Shopping As A Puja Ritual
Durga Puja in Kolkata is more than just pandals and cultural performances. It is also a time when the city’s markets are filled with families picking out new sarees, jewellery, sweets, and gifts. The tradition of “pujo shopping” is deeply ingrained in the festival, and each shopping hub in Kolkata offers its own charm, heritage, and treasures. Whether you are looking for handwoven sarees, statement jewellery, puja paraphernalia, or books for the holidays, Kolkata’s markets have something for everyone.
New Market The Classic Bazaar
At the heart of the city stands New Market, Kolkata’s oldest and most bustling shopping hub. With its red-brick colonial charm and sprawling maze of shops, it remains a one-stop destination for festive needs. From affordable cotton sarees to luxurious silks, from imitation jewellery to silver trinkets, from décor to puja essentials, New Market has it all. Its bakeries and cafés, particularly Nahoum’s, are legendary and add to the festive charm. During Puja season, the lanes become crowded with shoppers bargaining, laughing, and celebrating, making it an experience as much as a purchase.
Gariahat Hatibagan And Dakshinapan The Saree And Handloom Hubs
If you are in South Kolkata, Gariahat is a must-visit. Known for its wide array of sarees, blouses, bangles, and street stalls, this area buzzes with festive energy. Just north lies Hatibagan, another hotspot where generations of Bengalis have picked their Puja attire. For those who prefer quieter shopping with authentic handicrafts, Dakshinapan Shopping Complex offers government-run emporiums selling handloom sarees, jewellery, décor, and homeware. It is a calmer option with curated selections that highlight Bengal’s artisanal traditions.
College Street And Park Street Books Cafés And Boutique Finds
College Street, also known as Boi Para, is every book lover’s dream. With rows of tiny shops, second-hand bookstalls, and iconic cafés, it is the perfect place to buy something thoughtful for your Puja holidays. Park Street offers a more refined shopping experience with iconic stores, boutiques, and elegant cafés. If you want air-conditioned comfort or branded shopping, South City Mall and other modern malls in the city provide a convenient escape from the Puja rush while still keeping the festive spirit alive.
Tips For The Perfect Puja Shopping Experience
Puja shopping in Kolkata requires planning. The streets and metros are busier than usual, so use a mix of public transport and short cab rides to navigate efficiently. Bargaining is expected in markets like New Market, Gariahat, and Hatibagan, while fixed prices apply in boutiques and emporiums. Carry small cash and reusable shopping bags for convenience. And of course, do not forget to sample sweets like sandesh and mishti doi, which are an essential part of the Puja shopping ritual.
The Joy Of Shopping In Kolkata During Puja
Shopping during Durga Puja is not just about buying clothes or jewellery; it is about being part of Kolkata’s living culture. Walking through New Market’s buzzing lanes, browsing handlooms at Dakshinapan, or sipping coffee after a book hunt in College Street all become part of the festive memory. It is this blend of tradition, community, and festivity that makes Kolkata’s Puja shopping so unique and unforgettable.
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