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Sunday 5 January 2014

The Jewish connection & the elegant mansion

Esplanade mansion 

The Esplanade Mansion 
Esplanade Mansion is undoubtedly one of the majestic and beautiful structures of Kolkata. Thus it attracts tourists and enthusiasts.  
It was in 1910, the gorgeous structure was built at the crossing of Esplanade Row (East) and Old Court House Street. Elias David Joseph Ezra, the well known Jewish businessman was the builder. Elias David Ezra also built Magen David Synagogue at Barabazar and Chowringhee Mansion which is adjacent to the Asiatic Society building at Park Street. 
  

 Originally built for residential purpose, the magnificient structure was used by the Americans later on. It was leased out to the American Government during the WW2. The American Library in Calcutta was in this building. 
During the shooting of The Philosopher's Stone (Parash Pathar- link- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eU_3l9hi_Oc&index=3&list=PL4B322308A647A447) in 1952, Satyajit Ray placed his movie camera at the roof of this building.