Seagull Books is a publication venture that was established in the year 1982 in Kolkata. The pioneer behind this brand is Mr Naveen Kishore, who is a theater artist. It was his aim to bring out the best of theaters in the form of books and spread its knowledge across the world. The collections include fiction as well as non-fiction books. The Seagull Foundation for the Arts is actively involved in publishing reading materials in the field of art, culture and media. Seagull School of Publishing offers a professional course in editing and book design. It also offers fellowships to aspiring publishers. Seagull Art presents art exhibitions to show-case the work of senior artists. Thus, this brand works towards preserving India’s ancient culture and heritage.
Story is one of the leading bookstores in Kolkata that was started in the year 1973. Apart from books they have a number of stationary products, toys, gift items, chocolates, gift vouchers and hobby items. In short it sells everything that has to do with books and book lovers. Reading enthusiasts can pick up fiction or non-fiction work. Novels, classic and epic books are easily available. The mastermind behind this excellent store is Mr Sidharth Pansari, who worked with a belief that you do not always need pen and paper to write stories. Over the years, Story has been proud to have contributed a lot to the retail and realty industry in the East of India.
Tucked away in a bylane of Kolkata, just past the hustle and bustle of Ballygunge phari, Karma Kettle is a quiet oasis. A cafe and tea boutique, this tea-lover's haven invites you to linger over a perfectly brewed cup in a serene atmosphere. Wood-panelled walls, wrought iron furniture draped in vibrant prints, and a string of fairy lights create a welcoming space. Sip on delicate first flushes from the hills of Darjeeling, robust cups of Benares chai or savor an aromatic blend of strawberries, fennel and rose in their signature Keya. The staff recommendations are spot on, and they are well versed in what's available, including where the teas are sourced from and how they are blended. Every afternoon, the cafe serves High Tea, a mix of innovative Indian flavors and classic tea-time eats like moreish finger sandwiches and mini desserts. Adjacent to the seating area, the tea boutique is the ideal place to pick up a unique blend or an old favorite. The passion and love poured into this venture shine through, making it a tea enthusiast's delight.
If the thought of books makes you smile, this lane is going to lead to some serious excitement! Listed under 'Famous Landmarks of India' by Time magazine in 2007, this street is lined with books, books and more books. Considering that Presidency College, Hindu School and Calcutta University are located here, there is an abundance of research materials, school textbooks and study journals available at regular prices, but students who can't afford it can always choose to photocopy entire books or required pages. However, for those who wish to find great bargains on various fiction and non-fiction titles, there is no better place than here in all of Kolkata; just make sure you put your negotiation skills to the test. Second-hand bookshops sell everything from classics, rare titles as well as recent additions. In fact, if you're unable to find what you want, the shopkeepers would be more than happy to order it for you! This place is always abuzz with youngsters, college groups and tourists alike. The book shops shut down by five, after which you can walk to the famed Indian Coffee House for a steaming cup of coffee as you browse through your bargains.
If you're in the New Market area, the Kashmir Government House Emporium is one of the best places to do some souvenir shopping. However, as the name suggests, this store houses traditional art and crafts not from Bengal, but Kashmir. Nevertheless, everything on display here is worth coveting. The list of products includes the famous Pashmina shawls, Kashmiri carpets, intricately carved wooden furniture, Namda, copperware and traditional wear. And if all the beauty in this store makes you want to visit Kashmir, help is waiting under the same roof. The tour agency, which is part of the store, provides information and books about tours to Kashmir. This shop is a must-visit for those looking for cultural collectibles.
Kolkata is famous for its divine sweets - rosogulla, mishti doi and sandesh to name a few. Balaram Mullick & Radharam Mullick is a sweet shop in the city, featuring Bengali classics as well as those with a modern twist. From the traditional jalbhora and taalshash to the more adventurous mango doi and chocolate doi, this sweet tooth's delight promises a sinful experience for all.