A one-stop-shop to take a slice of Bengal to anywhere in the world, Biswa Bangla makes it easy to buy handlooms, local art and crafts, West Bengal tea and jaggery, plus little souvenirs to remind you of the state.
Whether you know your textiles, and know exactly what to get, or you're like me who can't really tell the difference between Begumpuri and Shantipuri, the Biswa Bangla stores across Kolkata will sort you out when it comes to anything from West Bengal -- from handlooms to home decor. If you're looking for something traditional to gift someone, or add to your own living room, these stores stock plenty of Dokra craft for simple and charming folk motifs, Bankura’s terracotta work that includes intricately carved elephants and even modern ceramic pottery for a colonial (hmm) touch.
Madhurkathi mats, jute coaster and Sheetalpaati bags are also on offer, for those who love to keep it natural and local. What we love most at this store though are the handloom sarees. Prices start at INR 1,500 for simpler cottons and can go up for INR 45,000 for the Shantipuris and silk sarees. Ideal to stand out in a crowd, especially if you'll be wearing these outside of Bengal.
They also have liquid jaggery, teas from Darjeeling (first or second flush, mostly), mustard, and little trinkets and postcards to remind you why you love Kolkata so much.
