Mihidana is an Indian sweet originating from Burdwan, West Bengal and is often considered to be the "micro cousin" of boondi as its grain-like texture is very fine. Mihidana derives its name from two Bengali words: "Mihi," meaning fine, and "Dana" meaning grain. A delicate mixture of powdered rice varieties Kaminibhog, Gobindobhog, and basmati, combined with gram flour and saffron gives a special hand-whisked batter, which is deep-fried in ghee and soaked in sugar syrup. The grains are tiny with golden colours and burst with flavour.
Mihidana has successfully acquired a unique place in the hearts of sweet lovers, particularly during festivals like Durga Puja and Dussehra. In Kolkata, the city’s streets come alive with festive energy, and Mihidana becomes a sought-after delicacy to offer to the goddess and share with loved ones. Its popularity has increased manifold after attaining the GI tag in 2017 and has continued to grow. The latest export to Bahrain has further boosted its demand worldwide.
To help you shortlist the best spots, Slurrp asked the city foodies; here's a list of top Mihidana spots in Kolkata you cannot miss.
Instagram/@anindita_writes. Edited by Slurrp
1. Sen Mahasay - Recommended by @littlehealthyish and @kolkataclassics
Sen Mahasay is the iconic name for Bengali sweets and has some delightful traditional sweets. Their Mihidana is a must-have light texture balancing its richness in sugar. Along with their utterly famous Mihidana, don't miss out on the creamy Sandesh that will leave you wanting it even more. This old-school shop guarantees a scrumptious sweet experience that lingers long after you’ve left.
Address: 104, Rash Behari Ave, Market, Kalighat, Kolkata, West Bengal 700029
Timings: 8 am–10 pm
Contact: 033 2484 5292
2. Hindustan Sweets – Recommended by @littlehealthyish
High in quality and taste, the Mihidana at Hindustan Sweets is truly divine. For each grain separated and melts smoothly in your mouth, this one's sure to devour. The shop also offers an extensive range of other Bengali sweets, making it a one-stop destination for sweet lovers Whether looking for traditional flavours you seek or new flavours, this outlet won't disappoint you.
Address: FCR4+7FW, Mukundapur Main Rd, Ramkrishna Palli, Chit Kalikapur, Mukundapur, Kolkata, West Bengal 700099
Timings: 8 am–10 pm
Contact: 079809 50097
3. Balaram Mullick & Radharaman Mullick- Recommended by @littlehealthyish
This legendary sweet shop never compromises on the quality of sweets. Their Mihidana is absolutely sweet and fulfills all cravings, you would need one more, another one, and so on. Besides Mihidana, their special sweets such as Abar Khabo Sandesh and Chaler Dudh are worth trying. For an authentic experience of Kolkata, Balaram Mullick & Radharaman Mullick is a must-visit place.
Address: 2, Broad St, Ballygunge Place, Ballygunge, Kolkata, West Bengal 700019
Timings: 10 am–8:30 pm
Contact: 913322903964
4. Bhim Chandra Na - Recommended by @littlehealthyish
Steeped in history, Bhim Chandra Nag is known for its top-of-the line Bengali sweets, including their mouthwatering Mihidana. The moment you taste their delicacies, you are transported to the regal past of Kolkata. Known for their aristocratic quality, the sweets here offer an unparalleled experience that will satisfy any sweet tooth.
Address: 5, Nirmal Chandra St, Bow Bazar, Kolkata, West Bengal 700012
Timings: 8 am–10 pm
Contact: 91 85838 33810
5. Ganguram and Sons Recommended by @littlehealthyish
Over the legacy of over 52 years, Ganguram and Sons are indeed synonymous with traditional Bengali sweets. Their Mihidana is in great demand among the patrons for its mild sweetness and fresh taste. Apart from Mihidana, Chhanar Payesh and Jolbhora Sandesh are in much demand here. This shop is a haven for sweet tooths and is pocket-friendly.
Address: 159C, Vivekananda Rd, Manicktala, Azad Hind Bag, Kolkata, West Bengal 700006
Timings: 7 am–10 pm
Contact: 070445 70570
6. VIP Sweets - Recommended by @kolkataclassics
Want to have that Bengali feel of authentic sweets in your festivity? Then, VIP Sweets is there for the rescue. It has a devoted line of faithful customers who throng to its shop just for the heavenly taste of its delectable Mihidana. Traditional flavours bind its secret and make sure that you get the freshest and mildly sweet experience of Mihidana perfect for any festive occasion. VIP Sweets is a dependable choice for high-quality Bengali sweets.
Address: E.M.By Pass Chingrighata, 448A, Eastern Metropolitan Bypass Rd, Milan Nagar, Nabapally, Sector IV, Bidhannagar, Kolkata, West Bengal 700098
Timings: 7 am–11 pm
Contact: 070443 66347
7. Bancharam’s - Recommended by @kolkataclassics
Bancharam's is a well-known sweet brand in Kolkata, which has an over 46-year legacy. Mihidana is their festive sweet, especially at Durga Puja when everyone buzzes with celebration in the city. Bancharam’s offers over 250 delicacies, making it a go-to spot for anyone looking to enjoy authentic Bengali sweets.
Address: P13, Phase – 1, Kasba Industrial Estate, Kolkata, West Bengal 700107
Timings: 9 am–9 pm
Contact: 18001206325
8. Anandamayee Sweets- Recommended by @kolkataclassics
Quite a local favourite for some time now and when it comes to fine Mihidana, no question at all that people go there. In fact, the texture and taste of the Mihidana here is of top-notch quality. It has become an indispensable sweet for Bengali foodies among whom a huge section would do just about anything to taste any portion of this Bengali delicacy.
Address: 209, Ananya Stopage, B.T. Road, Baranagar, Kolkata
Timings: 8 am – 11 pm
Contact: 913325770120
9. Naba Krishna Guin - Recommended by @kolkataclassics
Naba Krishna Guin located on Bow Bazar Street in Kolkata, offers an infinite variety of Bengali sweets. Amongst the prominent items is Mihidana, a dessert that does depict freshness and rich flavour. With a warm environment and best quality Bengali sweets, this sweet shop is perfectly suited to brighten up the evening.
Address: 9b, Nirmal Chandra St, Bowbazar, Kolkata, West Bengal 700012
Timings: 8 am–9 pm
Contact: 098301 46063