Visiting the exhibition for me was like stepping into a totally different world

Most definitely. Kolkata (althoght its 150 km away from teh coast) like other big coastal cities were hubs for cuisine, trade, colonialism, education,millitary....

I think you'll also find Mumbai formerly (Bombay) very interesting.

Both have a charm I can't properly describe. I think there's something for everyone. A mix of the old and new.

You should make a trip!