Nobin Chandra Das, established in 1845, forever changed Bengali gastronomy by inventing the beloved rosogolla. In 1864, he set up his iconic sweet shop in Kolkata's Baghbazar area. Known as the "Columbus of Rossogolla," Nobin Chandra Das revolutionised Indian desserts by creating the spongy, syrup-soaked rosogolla that became a cultural symbol of Bengal. His innovation made its way into Bengali households and festivals, gaining national and international recognition. His humble beginnings and desire to experiment with chhana (cottage cheese) led him to create one of the most cherished sweets in India.
Video Credit: YouTube | It's Pratik
The legacy continued when Nobin Chandra's son, Krishna Chandra Das, took the business further, establishing the renowned K.C. Das brand. The family introduced canned rosogollas and mechanised production, expanding their reach across the globe. Now called Nobin Chandra Das & Sons, the sweet shop is still a legendary spot for sweeties. Both residents and visitors alike have developed a particular place in their hearts, and it is well known for providing a great range of traditional Bengali sweets, particularly the rosogolla.
A Glimpse Into The History Of Nobin Chandra Das
Image Credit: Creative Commons
Nobin Chandra Das started his journey as a confectioner in 1864 after overcoming hardships in his youth. He opened his first shop in the Bagbazar-Shobhabazar area of Kolkata. His drive to innovate in sweet-making resulted in the creation of the rosogolla in 1868. This spongy sweet, made of chhana and soaked in sugar syrup, became a staple in Bengali households. Over time, Nobin Chandra’s legacy grew, and his son expanded the family business, leading to the introduction of new sweets like abar khabo and the first canned rosogolla.
What To Order
When visiting Nobin Chandra Das & Sons, there are several must-try items beyond the famous rosogolla. These include abar khabo, a sandesh variant known for its creamy, melt-in-the-mouth texture. Unique flavour combinations abound from other noteworthy items, including dedo, kastura, and fruit-infused sandesh. Traditional sweets like baikuntha bhog also provide a taste of the shop’s heritage. Their rosomalai is another popular choice, a soft dessert soaked in creamy milk. Each sweet offers a different experience, making Nobin Chandra Das & Sons a must-visit for dessert enthusiasts.
Why Nobin Chandra Das & Sons Is Famous
Image Credit: Creative Commons
The fame of Nobin Chandra Das & Sons lies in its history as the birthplace of the rosogolla. Nobin Chandra’s innovative technique of using chhana to create a light, spongy sweet set the shop apart from other confectioners. The business expanded its reach by introducing canned rosogollas, making it easier to share this delicacy across India and beyond. The shop also gained attention for its attention to detail and focus on quality, ensuring that every sweet served upholds its rich legacy. Rosogolla's iconic status has made this sweet synonymous with the cultural pride of Bengal.
Tips For Visiting Nobin Chandra Das
Video Credit: YouTube | foodbooks777
For the best experience at Nobin Chandra Das & Sons, visiting during non-peak hours is advisable to avoid long queues, especially during festivals like Durga Puja. Try a variety of sweets, not just rosogolla, to fully appreciate the shop’s offerings. It's best to carry cash as the shop may not always accept digital payments. The staff is helpful, so feel free to ask them for recommendations if you're unsure about what to try. If you're planning to gift sweets, the canned rosogolla is a great option as it has a longer shelf life.
Price For Two
Nobin Chandra Das & Sons is a moderately priced sweet shop where two people can enjoy a variety of sweets for around ₹200 to ₹300. The pricing is reasonable, especially considering the historical significance of the shop and the quality of sweets they provide. The affordability makes it an accessible treat for locals and visitors alike, ensuring everyone can experience the legendary rosogolla and other traditional sweets.
Additional Information: A Film On Nobin Chandra Das
Image Credit: Creative Commons
The life and legacy of Nobin Chandra Das were immortalised in the Bengali film Rosogolla (2018), directed by Pavel. The film chronicles his journey as a confectioner and his struggles to introduce rosogolla to the world. Actor Ujaan Ganguly portrayed Nobin Chandra in the film, highlighting his challenges as an innovator in a competitive environment. This film serves as a tribute to the man who transformed Bengali sweets and is a must-watch for those interested in the history of rosogolla.
Nobin Chandra Das & Sons is not just a sweet shop but a testament to a legacy of innovation and tradition in Indian desserts. Nobin Chandra’s creation of the rosogolla changed the way sweets were perceived in Bengal and beyond. From rosogolla to abar khabo, every sweet at this iconic shop offers a taste of history. Whether you’re a local or a tourist, visiting this legendary sweet shop is an unforgettable experience.