Kolkata’s oldest grande dame, the Great Eastern Hotel, opened its doors in 1840 — long before India’s first war of independence — and has since witnessed the city’s transformation. Discover its fascinating origins, legendary guests, and enduring heritage.
Origins & Early Days (1840)
The hotel was established on 14 November 1840 by David Wilson at 1–3 Old Court House Street, beside what was then called Tank Square (today’s Dalhousie Square / BBD Bag). At that time, the East India Company’s rule was steadily expanding and the city needed quality accommodation for officials, merchants and travellers.
Originally christened the Auckland Hotel — after George Eden, 1st Earl of Auckland and then Governor-General of India — locals soon began referring to it simply as “Wilson’s Hotel”.
Originally christened the Auckland Hotel — after George Eden, 1st Earl of Auckland and then Governor-General of India — locals soon began referring to it simply as “Wilson’s Hotel”.
 |
George Eden, the 1st Earl of Auckland |
 |
The photograph was captured between 1850- 1870 & is preserved in Victoria & Alburt MuseumFrom Bakery to Grand Hotel: The Vision of David WilsonDavid Wilson began as a confectioner and ran a bakery at the site even before the hotel existed. When the Auckland Hotel opened, the bakery was incorporated — and for decades, the breads and cakes of the Great Eastern Hotel became a legend in Kolkata. By the 1860s, the company was renamed to The Great Eastern Hotel Wine & General Purveying Co., adopting the name inspired by the famous Great Eastern ship — a clever early marketing move, as many travellers arrived by sea and would instantly recognize the name. Heritage & Grandeur: Famous Guests and Royal PatronsOver the decades, the hotel played host to several distinguished guests: - Mark Twain — the American author stayed here for a few days (though, reportedly, had a rough time due to Kolkata’s rains and asthma). - Mahatma Gandhi - Queen Elizabeth II - Nikita Khrushchev (then Premier of the Soviet Union) Royal families of Cooch Behar, Burdwan and Travancore often booked suites year-round, with special attendants dressed in uniforms bearing royal emblems. Strategic Location & Significance in Colonial KolkataWith nearly 100 rooms soon after its founding, the hotel became the go-to place for travellers arriving at Kolkata’s port — a practical and prestigious address in the commercial heart of the city. Its proximity to key landmarks like the Writer’s Building, Government House and the port made it ideally located to serve merchants, officials, and foreign visitors.
|
