The Chinese community in Kolkata is all set to celebrate the Chinese New Year. People of the Chinese community living in Kolkata are gearing up to usher in their New Year which begins on January 22.
Chinese New Year marks the beginning of spring and the start of a new year, according to the Chinese lunar calendar.
This will be the year of the water rabbit. Each Chinese New Year in the lunar calendar is represented by one of the 12 animals in the Chinese zodiac chart — rat, tiger, ox, rabbit, dragon, horse, snake, sheep, rooster, monkey, dog and pig.
Celebrations have already started in several parts of the city.
A special event titled Know Your Cheenapara was organised at Tiretta Bazaar, the old China Town, on January 15 where several history and heritage enthusiasts were present across communities in Kolkata.
A special event was organised by the Chinese consulate in Kolkata with a heritage walk, a lion dance show and a lavish dinner spread.
“The Chinese population in Kolkata has been dwindling over the years with the younger generation moving abroad in search of greener pastures. It’s time we highlight our existence in this large multicultural city,” said a member of the Chinese Community in Tangra.
The Chinese New Year celebrations will culminate in a five-day extravaganza starting January 21.
A midnight walk and lion dance will be held at Tangra on the night of January 21. On January 22, New Year celebrations will be held at the Bow Barracks. On January 23, Tangra will host another celebration with Chai Chiang and the lion dance troupe. On January 24 and 25, the Chinese New Year Carnival will be held at Tangra.
“Along with several food stalls serving authentic Chinese dishes, there will be several games and showpieces associated with the local Chinese community,” said a community member.