Why is Kolkata called the City of Joy?

Few Indian cities have a nickname as famous—or as debated—as Kolkata's title of the "City of Joy." At first glance, the name can seem surprising. Kolkata has long grappled with overcrowding, political upheaval and infrastructure challenges. Yet it is precisely the city's resilience, culture and sense of community that gave rise to the nickname.

Today, "City of Joy" is used around the world to describe the capital of West Bengal, but the story behind the title is more complex than many people realise.

The origin of the nickname

The phrase became internationally known through the 1985 book City of Joy by Dominique Lapierre, which was later adapted into the 1992 film City of Joy starring Patrick Swayze.

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The book focused on life in one of Kolkata's poorest neighbourhoods and highlighted the strength, optimism and solidarity displayed by residents despite difficult living conditions. Rather than referring to wealth or comfort, the title celebrated the human spirit and sense of community found in the city.

Over time, the phrase became inseparable from Kolkata itself.

A city built on culture

Kolkata's claim to the title also comes from its rich cultural life.

Often regarded as India's cultural capital, the city has been home to some of the country's most influential writers, artists, filmmakers and intellectuals. Figures such as Rabindranath Tagore, Satyajit Ray and Bankim Chandra Chattopadhyay helped shape modern Indian literature, cinema and art.

From book fairs and theatre productions to coffee-house debates and literary festivals, Kolkata has long embraced intellectual and cultural expression.

Festivals, food and community

Another reason the nickname has endured is the city's vibrant social life.

Kolkata is known for its elaborate celebrations of Durga Puja, a festival so significant that UNESCO added it to its Intangible Cultural Heritage list in 2021. During the festivities, neighbourhoods come together to create elaborate pandals, organise cultural events and welcome visitors from across the world.

The city is also celebrated for its street food, sweets, historic tram system and lively public spaces, all of which contribute to a strong sense of local identity.

Why Kolkata is called the City of Joy

The title "City of Joy" is not a claim that life in Kolkata is always easy or carefree. Instead, it reflects something many residents and visitors have long observed: the city's ability to find warmth, creativity and community amid challenges.

Whether through its literature, festivals, food or everyday human connections, Kolkata has cultivated a reputation for celebrating life with remarkable enthusiasm. It is this spirit—rather than material prosperity—that earned Kolkata its enduring title as the City of Joy.