Latest news with #DidierTalpain
Time of India
18-07-2025
- Politics
- Time of India
Raising a toast to the Indo-French bond on Bastille Day
The Consulate General of France in Kolkata hosted a grand dinner reception on July 14 to celebrate the National Day of France, also known as Bastille Day. In the presence of chief guest Vivek Kumar, IAS, Additional Chief Secretary to the Government of West Bengal, along with diplomats and dignitaries, the outgoing CG of France in Kolkata, Didier Talpain, raised a heartfelt toast to the occasion — one final time. French delicacies steal the spotlight Guests were treated to an array of artisanal breads and a curated selection of fine French cheeses, including the creamy Camembert, the nutty Emmental, and the rich Brie. The main course transported palates directly to France with aromatic herbed rice, the comforting Gratin dauphinois, the vibrant Ratatouille, and the classic Coq au Vin. A delightful assortment of desserts provided a sweet conclusion to the authentic culinary journey. My time in Kolkata has deepened my understanding of this unique connection, witnessing the passion and warmth that binds our two nations – Didier Talpain, French CG in Kolkata This event celebrates the strong and enduring ties between France and India, and the special connection that we share in West Bengal – Vivek Kumar, IAS
Time of India
28-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Time of India
The colour and vibrance of Kolkata is going to stay with me: Didier
As Didier Talpain, the Consul General of France in Kolkata prepares to bid farewell to the city after an impactful tenure of nearly four-years, we look back at him as not just a diplomat, but a passionate advocate of cultural exchange through music. Tired of too many ads? go ad free now In a city where conversations often begin with a melody, his dedication to bridging cultures has painted a vibrant picture of his time here and his hopes for Kolkata's musical future. Now as he heads back to Paris, he leaves behind a legacy rooted in both diplomacy and music. Ahead of his final concert in the city as a conductor, we caught up with him on Wednesday to talk about his musical journey, and the lasting memories of the city he takes with him. Music is a genuine catalyst in starting cross-cultural dialogue Music transcends languages and borders and if you are in Kolkata, you know it is easier to start a conversation over music than anything else. Calling music a means and a catalyst in bridging cultures, the consul general said, 'Music is the only art form where the emotions directly hit the brain. When you appreciate architecture, you do it after seeing and analysing it-you put a lot of filter, but music reaches the brain directly from the ears. If you like it, you like it, no matter if you understand the language or not.' Finding an audience for what he loves the most While Kolkata's love for music is profound, the Western classical genre is still a niche. 'We have done more over 15 concerts in the city in a span of three years, in collaboration with Alliance Francaise Du Bengale. Kolkata has a niche for Western Classical music. Maybe there aren't many who understand and like this genre but music is a lot like grammar, if you know the grammar once, you know all languages,' said Didier who has conducted concerts globally, including Jordan and Kazakhstan. Tired of too many ads? go ad free now On a parting note The Consul General has grown fond of the culture and colour of the city. 'Kolkata is a melting pot of cultures and colours which looks great to a musician and a diplomat's eye,' said Didier. When asked about his vision for the city, the musician in him took over and said, 'I wish the city continues to love and appreciate Western Classical music. You never know, Kolkata might host its own Opera someday.' I've conducted concerts globally and would characterise the local talent here as curious. They study music, understand its nuances. It is a two-way learning process Remembering the first time he saw Durga Puja pandals in the city, he said, 'When I explain to people in Europe, I tell them that Durga Puja is a mix of Christmas and Rio Carnival.'
