Introduction
Founded in 1874, Adi Mohini Mohan Kanjilal (AMMK) is among the oldest surviving saree showrooms in India. Located in North Kolkata (Hatibagan area) with multiple branches across the city, it is celebrated for preserving Bengal’s handloom identity through sarees like Jamdani, Baluchari, Dhakai muslin, and Tant. For heritage travelers, visiting AMMK is a journey into Bengal’s living textile traditions.
History & Legacy
- Established in 1874 by Mohini Mohan Kanjilal, the store has thrived for nearly 150 years.
- It became a household name for Durga Puja, weddings, and cultural festivals, where buying a saree from AMMK was considered auspicious.
- AMMK’s legacy is intertwined with Kolkata’s cultural and social life, serving as a custodian of Bengal’s heritage weaves.
- It continues to expand while remaining deeply connected to weaver communities across West Bengal.
Craftsmanship & Saree Collections
- Jamdani Sarees: Intricate handwoven artistry with delicate floral and geometric motifs.
- Baluchari Silks: Mythology-inspired woven pallus from Bishnupur, rich in narrative detail.
- Tant Sarees: Everyday cottons with bright colors and distinctive borders.
- Dhakai Muslin: The legendary fine muslin weave, light as air and rare to find.
- Kantha Embroidery Sarees: Hand-embroidered sarees with folk-inspired storytelling stitches.
- Bridal Silks: Includes Banarasi silks alongside traditional Bengal bridal sarees.
Why Visit AMMK as a Heritage Tourist?
- Historic significance: At nearly 150 years old, AMMK is a true pioneer of Bengal’s saree trade.
- Cultural immersion: Strongly tied to Bengali festivals and rituals, especially Durga Puja.
- Authenticity: Sarees sourced directly from Bengal’s weaver clusters, ensuring heritage quality.
- Timeless reputation: Owning an AMMK saree is still considered a matter of prestige among Bengalis.
Online Presence
- Official Website: adikanjilal.com
- Online shopping with nationwide and international delivery.
- Active social media presence highlighting heritage collections and festive launches.
Visitor Information
- Location: Main showroom in Hatibagan, with branches in Gariahat and other parts of Kolkata.
- Timings: 10:00 AM – 9:00 PM.
- Travel Tip: Combine your visit to the Hatibagan store with College Street and North Kolkata’s heritage lanes for a cultural day-out.
Conclusion
Adi Mohini Mohan Kanjilal is not merely a saree store but a living monument of Bengal’s textile history. With nearly 150 years of legacy, it continues to stand tall as one of Kolkata’s most prestigious names in handloom sarees. For heritage tourists, a visit to AMMK offers a direct encounter with Bengal’s weaving soul, from Jamdani to Baluchari.