Calcutta of the Alleys

This quintessential K. G. Subramanyan work pays homage to the most relatable trope of Calcutta (Kolkata)—goddess Kali, an inspiration that is impossible to escape in the eastern metropolis. Subramanyan studied at Kala Bhavana, Santiniketan, in the 1940s and remained a regular visitor to Bengal throughout his life. In this work, he places Kali in the streets of the city in quotidienne surroundings—even as she goes about slaying demons with her sickle, people in the background lounge and chat just like any other day. Despite an unusual colour scheme for a work related to goddess Kali, the figure stands out with all her chief markers.