Bengali Actor Jisshu Sengupta Reminisces Beloved Durga Puja Traditions

As Durga Puja approaches in late September 2025, Bengali actor Jisshu Sengupta is feeling nostalgic about the beloved festival he grew up with in Kolkata. Jisshu, who was raised immersed in Durga Puja traditions, says the 5-day celebration is impossible to replicate anywhere else. He explains that Durga Puja is about the larger community coming together, with families visiting each other's homes and local pandals (temporary shrines).

Jisshu, a self-proclaimed 80s and 90s kid, reveals that his mother was even a secretary of the local Durga Puja committee, giving him a unique insider's perspective on the festivities. The actor admits it's rare for him to celebrate Durga Puja in Mumbai, where he is often based for work. In fact, he once had to rush back to Kolkata on Ashtami (the eighth day) morning after an overnight shoot, just to attend the ritual bhog (community feast) at the pandal.

Jisshu also shares that his co-star Kajol, with whom he worked on the web series The Trial 2, is equally passionate about Durga Puja. The two have discussed the festival many times, with Kajol even inviting Jisshu to her Puja celebrations in Mumbai. However, Jisshu says he would prefer Kajol to join him in Kolkata if she's available during the 5 days.

For Jisshu, Durga Puja is as much about the vibrant pandals and their unique themes as it is about the delectable food. He recommends trying the special Ashtami bhog, as well as local delicacies like chilli chicken with paratha and the vegetarian combo of luchi (puffed bread) with cholar dal and dum aloo. The actor also confesses his love for the iconic Kolkata street food, phuchka.

As Kolkata gears up for its biggest annual celebration, Jisshu Sengupta's nostalgic memories remind us that Durga Puja is more than just a festival - it's a homecoming, a feast, and a city-wide celebration all rolled into one.