According to renowned art critic Mr.Morris, "Writer’s Building is a reflection of the East India Company's intention to create diagrams of supremacy or grand structures with the message of hegemony or supremacy over the natives.”
The Writer’s Building, Kolkata was constructed during the period between 1776 and 1780 for junior officers of the East India Company. It was one of the most imposing public buildings constructed in that time. Today, the Writer's Building, Calcutta (now Kolkata) is the administrative centre for the State of West Bengal. The West Bengal Cabinet Ministers have their offices located in this majestic British era building. The Chief Minister's office is also located in this building. The Writer's Building, one of the Heritage Buildings in Kolkata, is well-maintained and perhaps does not face the threat of demolition by enterprising real estate developers in the near future.History: History has is that the then Collector of Kolkata assigned the land to British architect Thomas Linas for building a dwelling unit for the clerical staff and writers of the East India Company. Construction of this classic building was completed in the year 1780. Architectural Value: The seat of West Bengal Government – Writer’s Building, Kolkata which is also referred to as "Mahakaran" in Bengali dialect stands majestically on a sprawling 10 acres of land consisting of a total of thirteen four-storeyed edifices.
Writer’s Building, Kolkata is one of the finest examples of classical European architecture in the world still now. The present edifice has witnessed two changes in its facade due to the complain of the then British citizens who were of the opinion that Writer’s Building was like a "shabby hospital". Hence, the East India Company with an intention to raise the image of Writer’s Building, Kolkata brought about significant changes in design and made it look more opulent and grand. Thus, this colossal building was transformed from a purely classical style to an impressive style of European architecture. - Location: North of BBD Bach or Dalhousie Square, Kolkata
- Time to Visit: During office hours (9 am to 6 pm)
- Preferred Timings: Between 9 am to 11 pm
- Time required for sightseeing: 1 hour.
- Admission Fee: Nil
- Photography / Video charges: Photography is strictly prohibited
- Nearby Tourist Attractions: Dalhousie Square, BBD Bagh, Esplanade.
- How to Reach: Local buses and taxis are available from various parts of the city. The place is called Dalhousie Square or BBD Bach.
- Nearest Railway Station: Sealdah Railway Station
- Nearest Metro Station: Esplanade
- Nearest International Airport: Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport, Dumdum. In a nutshell, Writer’s Building, Kolkata or “Mahakaran” is a fine example of the West's attempt to remodel the East's landscape to suit European taste. So you will be quite disappointed if you somehow miss the opportunity to witness this aura of British architecture during your Kolkata Tour!
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