Recently, while on a visit to Kolkata, this columnist ended up scouring the city. In the process of the extensive travel across the large metro, I spotted endless views where brick red facade buildings were in full view, in all its corners. It made me arrive at the conclusion that it might perhaps be the representative colour of the city’s streets-cape. While some of these were landmarks, standing tall, and in great condition, others were crumbling edifices, crying out to be rescued from further neglect. They were hard to miss, irrespective of their condition. Later, on further exploration, I noticed that canary and ochre yellow painted facades could possibly come second.

There were also sharp references of emerald and pickle green splashed across many buildings. And yes, several key official buildings were washed in white, elevating the street-scape with its colonial grandeur. All in all, it made for a colourful, viewing showcase.