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Kolkata is ready to celebrate with classic sweets like Roshogolla, Kanchagolla, and new flavors such as Ice Cream Sandesh, blending tradition and innovation in festive gatherings.
Classics like Sarpuria, Kanchagolla, Jalbhara, Dorbesh, and Chhanar Murki remain the first choice for many.
Now that Navratri is over, Kolkata is gearing up for Lakshmi Puja and then Diwali. The city’s streets echo with the footsteps of devotees heading not only to temples and pandals but also to their favorite sweet shops. It is customary to celebrate the festival on a sweet note, and this year, the enthusiasm is no different. From old family-run shops to modern chains, queues form early as people line up for the treats that will mark their Bijoya gatherings.
Even though newer, experimental sweets are gaining ground, the pull of tradition continues to dominate. Classics like Sarpuria, Kanchagolla, Jalbhara, Dorbesh, and Chhanar Murki remain the first choice for many.
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These sweets carry with them memories of family rituals, childhood nostalgia, and the authenticity of Bengal’s culinary heritage. “No matter what new flavors come, Roshogolla or Kanchagolla will always remain part of Bijoya,” says one shopkeeper, summing up the city’s unwavering love for its roots.
Eight Varieties of Roshogolla
This year, sweet makers have gone all out with Roshogolla, Bengal’s pride and joy. The traditional white Rajbhog is joined by an array of flavored versions — Mango, Strawberry, Green Mango, Chocolate, and more.
Each piece is crafted with care to blend the soft texture of chhana (cottage cheese) with a burst of fruity or chocolaty surprise. For many families, buying the new flavors has become a ritual in itself, adding excitement to the familiar.
Alongside Roshogolla, Rabri has also expanded its presence. Malai Rabri continues to attract those who prefer creamy indulgence, but shops are also innovating with Rabri made from shorer dudh (thickened cream milk). These varieties appeal to those who want a richer, denser dessert after the long days of puja pandal hopping.
Ice Cream Sandesh: The New Favorite
Fusion sweets are finding their space too, especially among younger customers. Felu Modak, a well-known shop, has introduced five types of Ice Cream Sandesh. Flavors include Mango, Strawberry, Pista, and Chocolate, offering a playful twist to the traditional sandesh. For those who like their sweets chilled and creamy, this blend of ice cream and Bengal’s signature dessert has quickly become a hot favorite during Bijoya celebrations.
Earlier, Kora Pak Sandesh was available only in its classic plain white form. This year, however, sweet shops have reimagined it with multiple flavors, matching the variety seen in other sweets. Customers now get to choose from fruit-based, nutty, and chocolate-infused versions, expanding the appeal of this firmer, cooked sandesh.
Cakes, Payesh, and More
The innovation does not stop there. Bakers and mishti artisans have rolled out different flavors of Chhana Baked Cake, a modern adaptation of the classic sandesh. Payesh made from chhana, Mihidana, Sitabhog, and Goja are also finding their way into boxes that households exchange with friends and relatives. The variety ensures that every sweet tooth, whether preferring mild flavors or rich indulgence, finds something to savor.
The Shift Towards Lighter Sweets
Interestingly, many customers are showing a preference for sweets that are less sugary. Shop owners say there is a growing demand for items with subtle sweetness or fruit-based flavors that balance indulgence with lighter notes.
This trend reflects an urban awareness of health and lifestyle choices, yet it does not take away from the joy of festive indulgence. Ultimately, whether one bites into a Mango Roshogolla, a scoop of Ice Cream Sandesh, or a humble Kanchagolla, the essence of Bijoya or any festival lies in sharing sweets.
Families carry boxes across neighborhoods, friends exchange packets at gatherings, and shopkeepers work tirelessly to meet the rush. The balance of tradition and modernity in Kolkata’s sweet scene this year shows how the city honors its culinary heritage while embracing change.
In the end, festival is not just about pujas and aartis. it is about carrying forward the sweetness of community, culture, and connection – one roshogolla at a time.
About the Author
The News Desk is a team of passionate editors and writers who break and analyse the most important events unfolding in India and abroad. From live updates to exclusive reports to in-depth explainers, the Desk d…Read More
The News Desk is a team of passionate editors and writers who break and analyse the most important events unfolding in India and abroad. From live updates to exclusive reports to in-depth explainers, the Desk d… Read More
West Bengal, India, India
October 03, 2025, 11:44 IST
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