1 1

The Rumour of Calcutta: Tourism, Charity and the Poverty of Representation by John Hutnyk [Premium Books]

The Rumour of Calcutta: Tourism, Charity and the Poverty of Representation by John Hutnyk [Premium Books]

Rs. 599.00
Rs. 699.00 Rs. 599.00
Sale Sold out
Shipping calculated at checkout.
CONDITION

Book Summary

The Rumour of Calcutta is a cultural critique that examines how the Indian city of Kolkata (formerly Calcutta) has been represented and imagined — particularly by Western travellers, tourism guides, volunteer charity workers, literature, cinema, photography, and maps. Rather than treating these portrayals as neutral observations, Hutnyk shows how such depictions often create an imagined “city of intensities” that emphasises poverty, decay, exoticism, and suffering in ways that reinforce unequal global power relations and stereotypes. By analysing the “rumours” circulated through traveller-lore and media, the book argues that these narratives don’t simply describe the city but play an active role in shaping and maintaining perceptions that often obscure lived realities and reproduce a “poverty of representation” — limited, distorted views of a complex urban and cultural life. To support this argument, Hutnyk engages with critical theory, drawing on thinkers such as Heidegger, Marx, Spivak, Derrida, and others to unpack how representation itself influences our understanding of place and people.

About the Author 

John Hutnyk is a British academic and cultural theorist whose work focuses on the politics of representation, cultural studies, tourism, media, and postcolonial theory. He has held academic positions around the world, including roles as Associate Professor in sociology and cultural studies, and visiting scholar appointments in universities across Europe and Asia. Hutnyk is known for his interdisciplinary approach, combining insights from anthropology, philosophy, cultural theory, and critical sociology to explore how cultural productions influence the way societies see and interact with one another. In addition to The Rumour of Calcutta, he has written and edited other influential works such as Critique of Exotica, Bad Marxism, and Global South Asia on Screen, contributing to debates on culture, identity, and power in a globalised world.

Product features

✅ 100% Original Books

Every book is authentic and sourced responsibly—no pirated or photocopied material.

🔍 32-Point Quality Check

Each book undergoes a detailed inspection for pages, cover, binding, and readability.

📚 Wide Range of Genres

From fiction and self-help to academic and non-fiction—something for every reader.

💸 Budget-Friendly Prices

Get great books at unbeatable prices—perfect for students, readers, and collectors.

✨ Pre-Loved, Not Worn Out

Books are gently used, clean, and in good readable condition.

🌱 Eco-Friendly Choice

Buying used books helps reduce waste and promotes sustainable reading.

🚚 Pan-India Shipping

Fast, reliable delivery to every corner of India, with tracking and support.

💬 Customer Support

Responsive customer service to help with any order or book-related query.

Materials and care

📚 Materials

– Gently used, original print books.
– No photocopies or pirated prints—100% original.
– Checked for legibility and intact spines.
– Some books may contain light pencil notes or highlights.

🧼 Care Instructions

– Keep books away from moisture and direct sunlight.
– Use a bookmark to maintain page quality.
– Use a soft, dry cloth to wipe dust from covers.
– Preserve the pages and cover from smudges or stains.
– Prevent warping by storing books upright on shelves.

Merchandising tips

🛍️ Tips for Buying Used Books on BestofUsedBooks.com

✅ Check the Book Condition

Look for labels like “Like New,” “Good,” or “Readable” to know exactly what to expect before buying.

📚 Explore Curated Collections

Browse through themed bundles like “Top Self-Help Reads” or “Fiction Under ₹299”—perfect for discovering hidden gems.

💡 Read Descriptions Carefully

Each product page lists key details like page quality, binding condition, and possible markings—take a quick moment to review.

🎁 Buy More, Save More

Take advantage of bundle deals and discounted packs to build your library while saving big.

🌱 Choose Sustainability

Buying pre-loved books is a smart, eco-friendly choice—reduce waste and support circular reading!

🔍 Use Search & Filters

Use filters by genre, author, or condition to find exactly what you're looking for, faster.

📦 Track Your Order


Once placed, every order comes with trackable shipping—so you always know where your next read is!

  • 32 Points Quality Check
  • 100% Original Products
  • 1.2 Million + Happy Customers
View full details
Variant Variant total Quantity Price Variant total
New374JW3SW1-New
New374JW3SW1-New
Rs. 699.00
Rs. 599.00/ea
 Rs. 0.00
Rs. 699.00
Rs. 599.00/ea
 Rs. 0.00

Other Best Sellers

1 8
View all