Beyond Baroari

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 In Courtyards of Time, Ma Durga Waits 

Hidden among the thousands of dazzling “Theme Pujos” that light up Kolkata every autumn, lie a handful of century-old Bonedi Bari pujos—quiet, dignified, and steeped in tradition. These ancestral homes, tucked away in the oli-goli (narrow lanes) of North Kolkata, have been celebrating Durga Pujo long before the concept of pandals and prizes came into being.

On this walk, we step into a world where time seems to pause. We’ll visit the Thakur Dalans and Aatchalas of some of the city’s most illustrious families—the Chatterjees, Ghoshes, Dattas, Sahas, Lahas, Daws, and many more—each with its own unique rituals, legends, and architectural grandeur.

These homes are not just about pujo—they are living museums of Bengal’s aristocratic past. From intricate terracotta work and Belgian glass chandeliers to age-old customs passed down through generations, every corner has a story to tell. You’ll hear about the zamindars who once hosted British officials, the women who shaped the rituals behind the scenes, and the community spirit that still binds these families together.

And of course, no pujo experience is complete without food! Expect to be tempted by traditional bhog, sweets, and maybe even a surprise treat or two from the kitchens of these heritage homes.- btw.. this part, we cant guarantee though :)

Come walk with us through the soul of Kolkata’s Durga Pujo—where devotion meets legacy, and every courtyard echoes with stories of a glorious past.