Kolkata has woven its own celestial narrative over the years, one that goes beyond the pages of history books and into the heart of its residents. Amateur astronomy, with its roots stretching back centuries, has not only made a mark in this vibrant city but has become an integral part of its cultural fabric. Hidden beneath its bustling streets and colonial architecture is a community of amateur astronomers who have been exploring the mysteries of the night sky for generations.
The roots of amateur astronomy in Kolkata can be traced back to the 18th century when the city was the capital of British India. The British East India Company’s presence in the region attracted scholars and scientists, many of whom were passionate about the night sky. The construction of the Calcutta Observatory in 1786 was a significant milestone in this journey. It became a centre for astronomical research and public outreach. Prominent figures, like William Roxburgh and William Jones, accomplished astronomers and naturalists, contributed to the early development of amateur astronomy in Kolkata. They conducted important observations and fostered a spirit of scientific curiosity among the local population.
In 1892, the Astronomical Society of Kolkata was founded, marking a turning point in the history of amateur astronomy in the city. The society aimed at promoting the study of astronomy and creating a platform for enthusiasts to share their passion.
Kolkata’s passion for stargazing continued into the next century, during which amateur curiosity was modernised and institutionalised with the advent of Birla Planetarium, the second oldest planetarium in Asia. “Since our journey started in 1 962, the interest in amateur astronomy spread from Kolkata to the rest of the country, with an increasing number of people visiting from other cities and countries to see our exhibition. In the early 1990s, we started an evening course to cope with the burgeoning interest in astronomy among youngsters. It was the first such evening course in the country, ” said Alokananda Ghosh, professor of astronomy at Birla Planetarium.
Talking about the importance of Kolkata as a base for the growth of amateur astronomy in India, Ghosh said, “Kolkata is a Mecca for astronomy in India. Following the largest and most influential planetariums in the world in London and Moscow, we have been able to draw new talent and skill from Kolkata and engage a global audience in our work. Astronomy is an extremely inclusive subject and the amateur astronomy scene in Kolkata plays a big part in bridging gaps among the celestial-watching sub cultures across India. Today, telescopes are easily available and those belonging to the sub culture spend a lot of time studying the subject and sharing their findings. ”
Ghosh said that amateur a stronomers play as much of a role in unearthing the mysteries of the universe as professional researchers. To sustain this curiosity, sky watching events and exhibitions are held across the year at key places in the city. Abhijit Biswas, also from the Birla Planetarium, said that in July, there was an annual astrophotography workshop.
Experts say the amateur astronomy scene in Kolkata plays a big part in bridging gaps among the celestial-watching sub cultures across India
“While the light pollution in the Kolkata sky makes it difficult to see, the experience excites visitors who want to try sky watching and photography in locations at higher altitudes where there is less light,” he said. In April, the lawns of Victoria Memorial were studded with telescopes during a series of “astro nights” — the first such large-scale event after Covid which attracting a crowd from all age de mographics. The amateur astronomy circuit in Kolkata is perpetually evolving. While dozens of smallscale sky watchers’ groups have died out over time, new ones are constantly formi ng. Professor in astrobiology Santanu Roy set up an amateur astronomy centre in his South Dum Dum home before Covid. Having started his collection of telescopes in 2011, Roy’s home museum also showcases possibly the only solar telescope in Kolkata.
“A big factor which sustains our interest in the sky is the increasing notion that mankind’s time on Earth is limited, especially with global warming. There is an extreme need to engage in dialogues about what else is out in space. We come to realise that as a life form on Earth, we are quite insignificant in the larger scheme of the universe. And that is fascinating,” said Roy.
