Bhowanipore existed as a "dihi" in 1765 and also absorbed a part of Dihi Chakraberia. The construction of Harish Mukherjee Road and Lansdowne Road (now Sarat Bose Road) and extension of Hazra Road to Kalighat, opened up the area at the beginning of the 20th century. Aritsans played a role in developing the neighbourhood and making it a populous native place. The "kansaris" (braziers), the "shankharis" (conch workers) and the "telis" (oil pressers) - all had their "paras". The goods were sold in "pattis". Along with these artisans, Indian lawyers, including the most brilliant among them, flocked to Bhowanipore, as the Sadar Diwani Adalat, the highest appellate court in those days, had shifted to the old Military Hospital Building here, and the District Judge's court was in nearby Alipore.