River crews, religious differences, and social exclusion in Kolkata

Katari recalled that the port commissioners' craft were crewed almost entirely by Muslims from eastern Bengal, particularly Chittagong. He described them as skilled seamen who worked harmoniously under British, Hindu, and other officers. In his recollection, political and religious differences did not govern those working relationships, a situation he contrasted with later divisions. His own social life among officer colleagues was much less welcoming, and he initially knew nobody in Kolkata. Repetitive survey work offered little variety or room for ambition, making interests outside the service especially important. Over several years he built friendships among Bengali middle-class families with different social outlooks and found relief from professional isolation.