Devanjana Mukherjee, Khabri Media
This is the second Durga puja after all curbs related to the Covid-19 pandemic were withdrawn, giving the public to choose from plethora of options.
(Pic: Social Media)
Each year, Kolkata residents and visitors alike come together to celebrate the goddess Durga’s homecoming with pomp and grandeur. Renowned for its vibrant culture, artistic traditions, and a deep-rooted love for food, the city’s restaurants experience a tremendous surge in business, thus making it more than just prayers and revelry.
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This year the fine dining restaurants of the city made Rs 1,100 crore in six days culminating on ‘Dashami’, the last day of the festival, which is more than 20 per cent of the earnings in the same period last year, according to the Hotel and Restaurant Association of Eastern India.
The buoyancy remained on all six days till Dashami as foodies were found till 3 am across eateries, thus keeping a surge of 20-25 per cent rise in sales compared to the figure last year. In comparison to last year, there was a 10-12 per cent growth in sales across all outlets during the Durga Puja period.
The culinary scene in Kolkata during Durga Puja is nothing short of a gastronomic extravaganza. Families and friends congregate at pandals (elaborate temporary structures housing Durga idols) and food stalls to sample delectable dishes that are an integral part of the celebration.
Bengali delicacies (Pic: Social Media)
One of the most popular aspects of Durga Puja celebrations is the street food culture that takes center stage. Iconic food items like kathi rolls, phuchka (pani puri), jhalmuri (spicy puffed rice), and biryani are found in abundance.
Many restaurants offer special Durga Puja menus, catering to the demand for festive feasts. Traditional Bengali thalis, featuring items like maach (fish) and bhaat (rice) alongside a variety of vegetables and sweets, are especially popular.
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Kolkata residents now have the option to choose from an array of international cuisines, including Chinese, Italian, and Continental. This diversity ensures that people from all walks of life can enjoy their favorite dishes during the festival. Various food delivery apps have made it convenient for residents to order dishes from their preferred restaurants, thereby increasing the reach and revenue for eateries.
This culinary extravaganza not only stimulates the local economy but also reinforces the sense of togetherness and tradition that is at the heart of this grand festival. The fusion of traditional Bengali cuisine with modern and international options has made the food scene in Kolkata during Durga Puja truly exceptional.
