Shopping Guide: What to buy, where & how

With just 16 days to go for Durga Puja, the final leg of festive shopping frenzy has begun. If you are yet to figure out your Pujo lookbook, we have got you sorted. From breezy co-ord sets to regal silk saris, statement shoes to accessories, the season’s fashion is all about mixing comfort, tradition, and glamour. Here’s a quick guide to what’s trending this season, where to buy them, and activities you can try to make your shopping spree more exciting.

Saris, mojris, clutches
Pujo fashion this year blends comfort with tradition. “Breezy yet stylish co-ord sets are selling well,” says shopkeeper Md Shahzad from Shreeram Arcade. Silks saris remain faves, while chiffon saris, mojris, embellished sneakers, waist belts, clutches & gold replica jewellery complete the look. People are also buying glamorous, functional accessories.

Eat, shop, repeat

• Dakshinapan & Gariahat: Ideal for sari shopping and coffee sipping. You can find some amazing phuchka around here too
• Shopping malls: You name it, you have it at the food court – Sushi, burger, coffee, pizza & more
• College Street, Park Street: The classic Indian Coffee House and British-era restos on Park Street
• Festive pop-ups: Phuchka, kathi rolls, fish fry

70% rise in street food sales is seen during the Pujo shopping season

Buy the latest trends:

• Embellished, breezy three-piece co-ord sets
• Fendi saris
• Chirala, Gorod, Mangalgiri saris
• Angrakha anarkalis
• Embellished jackets
• Ethnic dhoti co-ord sets with capes
• Abstract print kurtas
• Denim dresses
• Concho waist belts and waist chains
• Chunky loafers
• Embroidered sneakers
• Mirror work potlis
• Sequinned and embroidered clutch bags

When to shop

• 11am to 1pm: Best time, moderate crowds, relaxed browsing
• 3pm to 5pm: Post-lunch lull, especially good for malls and boutiques
• 6pm to 9pm: Peak rush hour. Avoid this window unless you enjoy Pujo chaos
• Last week before Mahalaya: Mad rush everywhere. Only mornings are manageable

10k-15k steps is what a typical Pujo shopping day adds up to

Top picks under ₹1000
What? Oxidised silver jewellery
Where: Dakshinapan, Gariahat, New Market
Cost? ₹350–500
What? Potli bags
Where: Gariahat,
New Market and Shreeram Arcade
Cost? ₹600–800
What? Festive blouses
Where: Dakshinapan, Gariahat and shopping malls
Cost? ₹700–1000
What? Nail art kit
Where: New Market, Vardaan Market

Pics: Anindya Saha & Surja Mondal
Model: Dolly Singh
Location: Le Pakshi, Dakshinapan and South City Mall