Understanding the Formation of Present-Day Kolkata

The question asks about the third village that combined with Kalikata and Gobindapur to form present-day Kolkata in the year 1690. This historical event is significant in the history of Kolkata and the British East India Company's presence in India.

Identifying the Three Villages of Kolkata

Historically, the city of Kolkata was not established as a single planned entity from scratch. Instead, it grew from the amalgamation of three distinct villages located on the eastern bank of the Hooghly River. These villages were:

• Kalikata
• Gobindapur
• The third village, which is the subject of the question.

These villages were brought under the control of the British East India Company, and their merging laid the foundation for the future city of Calcutta, which is now known as Kolkata.

The Correct Third Village: Sutanuti

Among the options provided, the correct answer that completes the list of three villages is Sutanuti. The British East India Company factor, Job Charnock, is often credited with the establishment of the settlement at Sutanuti on August 24, 1690. Sutanuti was a riverside village that served as a trading post.

The acquisition of proprietary rights over these three villages — Sutanuti, Kalikata, and Gobindapur — was formalised in 1698 when the British East India Company purchased them from the local landlord (zamindar).

Therefore, the three villages that formed the nucleus of present-day Kolkata were Sutanuti, Kalikata, and Gobindapur.

Let's consider the provided options:

• Samsing: This is a hill station in North Bengal, not related to the formation of Kolkata.
• Sutanuti: This is historically one of the three core villages.
• Bakkhali: This is a coastal area in South Bengal, not related to the formation of Kolkata.
• Rimbick: This is a village in the Darjeeling district, not related to the formation of Kolkata.

Based on historical records, Sutanuti is the correct third village.

Summary of the Foundation of Kolkata

The process involved:

1. Job Charnock's selection of Sutanuti in 1690 as a trading post.
2. Acquisition of Sutanuti, Kalikata, and Gobindapur by the British East India Company in 1698.
3. Development of a fortified settlement, Fort William, in Kalikata.
4. Growth of the area around these three villages into the city of Calcutta.

This historical context confirms that Sutanuti was indeed the third village.

Revision Table: Formation of Kolkata

Additional Information: Historical Significance of Kolkata's Foundation

The merging of Sutanuti, Kalikata, and Gobindapur marked the formal beginning of British influence in this specific area, which would eventually become the capital of British India. Kalikata was chosen for the location of Fort William, the fortified trading post. Gobindapur was initially a large village south of Kalikata, which was later cleared to make way for the construction of the new Fort William and the Maidan. Sutanuti, being the initial landing point, remained an important part of the growing city, particularly as a market area. The strategic location on the Hooghly River provided access for trade, contributing significantly to the growth and importance of the city.

Understanding the formation of Kolkata from these three villages provides insight into its historical development and its role as a major port and administrative center during the British Raj.