Kolkata witnessed a historic milestone with the grand centenary celebrations of the Greek Orthodox Church, located near Kalighat Park, marking 100 years since the establishment of this iconic sanctuary. The event was held in the presence of Mgr. Konstantinos, H.E. the Metropolitan of Singapore, Mrs. Aliki Koutsomitopoulou, H.E. the Ambassador of Greece in India, and Mr. Raju Bharat, Warden of the Greek Orthodox Church. The Greek Orthodox Church in Kolkata, the only one of its kind in India, stands as a historic landmark reflecting the rich heritage of the Greek community in India.
Built in 1924 to replace the older Greek Church of the Transfiguration in Amratolla Street, the church has been recognized as an Heritage Building by the Calcutta Municipal Corporation. It serves as a testament to the Greek presence in Kolkata, which began in 1690 and saw a significant mercantile community flourish, trading extensively with British India. Mgr. Konstantinos, H.E. the Metropolitan of Singapore, during his address, remarked, “The Greek Orthodox Church in Kolkata is not just a place of worship but a symbol of the enduring cultural exchange between Greece and India. It stands as a beacon of our shared history and our commitment to preserving the legacy of our forebears.”
Mrs. Aliki Koutsomitopoulou, H.E. the Ambassador of Greece in India, added, “The centenary celebrations of this historic church are a reflection of the deep ties between Greece and India. It is not only a place of spiritual solace for the community but also a significant cultural heritage site that tells the story of our shared past.” The celebrations featured a special ceremony where the church’s significance was highlighted through historical recounting and religious observances. The church, built on a high plinth and accessible by a flight of marble steps, remains a pristine example of Greek Orthodox architecture, with its classical façade, traditional iconostasis, and rich symbolism. The event was attended by devotees, local dignitaries, and representatives from the Greek community, underscoring the universal appeal of the church’s legacy.
Mr. Raju Bharat, the Warden of the Greek Orthodox Church, noted, “The centenary celebrations were not only about reflecting on our past but also about looking forward to the future, continuing the mission of the Greek Orthodox Church in Kolkata as a center of worship, heritage, and cultural exchange.” The centenary celebrations concluded with a sense of reverence and pride, as attendees reflected on the Church’s remarkable journey over the past century. The event served as a reminder of the enduring spirit of faith and cultural harmony that the Greek Orthodox Church embodies. As it steps into its next century, the Church remains committed to preserving its rich legacy while continuing to be a spiritual and cultural bridge between the Greek community and the
