Culture of SiliguriA truly cosmopolitan city, Siliguri bears witness not only to historic and geographical events which shaped its being but also to the continuous changes in the demographic structure and consequent cultural flux and evolution. The population of Siliguri grew exponentially after independence and partition with large scale immigration of refugees from East Pakistan (now Bangladesh), Nepal and migration from Assam. In addition, communities from various parts of India like the Bengalis, Biharis, Marwaris and Punjabis have come to Siliguri for its attractive trading opportunities as a business hub.
Culture of Siliguri
These diverse groups of people from different class and communal backgrounds have brought their distinctive cultural ethos with them. Not only this, they in turn have assimilated the socio-cultural dynamics of other communities, thus creating a culturally enriched and vibrant Siliguri, a traveller’s sheer delight. So before you travel to this mystic land of conglomerating communities and cultures, here’s a short background information for quick help:
Language of SiliguriAs a land which has embraced such a diverse population, there are many local languages in Siliguri. The official languages here are Bengali, English and Hindi. Some of the other regional languages which are spoken here are Nepali, Bihari, Marwari, Assamese, Bhojpuri, Punjabi, Gujrati and Tibetan.
Dance and Music in Siliguri
Lakhe Dance performed by Nepali Dancer at Siliguri Dashain Festival
Food Styles in SiliguriAs with everything else in this cosmopolitan city, the food in Siliguri is bound to be multi-cultural. From vegetarian to non-vegetarian, Chinese, Tamdoori, Bengali, South Indian and Continental, Siliguri caters to every taste bud and food choices of both the local population and the numerous tourists to this city. Besides its multi-cuisine restaurants, one must not forget to taste the signature momos or dumplings found in Siliguri’s roadside joints. These are usually made of beef, pork, chicken and vegetables. Along with this, a glass of authentic north-eastern tea and the intoxicating drink chhang made of barley are a must try.
Fairs and Festivals of Siliguri
Handicrafts fair in Siliguri
Siliguri also organizes the fashion week during the winter season for popular entertainment. Around the same time, i.e. between the festive season commencing from mid-October to mid-December a number of local clubs in Siliguri organize concerts for the local population.
Cultural Clubs in SiliguriThere are a number of cultural clubs in Siliguri. Apart from hosting numerous group theatres, they also organize music concerts. Besides, clubs which cater to people with similar affinities like the Automobile Club, Cine Club, Laughing Club, Astronomy Club and Sky Watcher’s Association of North Bengal have also added their distinctive cultural mark to the socio-cultural dynamics of Siliguri.
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