Mishti, memories and more: Harpal on West Bengal

For Bengalis, Durga Puja is not just a festival; instead, it is the time when Maa returns home from her in-laws after a year.

- ROUSHAN CHATTERJEE

Naturally, families prepare as if their daughter is coming back: cleaning homes and kitchens, shopping for new clothes, and setting aside everyday worries. For a few days, life revolves around addas over plates of luchis, the aroma of bhog, and the joy of hosting loved ones with warmth.

This spirit came alive as Borosil kicked off the festive season at Shoppers Stop, where the store turned into a lively hub of Pujar anondo. Customers explored a festive-ready range, from cookware and glassware to storage and other appliances.

Adding to the celebration, celebrity Chef Harpal Singh Sokhi prepared a sweet dish for the audience and personally served it.

Speaking at the event, Barnali Shankar, VP of Marketing at Borosil, said, "As a Bengali, Durga Puja is the most special time of the year for me. It's about being present in the little moments, the laughter, and the togetherness."

At the end of the event, Chef Harpal Singh Sokhi engaged in an exclusive conversation with The Statesman.

Q. How does it feel to return to West Bengal?

Bengal is like my hometown to me. I was born and raised in Kharagpur. The addas, the schooling, the culture-everything is still attached to me. I feel like a son of Bengal, and that's an amazing feeling.

Q. You once wanted to be an engineer. How did you end up becoming a chef?