Abanindranath Tagore's Garden House - Tagore ancestral home

The Garden House of Abanindranath Tagore, popularly referred to as “Kuthi Bari,” is an important piece of West Bengal cultural legacy. The Tagore family’s ancestral home, Kolkata’s Jorasanko Thakur Bari complex, is where it is situated. Famous Indian painter and author Abanindranath Tagore is most recognized for establishing the Bengal School of Art, which played a crucial role in advancing Indian creative traditions in reaction to Western influences. Because Abanindranath Tagore produced some of his most famous works and fostered the Indian artistic resurgence there, the Garden House is significant historically. Inspired by nature, Tagore’s aesthetic vision is reflected in the serene environment and the surrounding garden. The fusion of history, culture, and art that embodies the Tagore family’s legacy is open for exploration by guests.

Attraction

Representing the essence of the Bengal Renaissance, Abanindranath Tagore’s garden house is a site of immense cultural and historical significance. His artistic legacy is closely associated with the house, which features numerous original works by him and embodies the distinct style of the Bengal School of Art. A calm and creative mood is created by the house’s architectural appeal, which includes a traditional Bengali style and a peaceful garden. It is extremely emotive and serves as a reminder of the Tagore family’s contributions to Indian art, culture, and intellectual thought because it is a part of their heritage. The home is a major cultural landmark because of the rich vegetation that surrounds it, which intensifies its atmosphere of peace and reflection.

History

Throughout his early years, Abanindranath Tagore lived in this residence a lot. Additionally, he wrote the book Jorasanko Dhare, which offers a glimpse of this. He says that dogs, horses, monkeys, deer, and other animals are all around the house, and he would go boating and swimming with many servants. He saw the evening prayers at the temples and had the wonderful opportunity to witness rural life out here. Sometimes, his father would practice shooting a gun next to him, or he would be enthralled with the local performers. The Tagore family passed this structure on to several other owners over the years until a contractor eager to construct a multistory riverfront property eventually acquired it. Fortunately, despite opposition from a few townspeople and citizen groups, a deal was struck that allowed the new owner to develop the remaining undeveloped land while keeping the home and a section of the site intact. The property was restored by the Konnagar Municipality after it was designated as a heritage site by the West Bengal Heritage Commission on May 28, 2007, and this is what we can currently view.

Inside/Outside Views

Rich creative and cultural legacy can be seen throughout Abanindranath Tagore’s garden residence. His own paintings capture the unique style of the Bengal School of Art and are among the artworks that adorn the rooms. With its lofty ceilings, wooden floors, and roomy hallways, the interiors recreate the lifestyle of the colonial era while fusing traditional Bengali aesthetics with contemporary inspirations. The house’s historical ambiance is further enhanced by antique furnishings, traditional décor, and family relics. Lush grounds surround the house outside, adding to the peaceful ambiance. Wide verandas, big windows, and an open courtyard that lets in plenty of natural light are aspects of the outside that are typical of Bengali architecture. The beautiful facade of the house, surrounded by greenery, creates a calm and artistic atmosphere that resonates with the legacy of Abanindranath Tagore. The expansive garden, with its green lawns, flowering plants, and trees, offers a peaceful retreat, reflecting the creative and contemplative nature of its former residents.

Opening Hours

Monday 10 AM–5 PM

Tuesday 10 AM–5 PM

Wednesday 10 AM–5 PM

(Gandhi Jayanti)

Hours might differ

Thursday 10 AM–5 PM

Friday 10 AM–5 PM

Saturday 10 AM–5 PM

Sunday 10 AM–5 PM

How to Reach

By Air: Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport is the closest airport, some 15-20 kilometers distant. To get to the property from the airport, you can use app-based taxi services or rent a taxi.

By Train: About 4-5 kilometers away from Jorasanko lies Howrah Junction, the closest major train station. From the station, you can go to the location using local public transportation, app-based taxis, or taxis.

By Bus: Kolkata’s bus services provide excellent connections to Jorasanko. Numerous buses travel through the neighbourhood, stopping near MG Road and Rabindra Sarani, both of which are a short stroll from the property.

FAQ

Que-01: Is this place safe to visit?

Ans: Yes, this place is safe.

Que-02: Is photography allowed here?

Ans: Yes, photography is allowed, but It’s advisable to check the rules.

Que-03: What is the significance of Abanindranath Tagore’s garden house?

Ans: Abanindranath Tagore’s garden house is significant for being the residence of the pioneer of the Bengal School of Art. It is also part of the larger Tagore family estate, representing the cultural and intellectual contributions of the Tagores to Indian art and literature.

Que-04: How long does it take to tour the house?

Ans: A visit typically takes 1 to 2 hours, depending on your interest in the exhibits and artworks.

Que-05: Are there any facilities like a cafeteria or souvenir shop?

Ans: The museum may have a small souvenir shop where visitors can purchase memorabilia related to the Tagore family and their works. Cafeteria or refreshment facilities might not be available, so plan accordingly.