Kolkata looks very different and beautiful in monsoon: Madhuboni

The City of Joy looks magical during the monsoons. And danseuse Madhuboni Chatterjee told us she loves the smell of wet soil and likes listening to old romantic songs, sipping on Darjeeling first flush tea. The danseuse, who did an exclusive shoot for CT, told us a lot more. Read on…
For you, what’s the best thing about monsoons in Kolkata?
The city looks very different and beautiful in the rainy season. I often go out for a drive to enjoy the rain-soaked city. The city becomes soft and tender as rain washes away its dust and dirt. As I pass by Victoria Memorial, it seems to glow like a white pearl in the backdrop of a dark monsoon sky. The fresh green leaves, the wet pavements, and afternoons filled with old romantic songs on radio are truly magical.
Why is monsoon your favourite season?
Because of its endless beauty.... The different shades of blues, greens and other colours make life vibrant. The smell of wet soil, raindrops on the petals of Rangan, Kamini, Jasmine, Gandharaj and Karabi flowers, the melting horizon, and rain-drenched evenings are a few reasons why I love monsoons. I am July born, so it’s obvious that monsoon resides in me (smiles).
What’s your fave monsoon dish?
I am not much of a foodie. I’d rather sit back on a rainy evening with a cup of beautiful steamy Darjeeling first flush and listen to the pitter-patter of the rain.
Give us a sneak peek into your monsoon playlist.
It comprises old Hindi songs related to rain. Rabindrasangeet, especially the song, Emono Dine Tare Bola Jay, is my monsoon favourite. I have a beautiful memory of my friend who would sit on a piano and sing this song for me. I also love to listen to Schubert or Mozart on a rainy night.

What is your go-to outfit during monsoon?
On a rainy day, I usually choose casuals like a long cotton dress with a jacket. But obviously, for special occasions, I prefer wearing saris or Settumunda, a traditional Kerala cotton dress in pure white.
If you were to enjoy movies on a rainy day, which films would make the cut?
I prefer detective movies, but horror movies are a strict no-no. I also love to watch old Uttam-Suchitra movies.
A long drive in the rain or lounging at home with a cup of coffee, which one would you pick?
I love both. I love long drives on rain-drenched highways. I also love a quiet rainy evening over a cup of hot coffee.
Which is your favourite place to watch the rain?
My rooftop terrace garden has a glass room in it. I sit there on a rocking chair and watch both the rain and rainbows. I am privileged to have found shelter in a place that offers me the vast endless sky, vibrant nature and a lush green horizon.
PIX: Kaustav Saikia
Makeup: Surajit
Styling: Anupam Chatterjee