King George V & Queen Mary Arrive In Calcutta, 3 Photos 1912
Three rare 1912 photographs capture the historic anticipation of King George V and Queen Mary’s arrival in Calcutta (now Kolkata) during their grand tour of India. The first image highlights the majestic Calcutta Government House, where the royal couple was to reside.
Visible in the frame are Indian guards standing in formation, along with the silhouette of the Chinese Winged Cannon near the steps, symbolizing the city’s colonial past. The second photograph depicts the heightened anticipation among Indian policemen and guards. Though the exact location is uncertain, possibly Prinsep Ghat or the Calcutta Railway Station, the scene is decorated with elaborate welcome arches and British Union Jack flags, setting the stage for the royal reception.
The third image shows bustling crowds lining both sides of the road, eagerly waiting to catch a glimpse of King George V and Queen Mary. Tram tracks and overhead pantographs reveal Calcutta’s early transport system, while British mounted policemen and long rows of Indian guards maintain order. Although the royal visit’s highlight was the grand Delhi Durbar of December 1911, the tour also included stops across the subcontinent, with Calcutta playing a prominent role in welcoming the King-Emperor and Queen.
Also see King George & Queen Mary Procession Calcutta, 1912.
Did you know – the Government House in Calcutta became the Raj Bhavan after India gained independence in 1947.
From the collection – Raja Ravi Varma’s Portrait Photo – Old Postcard 1904., River Cooum From Fort St George Madras, 2 P.Cards., Arrival Of The Emperor At Bombay, Old Print 1912., British India Hindostan – Antique Map 1863.
