The village of Calcutta, Mahaicony is made of up predominantly African Guyanese, although the name might suggest it would be occupied by East Indians.
Uncertain of how the village got its name, one resident believes that it is because it was a rice-growing area. Growing rice is still the main source of income, while some persons are also engaged in cash-crop and livestock farming. Some villagers have sought employment with the Burma Rice Research Centre, located at the back of the village and accessed through the Burma Road.
Some residents also operate businesses like Mannie’s Vulcanizing Shop, a variety and off-licence liquor store, a bar, a snackette and catering service and a barber shop.
The village, bounded by Recess and Catherine, was described as being “quiet” and the people “nice and friendly. Everybody looks out for each other.”
Another village, Champagne can be found aback of Calcutta. It is accessed along the Burma Road which is in a deplorable state. Recently a contract was signed for the road to be rehabilitated at a cost of $7.5 M.
The village also has a Guyana Water Inc well station, a sports club ground, a primary school that students attend before moving on to secondary schools in other areas outside the community such as Central Mahaicony and Mahaica. The youths visit the