Durga Puja in Bengal is more than just a festival; it’s an emotion, a celebration that merges devotion, culture, and artistry. Particularly in Kolkata, Durga Puja has great emotional resonance since every pandal tells a story and provides original themes. This is a time when the city transforms into an art gallery as neighbourhoods fight to create the most incredible works of passion and creativity. But Durga Puja is really unforgettable because of its mix of culinary pleasures with rites. Food is intrinsically linked with the Puja celebrations, offering a parallel experience that is just as vibrant as the pandals themselves.
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Bengali street food adds a unique flavour to Durga Puja, making it a fascinating time to indulge in local delicacies. There’s something truly magical about biting into a piping hot kathi roll or slurping spicy phuchka amidst the festive crowd. The great variety of cuisine accentuates the grandeur of the pandals and transforms Kolkata's streets into a food paradise. Here are the top seven pandals and street foods you shouldn’t miss during Durga Puja 2024.
Top 7 Unique Kolkata Pandals And Street Foods
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Kumartuli Park – Traditional Clay Art and Ghugni Chaat
Kumartuli Park is a homage to the traditional artistry of Kolkata’s idol makers. This pandal, which honours idol-making craft with its earthy and real appeal, is close to the potters' colony in North Kolkata. The minute clay designs are a visual feast. Once you’ve soaked in the artistry, head over to try ghugni chaat. Made from yellow peas, this savoury meal is topped with onions, spices, and lime, providing a substantial, flavourful snack you can enjoy while pandal hopping.
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Also Read: Barir Durga Puja In North Kolkata: A Traditional Family Menu From Sashthi To Bijoya Dashami
AK Block, Salt Lake – Water Drop Theme and Phuchka
AK Block in Salt Lake has gained massive attention for its innovative "Water Drop" theme that raises awareness about water conservation. With its rhythmic rainwater effects, the pandal creates an immersive environment that mesmerises visitors. While in Salt Lake, you must try Kolkata's famous phuchka. These tangy, spicy water balls, similar to pani puri, are a burst of flavours. Vendors near the pandal serve them fresh, making it an experience as unforgettable as the pandal itself.
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Jodhpur Park – Experimental Themes And Rosogolla
Innovative and experimental themes based on social and environmental messages abound at Jodhpur Park, South Kolkata. This pandal is a must-visit with its vivid lights and provocative décor. To complete the experience, treat yourself to Bengal’s most iconic sweet – rasogolla. These soft, spongy balls made from chhena (Indian cottage cheese) and soaked in syrup are a delightful way to round off your Puja food adventure.
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Ekdalia Evergreen – Temple Architecture And Shingara
Ekdalia Evergreen is a popular traditional pandal known for its majestic temple-style architecture, located in South Kolkata. The intricate designs and the atmosphere of reverence here make it one of the most visited pandals during Durga Puja. As you admire the grand temple-style decor, indulge in some freshly fried shingara (Bengali samosa). Filled with spiced potatoes or mixed vegetables, this crispy snack is a local favourite and an essential part of the Puja culinary experience.
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Santosh Mitra Square – Architectural Heritage and Chop
Santosh Mitra Square stands out for its elaborate use of materials and themes focused on Kolkata’s architectural heritage. The grandeur of this Central Kolkata pandal will captivate anyone interested in the history and design of the city. After taking in the rich history, head to the nearby stalls to grab some chop. These deep-fried cutlets, stuffed with spiced vegetables or fish, are crunchy, flavourful, and perfect for an evening snack amidst the festive buzz.
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College Square – Lakeside Lights and Kathi Rolls
College Square is known for its stunning lights and mythological themes, with reflections shimmering off the adjacent lake, creating a magical experience. This pandal in Central Kolkata is a visual spectacle, especially in the evenings. While exploring the area, do not miss the iconic kathi rolls. Filled with grilled meats or vegetables wrapped in flaky paratha, Kathi rolls are a perfect on-the-go snack that captures the essence of Kolkata’s street food.
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Bagbazar Sarbojanin – Timeless Tradition and Mughlai Paratha
One of the oldest pandals in the city, Bagbazar Sarbojanin, in North Kolkata, is revered for its timeless tradition and cultural significance. The understated elegance and classic themes make it a must-visit for anyone looking to experience the true spirit of Durga Puja. Close to this pandal, you’ll find vendors selling Mughlai paratha—a crispy, stuffed paratha often filled with eggs or minced meat. This indulgent snack is both filling and rich, making it a favourite during the festive season.
Durga Puja in Kolkata is a unique blend of devotion, art, and culinary experiences. The festive air is filled with the aroma of street food, adding another dimension to the celebration. As you explore the breathtaking pandals, the street food will be your constant companion, making the Puja experience truly complete. Whether it's the artistry of the pandals or the taste of phuchka and rosogolla, every moment will leave you with lasting memories.