8 Best Performing Arts Venues in Kolkata (Calcutta), India

Theatrical and musical events are often staged here.

This center of art and creative discourse was established in 1933 by Lady Ranu Mookerji, a close associate of Tagore who was known for her beauty and her patronage of the arts. In addition to the permanent collection of paintings and Tagore manuscripts, the Academy hosts live acts and theater festivals throughout the year. It's a popular meeting ground for the city's intellectuals, especially in winter.

The nondescript venue has some art on display, but the main draw is the auditorium, where some very talented musicians and dancers perform. Winters are especially favored for classical concerts.

English-language plays are regularly staged by the British Council. The library is also well stocked.

This buzzy venue is where you will find works of award-winning contemporary artists from around the world. Bani Abidi, Nadia Kaabi-Linke, and Ayesha Sultana have all shown here. Experimental films and video art are also shown from time to time.

Works by modern Indian artists are on view here.

Popular with intellectuals and artsy young people, Nandan, the state-run theater in the Rabindra Sadan complex, shows art-house and independent films. You can expect a crowd full of artists, musicians, and couples both young and old.

This is a popular venue for music, dance, and theater that hosts the Kolkata Film Festival.