Ob-La-Di, Ob-La-Da, it’s Anglo Indian Day at Bow Barracks, brah!
The historic neighbourhood came alive with Anglo Indian meals, festive beats and hockey sticks!
By
Nitin Waghela |
Published 24.08.23, 03:30 PM
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In celebration of the spirit of togetherness that defines World Anglo Indian Day, commemorated on August 2, the Bow Barracks Residents Welfare Association (BBRWA) organised a food festival on August 20. Locals helped themselves to favourites like Kofta Curry and Fish Balls while joining the Anglo Indian community in song and dance
All photos by Soumyajit Dey
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Claire Jefferson, who has grown up in the close-knit environment of Bow Barracks, was seen serving visitors Kofta Curry, Yellow Rice and Pork Vindaloo. “Clubs in different neighbourhoods of Kolkata typically celebrate World Anglo-Indian Day on a Sunday so that everyone can rejoice together,” said Jefferson
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As children took up hockey sticks to score a goal, the rest immersed themselves in the festivities. (Right) Aaron Nawab Salmani, a young Christian, said, “The best part about this festival is the food. I also look forward to having fun by engaging in games with my friends”
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Popular local singers (from left) Shayne Hyrapiet and Christopher Lobo set the stage alive with English retro hits like ‘Ob-La-Di, Ob-La-Da’, and ‘Blue Suede Shoes’. Speaking about the Anglo Indian community in Kolkata, Lobo said, “The community is diminishing as many choose to settle abroad. Anglo Indians are a hard-working and good-hearted bunch. For instance, if someone comes to Bow Barracks, they are welcome at everyone’s home”
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Dionne, who could be seen preparing Khatta Pou, also known as sweet and sour trotters, and Fish Balls, as part of the food fest, said, “Anglo Indians are a small community and we treat each other like family at Bow Barracks. Today, we’ve come together to sing, dance and create life-long memories”
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Bow Barracks resident Marina Nathaniel has known only one way of living “which is the Bow Barracks way”. While her elder son resides in Delhi, the Barracks are still home to her parents and in-laws, showing how despite physical distances, the community binds families together
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“I remember coming to Bow Barracks since sixth grade to play soccer,” shared Alan Jude. The spirit of the game and everyone cheering for each other often outshone the match itself, he recalled. “We Anglo Indians believe in living in the moment and not fussing about the future,” added Jude, a testament to their carefree approach to life
