Exploring Rajwati Seth’s experiences in the vibrant city of Calcutta during the early 20th century.
Rajwati Seth, affectionately known as Rajjo, relocated to Calcutta with her son Raghu after her husband Shivraj’s transfer from Gurumahisani. Calcutta, during this period, was a bustling metropolis and the former seat of British governance in India, often referred to as the crown of the British Empire. Rajjo found great joy in the city, particularly in its renowned sweets, which were comparable to the delicacies of Vienna in Europe. The rich cultural tapestry of Bengal, encompassing music, poetry, literature, and cuisine, captivated both Rajjo and Shivraj. As Shivraj began to immerse himself in this vibrant culture, he introduced Rajjo to its many facets, including learning Bengali songs that he would sing to her. Although Rajjo was reluctant to sing, she embraced the spirit of adventure by deciding to learn how to drive a car.
The couple settled in an airy house on Lansdown Road, situated conveniently next to a park. Shivraj recounted his house-hunting experience years later, recalling a humorous exchange with the landlord, who misunderstood Shivraj’s concerns about space, believing that he wanted the house for his furniture rather than for himself. This move to Calcutta marked a significant chapter in their lives, filled with the excitement of a new city and the opportunities it presented.
During his tenure with Tata Steel, Shivraj was involved in prospecting for iron ore in Bihar, leading to the discovery of substantial reserves that would later become known as Jamshedpur, named after Jamshedji Tata, the founder of the company. As Jamshedpur emerged as an industrial hub, Shivraj’s ambitions began to evolve. He felt a growing desire to transition from his role as a prospector to a position where he could exercise greater autonomy and influence. The repetitive nature of his work left him restless, prompting him to seek a more fulfilling and challenging career path.
Rajjo, attuned to Shivraj’s discontent, recognized his longing for change. She recalled her father-in-law’s words about Shivraj’s aspirations, suggesting that he wished to ‘fly’ beyond his current limitations. Their family dynamic shifted further with the birth of their second son, Ravi, in Calcutta. This milestone reinforced Shivraj’s decision to resign from Tata Steel, seeking to embark on a new journey that would grant him the freedom to create opportunities. In 1922, the family of four made the decision to move back to Lahore, marking the end of their Calcutta chapter and the beginning of another phase in their lives.
