Baby Chakraborty, KalimNews, February 20, 2025, Kolkata : Kakdwip, a bustling town situated on the banks of the Muriganga river in the South 24 Parganas district of West Bengal, holds both historical and mythological significance. The town, known for its picturesque views and tranquil riverside charm, also boasts a rich cultural and historical heritage, making it an important landmark of the region.
According to an ancient mythological story, Kakdwip is named after the legendary Bhagirath, who is said to have passed through this area while guiding the holy Ganges to the sea. Legend has it that Bhagirath woke up one morning to the call of a crow and realized that he was very close to the sea. This moment, entwined with divine lore, marked the convergence of the Ganges and the sea, giving rise to the name Gangasagar. Following this, the river was named Bhagirathi in his honor.
Today, Kakdwip is a lively town, known for its diverse population, which is predominantly from the Medinipur caste. The local dialect, Kanthi Bangla, is widely spoken alongside Kolkata Bengali. The city is well-connected to Kolkata, Diamond Harbour, Namkhana, and Frasergunj through National Highway 117, with buses linking these key routes.
The region’s agricultural history is steeped in the struggles of the Tebhaga movement in the 1940s, when peasants protested against the oppressive sharecropping system. Under this system, landlords owned the land, while sharecroppers were forced to give away half of their produce. The suffering of the peasants, exacerbated by the 1942 cyclone and famine, led to the formation of the Kisan Samiti, which mobilized the farmers and called for the Tebhaga movement in 1946. The movement demanded that two-thirds of the crop be given to the farmers, significantly improving the situation for sharecroppers after years of exploitation. This struggle led to the eventual abolition of zamindari and the protection of farmers’ rights.
Kakdwip’s significance extends beyond its agricultural history. The city is also a vital transportation hub, with Kakdwip Railway Station serving as the main railway station. It is connected to the Sealdah-Namkhana line, allowing easy access to Kolkata. Waterways, too, play a crucial role in the transport system, with passenger and cargo ferries operating from the city’s LTC Ghat to Sagardwip.
The city’s economy is largely dependent on fishing. Kakdwip has a large fish market, and its fishing port, the Kakdwip Fisheries Port, is one of the most important fishing ports in India. With over 200 trawlers operating daily from the port, the fishing industry thrives here. Additionally, the presence of an ice mill supports this industry, ensuring the preservation of fish for market distribution.
Kakdwip has also gained prominence in tourism, thanks to its proximity to the Gangasagar pilgrimage site, a significant Hindu destination. Tourists flock to this region to bathe in the holy confluence of the Ganges and the sea. The beauty of the serene Ganges flowing into the sea, combined with the gentle waves of the ocean, attracts visitors each year. However, the growing number of tourists has resulted in a major environmental concern, as the shores of the Ganges are often littered with discarded clothes and garbage, especially after pilgrimages.
Despite these challenges, Kakdwip continues to be a vital part of West Bengal’s economy, blending rich cultural heritage with modern industries and tourism. Its mythological origins, historical significance, and economic activities contribute to the town’s unique identity.
