Make Calcutta Relevant Again

Join Meghdut on the MCRA Podcast as he sits down with Sayantan Maitra Boka (MassArt) and Ushmita Sahu (Emami Art) to unpack why Durga Puja is not just a festival—but the world’s biggest public art movement.
From Kolkata’s para pujos to international gallery spaces, this episode dives into:
– The art economy behind Durga Puja
– Breaking elitism in the gallery world
– The role of patronage in reviving Kolkata’s cultural capital
– And why Calcutta must reclaim its space in national and global conversations
Whether you’re into public art, cultural strategy, or just a pujo lover with big city dreams—this is for you.
Guests:
Sayantan Maitra Boka - Curator, MassArt
Ushmita Sahu – Director, Emami Art
A special Durga Puja edition of #MakeCalcuttaRelevantAgain

Join Meghdut on the MCRA Podcast for a fun, unfiltered journey from the bylanes of Lake Market to global campaigns with illustrator and visual storyteller Srishti Guptaroy, better known online as @srillustrator. In this episode, Srishti opens up about her unconventional path—growing up in 90s Kolkata, building her creative voice, and eventually landing collaborations with brands like Hermès and Adobe. She shares the highs, the awkward family wedding moments (yes, people recognize her as the “Adobe Girl”), and the very real struggle of staying authentic in the social media age. But this conversation goes beyond career talk. From Kolkata’s fading design identity to why Durga Pujo is the world’s greatest public art festival, Srishti brings a unique mix of humour, perspective, and pride in her roots. She also reflects on why she still introduces herself as “from Kolkata” no matter where she goes—and what it would mean to really make the city relevant again, not just in memory, but in creative capital. Whether you're an aspiring designer, a 90s kid with Calcutta nostalgia, or just someone looking for a wildly entertaining conversation about art, identity, and bangle rotation logic—this episode is not to be missed.

Join Meghdut on the MCRA Podcast for an inspiring, behind-the-scenes journey from Kolkata to Hollywood with Pradipto, lead character effects artist at DreamWorks Animation.
In this episode, Pradipto shares his unconventional path from doodling comics in Kolkata to animating blockbuster films in Los Angeles. With honesty and humour, he opens up about breaking away from societal expectations, navigating the 2007 recession as a young artist, and finding his niche in the highly specialized world of hair, fur, and cloth simulation at DreamWorks.
More than just a success story, this conversation sheds light on the staggering scale of animation production—where micro-movements can cost millions—and the often-overlooked artistry behind every frame. Pradipto also reflects on a near-death experience that radically shifted his perspective, igniting a desire to give back and nurture the next wave of creative talent in Kolkata.
Whether you’re an aspiring animator, a dreamer, or someone rethinking their creative path, this episode is packed with insights, resilience, and real talk from someone who’s walked the long road—from Kolkata to Hollywood.
Watch the full episode to discover why no passion is too niche—and how Kolkata can once again become a global creative powerhouse.

Join Meghdut on the MCRA Podcast as he walks through the layered streets of Kolkata—this time through the eyes of Chelsea McGill, founder of Immersive Trails, a storytelling-driven heritage tour company redefining how we experience the city. In this episode, Chelsea shares the journey of building Kolkata’s most thoughtfully curated walking tours—tours that go beyond guidebooks and tourist checklists, diving deep into forgotten histories, lived memories, and the city’s architectural soul. With a background in research and a deep love for oral narratives, Chelsea explains why human connection trumps audio guides, and how ethical tourism must be rooted in truth, empathy, and respect for local communities. The conversation takes a critical turn as they explore how outdated heritage laws are ironically causing Kolkata’s architectural treasures to vanish, and why “preservation” needs to make room for “adaptive reuse.” They also reflect on the global potential of Durga Puja as a cultural landmark—and why AI, with all its data, still can’t replace the intimacy of a walk through lived history. Watch the full episode to discover Kolkata’s stories beneath the surface—and how walking through its lanes might just be the most powerful way to keep its spirit alive.

