Sister Nibedita University is Hosting "COSMIC ADDA" Today at Kolkata Book Fair 2026

Astronomy enthusiasts and photography buffs have a special treat awaiting them tomorrow at the 49th International Kolkata Book Fair. Sister Nibedita University invites all to "COSMIC ADDA: Capture the Cosmos!" It is an interactive astrophotography workshop meant for beginners who are interested in taking pictures of the night sky using smartphones and basic cameras, even in light-polluted cities like Kolkata.

Event Details (Happening NOW):
SNU Stall, Gate 5, Boimela Prangan, Salt Lake
Today: January 24, 2026
Time: 2:00 PM – 4:00 PM (2 hours left!)
FREE – Walk-in only

Soumyadeep Mukherjee, an expert from Astronomads Bangla, will demonstrate techniques for night sky imaging, necessary equipment, and tips for astrophotography in the city, despite the presence of city lights.

Perfect Workshop for Book Fair Weekend Crowds

Organized from January 22 to February 3, 2026, the International Kolkata Book Fair converts Boimela Prangan into Asia's largest non-trade book fair, with millions of visitors. The astronomy corner is formed at the Sister Nibedita University stall providing a welcome relief to the visitors from the book stalls.

Participants will learn about smartphone settings for star trails, how to use tripods with cheap ₹500 accessories, spotting sites in Kolkata, and free post-processing software. The workshop is designed for students, amateur photographers, and astronomy enthusiasts who are interested in taking pictures of the Milky Way, details of planets, and constellations without investing in costly telescopes.

Expert Guidance from Astronomads Bangla

Soumyadeep Mukherjee has experience teaching astrophotography classes in challenging environments. The light pollution in Kolkata makes it difficult to observe the stars, but Soumyadeep’s lecture shows how to overcome these issues:

• Best camera settings for low-light conditions
• Stabilisation methods using household items
• Finding visible constellations from city rooftops
• Free editing software for dramatic sky photos
• Free editing software for dramatic sky

“Come for the stars, stay for the stories” aptly captures the adda atmosphere of the workshop where people come to learn technology and also share their experiences through pictures.

Free Entry During Book Fair Hours

No registration is required, just go to SNU Stall at Gate 5 between 2-4 PM. This activity is perfectly timed within the Book Fair schedule (12 PM-8 PM). Sister Nibedita University continues its five-year Book Fair partnership, blending science outreach with Kolkata's biggest cultural festival. Cosmic Adda joins SNU's book launches and press events throughout the 13-day literary celebration.

Don't miss Kolkata's sky through your lens! Head to Gate 5 NOW before the stars come out tonight