‘Chinese Calcuttawallah’ Unveils Kolkata’s Hidden Chinese Identity and Legacy
Authors Roy and Basu have gained exclusive access to explore the private spaces and confidential documents of the Chinese community in Kolkata, shedding light on their unique identity and heritage. Their book, 'Chinese Calcuttawallah', delves into the everyday geography of this community, offering an unprecedented glimpse into their world.
The book focuses on the ethnic economy, highlighting the entrepreneurial spirit of different Chinese communities in Kolkata. It also explores contemporary issues such as 'gentrification', the 'transnational' turn of the Indian-Chinese Diaspora, and the evolving dimensions of 'Chinese' identity and belongingness in the city.
Through their research, the authors have gained new insights into the mixed identities and multiple heritages of the Chinese diaspora in Kolkata. They have witnessed how these influences shape global 'soft' diplomacy. The book also offers an ethno-spatial study of Kolkata's unique Chinatown landscapes, including the 'twin Chinatowns' of Cheenapara and Tangra, which the Chinese community has helped shape into a 'little China'.
The emotional attachment of the Chinese community to the city is evident through the narratives of the elderly, who share their childhood memories and experiences. Meanwhile, attempts are being made to preserve, restore, and promote Chinese cultural heritage through community associations, institutions, and culinary links.
Roy and Basu's 'Chinese Calcuttawallah' provides a comprehensive and intimate look at the Chinese community in Kolkata. It not only offers a unique perspective on their identity and heritage but also highlights their influence on global diplomacy and the city's cultural landscape. The authors plan to expand their research on global diasporas, further enriching our understanding of their impact in the hyper-globalist world.
