Discover the Charm of Russell Exchange Kolkata – A Treasure Trove of Antiques and Vintage Collectibles
Right at the center of Kolkata, in a small bylane off Russell Street, exists a spot which appears to stand still in time – the Russell Exchange. The modest auction house has silently stood witness to the changing culture, heritage, and penchant for anything vintage of this city for more than half a century. A local Kolkatan or anybody who delights in ageless riches, Russell Exchange Kolkata is somewhere you absolutely can’t afford to miss.
A Brief History of Russell Exchange
Started in the early 1940s, Russell Exchange was initially operated by a British gentleman – likely the eponymous “Russell”. After independence, it was acquired and carried forward by an Indian family. Presently, the exchange is operated by brothers Anwar Saleem and Arshad Salim, who have devotionately maintained its old-world charm while retaining pace with contemporary tastes.
For many years, it has remained one of Asia’s oldest functioning auction houses, and a go-to destination for serious collectors, film-makers, artists, and antique lovers in Kolkata.
What Makes Russell Exchange Unique?
Every Sunday, the Exchange comes alive with its iconic public auctions, attracting a mix of curious onlookers, serious buyers, and vintage enthusiasts. You’ll find a fascinating range of items here:
Colonial-era furniture
Vintage gramophones and radios
Old clocks, telephones, and chandeliers
Paintings, mirrors, and framed photographs
Typewriters, utensils, and offbeat bric-à-brac
Every item has a story, a past, and a certain soul that cannot be replaced by modern decor.
A Favorite Among Filmmakers and Artists
Did you know that the great Satyajit Ray, the legendary film director, was a frequent visitor to Russell Exchange? He would often take props and furniture for use in his films from here. The earthy, character-filled pieces he selected lent an air of authenticity and texture to his sets – one that continues to inspire generations of creative professionals.
Even now, Kolkata’s film production houses, photographers, and art directors visit Russell Exchange when they search for that ideal period setting.
The Experience: More Than Just Buying
A trip to Russell Exchange is not merely a shopping experience – it’s an adventure, a visit to another era. The vibe is relaxed, but charged with excitement. The auctioneers bid with effortless ease, and even if you don’t intend to purchase anything, being included in the activity is exhilarating.
Locals tend to pop in just to window shop, chat, and catch up with the past. It’s Sunday routine for most in the city – similar to flipping through an old family album, except every object you glance at might become part of your own tale.
Location and Timings
Address: 9, Russell Street, Kolkata – 700071
Auction Days: Every Sunday
Timings: Typically 10 AM to late afternoon, but early arrival is wise to view the choicest items.
The Exchange is centrally located and conveniently accessible from Park Street, Esplanade, and the neighborhood.
First-Time Visitor Tips
Arrive early – The best pieces tend to disappear early.
Carry cash – Although digital payments are available in some instances, good old-fashioned transactions are the norm.
Haggle wisely – Auctions can turn ruthless. Set your limits.
Look for hidden gems – Sometimes, the most valuable item isn’t the flashiest.
Why Russell Exchange Is a Must-Visit for Kolkatans
In a city that breathes nostalgia and history, Russell Exchange is the signpost for Kolkata’s stratified past. It brings generations together – from the old to the new, from the forgotten to the remembered. If you’re renovating your home, searching for film props, or just discovering Kolkata’s cultural pulse, Russell Exchange Kolkata is a rich, rewarding experience.
