasion of Chaitra Sankranti, the last day (April 14) of the month of Chaitra, which is followed by the Bengali New Year.
West Bengal’s famous handloom industry in peril
The rich heritage of handloom of West Bengal is dying a rapid death due to factors linked to the lockdown, migration, competition from powerlooms and Government negligence.
Meet the woman who walks many a mile to deliver mail
Working at a post office where her late husband had held the same job, Alaka Mahato, a mother of three, walks every day to a few villages in Bengal to deliver mail, happy to carry on his legacy.
Climate change — With 2 tiger attacks a month, Sundarbans reels under human-animal conflict
Climate change and rising sea levels are pushing farmers deep into the mangroves of the Sundarbans where they become victims of deadly tiger attacks
Bengal farmers turn fans of fingerling farming
Villagers in Purulia district find rearing fingerlings more profitable as they fetch more income in shorter periods than traditional freshwater fish farming.
Bengal teens fight for safer menstrual waste disposal
A group of young women in rural Bengal is redefining empowerment by challenging stigma surrounding menstruation, paving the way for a more inclusive and enlightened society.
Busier than bees: Sundarbans’ honey collectors
For several decades, residents of areas bordering the dense forests of the Sundarbans, have collected honey and gathered crabs for sustenance. They have also grappled with human-wildlife conflict, as tigers and crocodiles continue to pose serious threats.
Banyan tree to a proper classroom, Bengal teacher brings sea change
A head teacher posted at the primary school in the remote village of Gobindpur in West Bengal goes beyond his academic responsibilities to revamp the dilapidated school and transform the village.
Restoring the Sundarbans ecosystem
Proper implementation of mitigation measures and monitoring is needed to restore the mangroves and the rich biodiversity of the Sundarbans ecosystem that has been suffering due to multiple challenges.
Miniaturist preserves legacy of the Darjeeling toy train
‘In the hills of Darjeeling, the toy train runs in my blood,’ says Sanjeev Bagdas, one of the last remaining artists handcrafting miniature replicas of the iconic Himalayan locomotive
8 rural women who got the Padma Shri this year
From training elephants to healing people with herbal medicines, these heart-driven Padma Shri recipients of 2024 are raising the bar in social impact, and establishing a legacy through their contributions.
Bengal Patachitra weaves tales of resilience and expression
Naya village in West Bengal showcases vibrant Patachitra artworks, gaining global attention and adapting to modern times while preserving its traditional art that serves as a vessel for addressing various issues.
What it’s like to travel in an all-woman train
Introduced by the West Bengal government, Matribhumi trains are meant exclusively for women's mobility. Though two mixed compartments were added post the protests in 2015, women still opt for it, valuing its comfort and safety.
Rural fests you can attend this December
India is bursting with celebrations - from colourful traditions and rituals to music, dance, sports and delicious food. Come and experience the magic of India's festivals taking place in December 2023.
We just discovered a hidden gem in Darjeeling
Mist and memories intertwine in the village of Takdah, 28 km from Darjeeling, and as the fog lifts, it reveals not just a destination but a timeless escape into nature’s embrace.
Coming up, a fest to connect with Kalimpong culture
The upcoming Kholey Dai festival celebrates Kalimpong’s culture with folk music, workshops and eco-tourism. It’s being organised by Parengtar village residents along with Muhaan and other local enterprises, in collaboration with Village Square.
Kumhartuli artisans in full swing ahead of Durgo Pujo
West Bengal's artisans flock to Kumhartuli village for crafting Durga idols during Durgo Pujo. Some switch careers for six months while others specialise in making jewellery, attire and wigs.
Bengal farmer on ‘mission mango’ to save the fruit
A passionate farmer is making all efforts to save the disappearing diversity of mangoes in Murshidabad, which once boasted of nearly 200 local varieties.
Inspiring rural women who defied expectations
They had only a dream to start with. And they have made their mark in various fields with a never-quit spirit. This International Day of Rural Women, we revisit some inspiring stories covered on Village Square.