Contemporary Drawing Biennials Draw Global Crowds
January 14, 2026
As December reaches its final days, Kolkata and large parts of West Bengal are enveloped in an unusually deep winter chill. The mercury has dropped considerably in recent days, bringing the coldest temperatures of the season so far. Early mornings have become notably frigid, prompting residents to layer up in sweaters, shawls, and warm scarves as they step out into the brisk air.
Kolkata, known for its relatively mild winters compared to the northern plains, has recorded temperatures significantly lower than what many locals are accustomed to. Daytime highs struggle to rise, leaving the city cloaked in a cool, persistent chill throughout the day. The sudden drop in temperature has taken many by surprise, especially younger residents who are more familiar with comfortable “winter lite” conditions than true cold weather.
Beyond the metropolitan area, the winter slumber deepens even further. In the western and northern districts of the state, low temperatures have become the norm. Small towns and rural areas are waking up to frosty mornings as the cool winds sweep across the plains. Even coastal pockets, usually tempered by sea breezes, are feeling the cold snap. The overall chilliness is attributed to clear skies at night — which allow heat to escape rapidly — and persistent dry winds that draw in colder air from inland regions.
On city streets, the atmosphere is noticeably different. Early commuters huddle over hot tea stalls, seeking warmth with every steaming cup. Street vendors wrap blankets around themselves to endure the morning cold, while schoolchildren clutch thermos flasks of hot drinks as they wait for their buses. Conversations among passersby often turn to weather — a reliable topic when everyone feels the chill on their skin.
For many elderly residents and young children, the cold is more than just uncomfortable — it is a health concern. Coughs, colds, and morning sniffles have become increasingly common. Healthcare workers remind families to keep homes warm, dress appropriately, and watch for warning signs of cold-related illnesses. Community clinics report a gentle rise in patients seeking relief from the bite of winter, though nothing extreme so far.
Despite the discomfort, there is a quiet beauty to these winter days. The clear, crisp air brings a freshness that is almost invigorating. The sky gleams brightly during late mornings, and the early sunsets lend a cozy charm to the evenings. As the cold weather persists, West Bengal finds itself wholly embraced by the season’s unique serenity — a time for warm drinks, warmer conversations, and the unmistakable feel of winter all around.
