Pujo, cricket double the joy for city hotels, resorts

Durga Puja earning the UNESCO intangible heritage tag has come as a boon for Kolkata’s hospitality sector. Hotels and resorts are filling up fast, with guests flying down to experience the essence of Pujo. We speak to stakeholders about their festive season plans.
WORLD CUP & PUJO
Cricket fans are doubly excited, as Eden Garden is set to host World Cup matches right after Pujo.“With five matches lined up here in October and November, we have registered a high occupancy rate during that period,” says Subhash Sinha, GM, The Westin Kolkata.
STAYCATIONS ON THE RISE
For even Kolkata residents, the Pujo holidays offer a perfect opportunity to take a break from urban chaos. “We organise a bonedi bari Pujo here to offer guests with a customised experience. We’re fully booked already,” says Ajay Rawla, owner & curator, Rajbari Bawali. Arnab Chatterjee, general manager of Taj Bengal adds, “There has been an increase in the number of local residents opting for staycations during Pujo.”
"We have a healthy occupancy during Durga Puja. Moreover, as our location is close to markets and several Pujo pandals, it will help our guests save time commuting"
– Vishal Sharma, GM, Vivanta Kolkata
Our festive guest list includes domestic and international tourists looking for an immersive experience. There are group bookings too
– Meghdut Roychowdhury, founder, Offbeat CCU
CLOSE TO ROOTS
For most, Pujo is synonymous with Bengal’s culture. And that’s exactly what the hotels are offering guests. “We’ll serve a Bengali menu & organise cultural shows,” says Manoshi Roychowdhury, owner, Jhore Jole Jongole - Eco Resort, Jharkhali. Darshan Dudhoria, director, Bari Kothi, adds, “From guided storytelling sessions to connecting with historical roots of the festival, it’ll be an immersive experience for our guests.”