As the sun dipped below the horizon, casting a golden hue across the city skyline, the Hooghly River shimmered in soft, rippling gold. We gathered at the banks, a sense of quiet anticipation in the air, ready to embark on a magical twilight journey aboard the Vivada Cruise. What followed was nothing short of a dream—a carefully curated evening that blended music, memories, and the mesmerizing charm of Kolkata’s riverfront.
Organised by the ever-creative team at Kawtha Koi, the cruise was more than just a boat ride. It was an experience—a symphony of lights and sounds that paid tribute to the river’s timeless beauty and the cultural soul of the city. The cruise began gently, the vessel gliding smoothly over the water as twilight slowly transitioned into a starlit evening.
A highlight of the journey was a 45-minute halt at the serene and spiritually uplifting Belur Math. Bathed in soft lighting and evening chants, the temple complex radiated a deep sense of peace. Guests disembarked for a quiet walk along the gardens, some choosing to meditate by the river, others simply taking in the grandeur of the architecture and the calming ambience. It was a soulful pause—one that gave the evening a sacred, grounding moment before the festivities continued.
Back on board, live music floated through the open deck—soft jazz, soulful Bengali melodies, and a touch of retro classics. The soundscape perfectly matched the scenic beauty that surrounded us: the glowing Howrah Bridge, the silhouettes of old colonial buildings, and boats lit with tiny lanterns drifting alongside us. Laughter, storytelling, and spontaneous singing added to the atmosphere, making it feel less like an event and more like an intimate gathering of old friends.
The decks were tastefully lit, and every corner had something to offer—from cosy seating arrangements to art installations that reflected Kolkata’s riverine history. Thoughtfully curated refreshments and drinks made their way around, offering comfort as we lost ourselves in the river’s rhythm.
As night deepened, the lights of the city twinkled in the distance, and the river seemed to wrap us in a cocoon of nostalgia and wonder. There was a shared silence, a collective pause, as we stood still—grateful, amazed, and deeply moved.
This wasn’t just a cruise. It was an ode—to Kolkata, to the Hooghly, and to the countless stories that flow through the city’s veins.
Until next time, Hooghly. You were magic.
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