Join Meghdut on the MCRA Podcast for a powerful conversation with Bengali music icons Rupam Islam and Sidhu, as they open up about life, loss, and the healing power of art.
Recorded live at Techno India, this episode begins with a sobering reflection on a young student’s suicide, leading into a deeply personal dialogue on mental health, self-worth, and resilience. Rupam shares his own struggles with suicidal thoughts, while Sidhu draws a striking metaphor between an on-stage air pocket and the unpredictability of the human mind.
The discussion evolves into the impact of tech on music—from the “TikTokification” of creativity to the rise of AI—raising urgent questions about authenticity, relevance, and staying true to one’s art. Through it all, Rupam and Sidhu emphasize the strength of community, collaboration, and purpose—especially in times of crisis.
Watch the full episode for raw truths, rare wisdom, and the reminder that when artists unite, “we never lose—we cannot lose.

Join Meghdut on the MCRA Podcast as he sits down with a proud fourth-generation jeweller and cultural storyteller from Kolkata to uncover the legacy of craftsmanship, community, and conviction that continues to shine—quite literally—from Bengal to the world.
In this soulful episode, journey through the origins of Sarbojanin Durga Puja, freedom fighters like Atindranath Basu, and Kolkata’s legacy of art, entrepreneurship, and family-run jewelry ateliers.
From gemstone lore to lab-grown myths, it’s a deep dive into heritage—lived, preserved, and proudly passed on. More than sparkle, it’s about the soul behind the shine.
**Watch now to rediscover Kolkata’s timeless legacy and the value of building forward.**

Join Meghdut on the MCRA Podcast for a deeply moving and inspiring conversation with tennis legend and changemaker Leander Paes, as they explore legacy, identity, and the powerful roots of Kolkata.
In this powerful episode, Leander shares his remarkable journey—from being born during the 1972 Munich Olympics to growing up in Kolkata’s cultural heart and rising to global tennis fame. It’s a story of grit, legacy, and coming home.
They explore Kolkata’s spirit, the power of purpose, and how identity, sport, and heritage intertwine. From family medals to forgotten histories, this episode is both a tribute to the city and a lesson in resilience.
**Watch now for a moving tale of roots, dreams, and quiet revolutions.**

Join Meghdut on the MCRA Podcast as he shares a deliciously candid conversation with a passionate home cook and supper club host who's putting Bengali food on the global map—one plate at a time.
In this flavour-packed episode, discover how a London flat transforms into a Bengali Supper Club, where every dish tells a story. From Pulao and Kosha Mangsho to reimagining tradition, it’s a journey through identity, culture, and cuisine.
Expect rich conversations on Kolkata’s culinary legacy, the magic of posto, and dreams of a Parisian-style shondesh shop. If you love food, culture, or storytelling—this episode will leave you hungry for more.
**Watch now to taste the future of Bengali food.**

Join Meghdut on the MCRA Podcast as he sits down with Nivedita Poddar from Art Fervour to explore the fascinating world of art and the vibrant art scene in Calcutta. This insightful conversation delves into the importance of art in society, the challenges and opportunities facing artists today, and the unique character of Calcutta's creative landscape. Nivedita shares her expertise and passion for art, offering valuable perspectives on the evolving dynamics of the art world. Whether you're an art enthusiast, a budding artist, or simply curious about the power of creativity, this episode is sure to inspire and enlighten. Watch the full episode to discover the stories behind the canvas and gain a deeper appreciation for the role of art in our lives.

Join us on the Make Calcutta Relevant Again podcast for an inspiring journey through the heart of Kolkata's thriving music scene. Meet Raghu, the lockdown rapper who honed his skills in his bathroom, and Teej, the former Wall Street banker turned DJ and producer. Discover how their collective, Homebound, is more than just a series of parties; it's a movement to introduce Kolkata to new sounds, support emerging artists, and foster a community of music lovers.

Later in the episode, we're joined by SukuMama or Sukrit Sen, an architect, cultural conservationist, and a driving force behind Homebound Kolkata. Learn how music can be a catalyst for change, bridging the gap between creativity and climate action.

This episode is packed with insights into Kolkata's music culture, the power of following your passions, and the potential of music to create a better world. Whether you're a seasoned music enthusiast or simply curious about Kolkata's creative scene, this conversation is sure to inspire.

Hit play and discover the magic of Homebound!