South Delhi’s Chittaranjan Park, commonly called CR Park, is well-known for its thriving Bengali community as well as for its fish shops, temples and cultural institutions. The region continues to have a sizable Bengali community, making it a centre of Bengali culture in Delhi despite its expanding cosmopolitanism. We will examine the history, culture, demography and landmarks of Chittaranjan Park in this article.
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See also: Indraprastha Park Delhi: Travel guide
CR Park: History
Chittaranjan Park’s history can be traced to the early 1960s when EPDP Colony (East Pakistan Displaced Persons Colony) was founded there on rocky terrain. In the 1980s, the park’s name was changed to honour Chittaranjan Das, a patriotic figure. The region was created to give a place to live to the East Bengali residents who had to flee their homes due to the violence that followed India’s Partition.
A group of government officials from East Bengal, including Chandra Kumar Mukherjee, Subodh Gopal Basumallik, Ashutosh Dutta, Bimal Bhusan Chakraborty and the Chief Election Commissioner, Shyamaprasanna Senverma, came up with the idea of creating a residential neighbourhood for displaced East Bengal residents. In the 1960s, the land was allotted in the then-distant Southern regions, in a dry, stony region. Participants had to show proof of their address and be “already dwelling in Delhi and gainfully employed in the capital” in order to join. Based on this, 2,147 individuals received land plots, initially as 99-year leases that were later changed to freehold ownership.
The original layout included several marketplaces and cultural areas in addition to more than two thousand plots organised into eleven blocks, A-K. Nonetheless, 714 displaced families were housed among others who had missed the earlier deadline in the 1990s. New blocks were created as a result, including M, N, O, P, K-1, K-2, Pocket 40 (also known as Navapalli), Pocket 52 (also known as Dakhinpalli), and Pocket-K. Bipin Chandra Pal Marg serves as the colony’s principal road.
A branch of the Raisina Bengali School, the Kali Mandir (also known as the Shiv Mandir), the Bangiya Samaj, and Chittaranjan Bhawan are notable institutions located in Chittaranjan Park.
CR Park: Demographics
Although it continues to draw Bengalis (with ties to West Bengal) in general, the colony was originally formed with plots going primarily to migrants from East Bengal. Nevertheless, with time, the demographics have changed to become more pan-Indian. It has grown to be the most significant representation of Bengali culture in the city. Property values in South Delhi have increased dramatically, and a number of well-known builders have moved in to start building infrastructure. It has thus developed into a posh and wealthy area.
CR Park: Culture and landmarks
South Delhi’s Chittaranjan Park (CR Park) is a well-known district. During the partition of India, a sizable number of Bengalis moved there from West Bengal and Bangladesh. As a result, the area has a distinct cultural identity and is frequently called “mini Kolkata.” We shall examine the history and famous sites of Chittaranjan Park in this article.
Culture
Chittaranjan Park is centred on Bengali culture. The lively Durga Puja celebrations that take place there every year in September or October are well-known. A Hindu celebration called Durga Puja honours the goddess Durga’s victory over the demon Mahishasura. The holiday is fervently observed and features extravagant feasts and rituals.
CR Park is turned into a colourful and energetic location for the celebration of Durga Puja, with pandals (temporary structures) erected for the idol of Goddess Durga, which is worshipped there. During this time, thousands of people come to CR Park from all across Delhi and the surrounding states to see the beauty of the festival.
South Delhi’s Chittaranjan Park area is a dynamic and diverse community with a strong cultural heritage. The region is well recognised for having a sizable Bengali community and for hosting festivals and activities to honour Bengali culture.
Many landmarks that reflect the region’s historical, religious, and cultural importance may be found there. Everyone may find something to enjoy in CR Park, from the Kali Bari temple to the market. The area has changed throughout time and now boasts a variety of restaurants providing traditional Bengali food, making it a popular destination for foodies. The inexpensive yet stylish clothing and accessories available in the neighbourhood markets are well-known. The region is well connected to many forms of transportation, making it simple to get to.
FAQs
What is the history of Chittaranjan Park?
Chittaranjan Park was founded in the early 1960s as the EPDP Colony, later renamed in honour of the deshbandhu Chittaranjan Das. The neighbourhood was created to provide housing for East Bengali residents who had to flee their homes due to the violence that followed India's Partition.
What is the demographic makeup of Chittaranjan Park?
While the neighbourhood was originally formed with plots primarily going to migrants from East Bengal, the demographics have changed over time to become more pan-Indian. However, it remains a significant representation of Bengali culture in the city.
What cultural institutions and landmarks can be found in Chittaranjan Park?
Chittaranjan Park is home to several notable institutions and landmarks, including the Kali Mandir (also known as the Shiv Mandir), the Bangiya Samaj, and Chittaranjan Bhawan. The neighbourhood is also known for its lively Durga Puja celebrations.
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