Recent archaeological findings near Clive House in Dum Dum have dramatically reshaped our understanding of Kolkata’s origins. Excavations conducted by the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI), first between 2001 and 2003 and later in 2022, have uncovered evidence of a thriving civilisation that existed over 3,000 years ago—long before the arrival of the Nawabs or the British.
Among the discoveries are terracotta pottery, tortoise shells, and the bones of animals, birds, and fish. Carbon dating has confirmed the antiquity of these artefacts, placing them in a timeline soon after the decline of the Harappan civilisation.
Connecting West Bengal to ancient trade networks
The unearthed relics indicate that this region was not just inhabited—it was a hub of trade and cultural exchange. A warehouse structure and various trade-related artefacts suggest that ancient Kolkata had direct links with Chandraketugarh, a prominent archaeological site north of the city. These connections were likely established through water routes, reinforcing the strategic importance of the Ganges in facilitating trade.
The similarities between artefacts found at Clive House and those discovered at Chandraketugarh—including a model of two elephants locked in combat—further point to a shared cultural and commercial connection.
A window into a forgotten era
According to Shuvo Majumdar, ASI’s Baroda regional director, these findings suggest that Kolkata’s history stretches far beyond its colonial identity. Presented during a program titled “Clive House – Silent Witness of History” at Sarojini Naidu College, Majumdar shared detailed evidence that supports the theory of an ancient, pre-colonial civilisation thriving in the area. He was joined by historian Shyamal Ghosh and researchers Moumita Saha and Alok Guha, who unanimously agreed: this discovery is not just about Kolkata—it’s about rewriting the historical narrative of Bengal itself.
Breaking the colonial myth
The prevailing belief that Kolkata was founded during the Nawabi or British periods is now being seriously challenged. These archaeological revelations point to a rich Hindu history in the region, with deep cultural and trade ties to ancient civilisations like the Harappan and the one at Chandraketugarh. The area was once part of the Gangaridhi Civilisation, referenced in ancient texts and long considered lost to time.
This new understanding positions Kolkata not merely as a colonial-era city but as a site of continuous human activity, innovation, and cultural exchange spanning millennia.
A city of ancient legacy
For many, Kolkata has been seen primarily as the “City of Joy,” defined by its British past and Nawabi influences. But the discovery at Clive House reveals a much older story—of a city that has served as a vibrant trade centre and cultural melting pot for thousands of years. The findings paint a picture of an ancient civilisation that contributed significantly to the heritage of Bengal and the Indian subcontinent.
The excavation at Clive House opens a new chapter in the historical narrative of Kolkata. The evidence of ancient settlements, trade links with Chandraketugarh, and early urban planning all point to a rich and complex past. As researchers continue to delve into these findings, it’s clear that Kolkata’s legacy goes far beyond its colonial roots. It is, in fact, the living memory of an ancient civilisation—one that deserves recognition in the broader story of India’s history.
