India State Story | West Bengal | A2 size poster

• Visual story of the evolution of each state (or combination of states/ UTs for joint posters) pre and post Independence , along with key figures involved 
• Map of district evolution for large states and UTs
• Interesting features on name changes and district splits
• Alluvial chart tracing the changes in districts from 1951 onwards
• Interesting, did you know.

Visual Story of West Bengal’s Evolution

West Bengal's story is intricately woven with the tumultuous history of partition, linguistic movements, and shifting regional identities. Before Independence, the region was part of the Bengal Presidency—one of British India’s largest and most influential administrative units. The first partition of Bengal by the British in 1905, and its reversal in 1911, sowed the seeds of political awakening. Post-Independence, Bengal was again divided—this time permanently—into East Pakistan (now Bangladesh) and West Bengal in India. This partition triggered massive demographic shifts, with refugees crossing borders and new urban settlements forming, especially in Kolkata. Despite its name suggesting geographical orientation, “West Bengal” was retained even after the east became a sovereign country in 1971. Over time, state leaders made attempts to rename it “Paschim Banga” or “Bangla” to reflect linguistic identity, but these efforts remain pending.

Spatial Dynamics and District Evolution

West Bengal’s district landscape has expanded gradually from 14 districts in 1951 to 23 by 2021, primarily through bifurcation of larger districts like Bardhaman, 24 Parganas, and Darjeeling. The alluvial chart visually tracks these shifts, highlighting administrative responses to urban growth, regional disparities, and border management challenges. The creation of districts like Alipurduar and Kalimpong reflect ethnic and regional demands for recognition and governance. “Did You Know?” features could explore how Kolkata, once the capital of British India, became a refuge for millions and how enclaves like Cooch Behar were integrated post-Independence. This poster tells the story of how West Bengal, despite its fraught borders and layered history, has evolved into a vibrant, administratively complex state that continues to balance heritage, diversity, and modern governance.