Kolkata’s Horse-Drawn Carriages: Tradition vs. Animal Rights

History Indian History

Posted by NewAdmin on 2025-02-11 08:52:04 |

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Starting the Day Early

At the break of dawn, Rahul Das, a 17-year-old horse-drawn carriage driver, begins his daily routine in Kolkata. By 6:30 a.m., he sets out from the stables in Kidderpore and makes his way to Queens Way, where the line of carriages waits outside the majestic Victoria Memorial. With the vibrant sounds of Durga Puja dhaks echoing through the air, the streets come alive as Rahul prepares for another day of work, bringing the heritage of Kolkata to life for tourists.

Nurturing the Horses

Rahul takes pride in the care he provides his horses. He explains that their health and well-being are paramount for a successful day of work. Each horse is fed a balanced diet of chana (chickpeas), ghash (grass), and bhushi (husk), ensuring they have the energy needed for the long day ahead. Rahul ensures that the horses are fed four times a day—in the morning, twice during the afternoon, and at night—highlighting the bond of trust and responsibility he shares with them.

A Day of Work

By 9 a.m., the horses are well-prepared and ready to start the day. Rahul joins the long queue of carriages waiting for passengers at the Victoria Memorial. As tourists hop on for a ride through Kolkata's iconic streets, Rahul expertly guides the horses, offering visitors a glimpse of the city's rich history, colonial architecture, and vibrant culture. The day is filled with the sounds of hooves on the pavement and the chatter of excited tourists.

Returning Home

After a day of sightseeing, Rahul and his horses return to the stables by evening, completing their journey through the city's streets. As the sun sets, the horses are fed one last time before resting for the night. Rahul’s work, though challenging, provides him with a sense of pride, knowing that he’s helping preserve a centuries-old tradition of Kolkata's horse-drawn carriages, even as the future of this heritage remains uncertain amidst calls for reform.

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