Lataguri’s cultural attractions: A glimpse into the local traditions

The Vibrant Gambhira

A globetrotter can experience a piece of the vibrant culture that forms an integral part of Lataguri due to the existence of a diversified range of tribal communities that comprises Lepcha, Toto, Rava, Raj Bangshi, Limboo, and a few Nepali communities. The primary cultural attraction of the region is the dance form known by the name of Gambhira, which has been quite popular throughout the Malda district of North Bengal. Two performers are involved in this unusually rhythmic dance form with one personifying a man and the other personifying the man’s maternal grandfather to create an exposition of a topic in an effort to spread social consciousness. This particular dance form utilizes masks that are prepared from leaves of neem and fig and are crafted by skilled artisans of the Sutradhar community. When the Chaitra Sankranti’s celebrations are in full swing, the Gambhira singers also visit homes besides performing on the streets displaying a magnificent spectacle for the tourists. The performers solicit alms in the form of rice, wheat, or simple cash through which they can fund their annual activities.

Exquisite Craftwork

The next exotic cultural experience a traveler can achieve from a visit to Lataguri is to witness the strong artistic tradition of West Bengal. There are enough opportunities to explore a wide array of traditional handicrafts, especially terracotta crafts and wooden sculptures that can be gifted to dear ones and can also make attractive souvenirs. The region is also well-renowned for hand-woven textiles like the Kantha sarees which stand as a testament to the exceptional talent and weaving skills of the local weavers.

Enchanting Art Galleries

The few cultural centers and art galleries that are found in Lataguri showcase a diverse collection of paintings, ancient sculptures, and archaeological objects that offers a beguiling glimpse of the region’s rich cultural and artistic heritage. Though Lataguri might not be infested with a multitude of art galleries in the near vicinity, there are a few notable art museums or galleries whereby the tourist can have an enriched cultural expedition. The Jalpaiguri Art Gallery which is just 30 kilometres away from the region displays both contemporary and traditional art pieces. The gallery frequently organizes shows that present local artwork, sculptures, traditional artifacts, and installations that render a unique experience for the visitors.

The Gastronomic Relishes

The visitor can also get enough scope for indulging in West Bengal’s special gastronomic delights that would be a distinctive cultural experience for him. The region’s exclusive specialties such as fish curry, sweetened yogurt made from caramelized sugar, and special Hilsha cuisine that is steamed with mustard sauce would offer an exotic culinary experience for the traveler. Furthermore, Lataguri is circumscribed with verdant green tea gardens and there are numerous homestay options nearby the tea estates that offer a warm and cozy stay for travelers. A visitor can savor a cup of freshly brewed tea while taking a guided tour of one of the reputed estates known by the name of Gorumara Tea Estate.