A Glimpse into the Historic Mallick Bari
Nestled in the heart of South Kolkata, the Bhawanipore Mallick Bari stands as a proud symbol of Bengal’s aristocratic heritage and deep-rooted devotion. Located at 25A, C, Mohini Mohon Road, near Jadubabur Bazar, this stately residence has preserved the essence of the bonedi bari (old aristocratic family) traditions for nearly a century. The Mallick family, well known in Bengal’s cultural circles, has maintained a dignified and devotional Durga Puja here since the early 1920s.
Origins and Traditions of the Puja
The Bhawanipore Mallick family follows Vaishnava traditions, which lend a distinct spiritual flavor to their Durga Puja. Unlike many traditional Pujas in Bengal, no animal sacrifice is performed here. The rituals are marked by purity and simplicity, and only vegetarian food is prepared during the festival days from Sasthi to Nabami. Another unique custom is that rice is never offered to the Goddess — instead, offerings made from wheat and other grains are used.
The Puja was first celebrated at the family’s ancestral home before being revived in the Bhawanipore residence around 1924–25, and has continued ever since with deep reverence and a strong sense of continuity.
Cultural Prominence and Family Legacy
The Mallick family enjoys a long-standing connection with Bengali art and cinema. The celebrated actor Ranjit Mallick and his daughter, popular film star Koel Mallick, belong to this family and actively take part in the rituals each year. Their presence has naturally brought more public attention to this intimate, heritage-rich celebration, making it one of the most talked-about bonedi bari Pujas in South Kolkata.
The Distinctive Charm of Mallick Bari Puja
What makes the Mallick Bari Puja truly special is its authenticity and spiritual warmth. The rituals, chants, and traditional décor inside the courtyard evoke an atmosphere reminiscent of old Bengal. Despite the changing urban landscape around it, the Mallick family continues to uphold the sanctity and elegance of their customs.
For heritage enthusiasts and culture lovers who embark on a Bonedi Bari Puja Parikrama, Bhawanipore Mallick Bari is often an essential stop — not for grandeur, but for the soulful simplicity and familial devotion it represents.
How Well Known Is This Puja Today?
While not as widely publicized as the large, theme-based pandals of Kolkata, the Bhawanipore Mallick Bari Durga Puja holds a significant place among connoisseurs of Bengal’s traditional celebrations. It is frequently featured in cultural and travel publications such as Outlook Traveller, The Economic Times, and CN Traveller India as one of Kolkata’s iconic family Pujas.
Each year, photographs of the family’s participation — especially during the Bisarjan (immersion) ceremony — draw admiration across social media and news platforms. The Puja beautifully bridges the old and new, keeping the legacy of Kolkata’s bonedi culture alive in the modern age.
In Conclusion
The Bhawanipore Mallick Bari Durga Puja is not about extravagance or spectacle — it’s about faith, lineage, and continuity. In a city renowned for its festive creativity, this Puja stands apart as a reminder of Kolkata’s cultural roots. Visiting the Mallick Bari during Durga Puja offers a glimpse into Bengal’s timeless devotion and the enduring elegance of its aristocratic traditions.
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How to Reach Bhawanipore Mallick Bari
The Bhawanipore Mallick Bari is conveniently located at 25A, C, Mohini Mohon Road, near Jadubabur Bazar, South Kolkata – 700020. It lies in one of Kolkata’s most accessible and historic neighbourhoods — Bhawanipore — which is well connected by road and metro.
- By Metro: The nearest metro station is Netaji Bhavan Metro Station on Kolkata Metro’s Blue Line (North–South Corridor). From there, the Mallick Bari is just a short 5–7 minute walk via Ashutosh Mukherjee Road and Mohini Mohon Road.
- By Road: Visitors can easily reach the location from key South Kolkata hubs such as Elgin Road, Hazra, and Kalighat. Auto-rickshaws and yellow taxis are readily available throughout the area.
- From Howrah or Sealdah: One can take a metro from either Howrah Metro Station or Sealdah Metro Station directly to Netaji Bhavan for a quick and comfortable commute.
- Nearby Landmarks: The site is close to the Jadubabur Bazar crossing and the well-known Netaji Bhavan Museum, which makes it easy to locate for first-time visitors.
During Durga Puja, the area sees a steady flow of visitors, but the approach roads remain relatively manageable compared to the city’s large pandals — making Bhawanipore Mallick Bari an easily accessible heritage stop for culture lovers and pilgrims alike.