By Pamela Nandi | Sep 23, 2025

Durga Puja in Kolkata is always magical – but this year, it came with a beautiful twist.

What started as a festive staycation at Novotel Kolkata Hotel and Residences turned into something far more personal… a celebration filled with the sweetest birthday surprises that I’ll cherish forever.

From the moment I checked in, there was a sense of warmth, thoughtfulness, and attention to detail that made everything feel special.

Mornings Done Right at The Square

Waking up to a breakfast spread at their signature restaurant The Square is an experience in itself. This isn’t just breakfast—it’s a culinary journey. From local nostalgia to global comfort, every plate tells a story.

• Kolkata classics: Muri with Aloo Chop & Chanachur

• North Indian indulgence: Parathas, pooris & curries

• Fresh bakery delights: Oven-warm breads & pastries

• Continental comforts: Omelettes, hash browns & more

• Fresh fruits & juices: A burst of colour and health

• The perfect ending: Malai Toast with a comforting cup of chai

Because here, mornings aren’t rushed – they’re savoured.

Durgabarir Mahabhoj – A Pujo Feast Like No Other

This festive season, at The Square brings alive the spirit of Durga Puja with a grand Bangaliana Thali.

• Fluffy luchis & crispy bhajas
• Soulful daal & alu posto
• Chanar dalna bursting with flavour
• Creamy chingri malaikari
• Rich mutton kosha & homely chicken kosha
• Mishti doi & traditional Bengali sweets

Available: 28th Sep – 2nd Oct
Timings: Lunch (12 PM – 4 PM) | Dinner (7 PM – 12 AM)

Because Pujo isn’t just about pandal hopping – it’s about coming together over food that feels like home.

Evenings at Cafe Joy – Where Chai Meets Charcha

After a long day of festivities, I found my perfect pause at Cafe Joy.

Picture this: rain outside, warmth inside, and a cup of comfort in hand.

• A bold, smooth cappuccino made with Blue Tokai Coffee Roasters

• Crispy vegetable pakoras – perfect for the weather

• The ultimate Kolkata favourite: a classic egg roll

But beyond the menu, what truly stands out is the vibe – conversations, laughter, and the joy of slowing down.

A Quick Pause at the Spa – Meghavi Wellness Spa

Amid the Pujo rush, the spa felt like a much-needed escape. Soft aromas, calming ambience, and expert hands worked their magic—melting away all the fatigue from pandal hopping and celebrations. The therapy was deeply relaxing, with just the right balance of pressure and soothing oils.

In just one session, I went from tired to completely refreshed.

Sometimes, all you need is a quiet pause in the middle of the festivities.

Dinner Theatre at Ministry Of Kebabs

If there’s one experience that stole the show, it was dinner at Ministry Of Kebabs. This isn’t just a meal – it’s live culinary storytelling.

From the moment the kebab trolley arrived, the magic began:

• Flames dancing across the tawa, sigree & tandoor
• Chefs crafting each dish right in front of you

The highlights?

• Juicy Ajwa Kalmi Kebab
• Perfectly charred Murgh Tikka
• Melt-in-your-mouth Mutton Galouti
• Fiery Guntur Chilli Prawns
• Flavourful Amritsari Fish Tikka & Tawa Fish
• Legendary Kakori & Chapli Kebabs

And just when you think it can’t get better:

• Aromatic Chicken Biryani

• Rich, slow-cooked Nihari

• Creamy Daal Makhani with assorted breads

Ending on a sweet note with Kulfi Falooda—because no great story ends without dessert.

A refreshing glass of Mohanbaten ka Sharbat welcomes every guest—a thoughtful touch that sets the tone.

More Than a Stay – An Emotion

This stay wasn’t just about luxury or food.

It was about:

• Thoughtful hospitality
• Celebrating festivals differently
• Creating moments that turn into memories

A heartfelt thank you to the team at Novotel Kolkata Hotel and Residences – for hosting this staycation and making my birthday so incredibly special.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking to:

• Take a break from pandal crowds
• Indulge in festive flavours
• Or simply celebrate life’s little moments

This is where you need to be.