Bollywood Meets Kolkata: Deepika Padukone’s Love for the Legendary 120-Year-Old Kolkata Fuchka Spot

In Kolkata, Fuchka is more than food—it’s a way of life. It rivals the city’s passions for politics, football, and cinema, uniting people in...

In Kolkata, Fuchka is more than food—it’s a way of life. It rivals the city’s passions for politics, football, and cinema, uniting people in their love for this simple yet extraordinary snack. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, a trip to Shankar Pandit’s stall at Vivekananda Park is more than a culinary experience—it’s a taste of Kolkata’s soul. This stall has managed to capture the heart of Deepika Padukone (Deepika Padukone is an internationally acclaimed actor, fashion and youth icon and mental health ambassador from India).

 This 120-year-old Fuchka stall is actor Deepika Padukone's favourite in Kolkata. The Shankar Pandit's (Durga Pandit's husband) Fuchka Stall near Vivekananda Park has become a culinary institution in the city, celebrated for its authentic and flavorful offerings. Its fame skyrocketed when Deepika Padukone, during her appearance on the popular Kapil Sharma Show, revealed it as her go-to Fuchka spot in Kolkata. This star-studded endorsement only confirmed what locals have long cherished—that Shankar Pandit’s Fuchkas are a league of their own.

Shankar Pandit runs the famous stall, continuing a legacy built by his late wife, Durga Pandit. Durga was a pioneer as one of the first women in the Fuchka business in Kolkata. She tragically passed away in a road accident in 2014, but her reputation for exceptional quality, including claims of purified water for Tetul jol (imli paani/spicy tamarind water) remains unmatched. Today, Shankar Pandit and their son carry forward this legacy. For generations, the stall has remained a beloved part of Kolkata’s food scene, delighting everyone from everyday food lovers to Bollywood icons. It’s more than just street food; it’s a slice of history served with a burst of flavor that defines the essence of Kolkata.

A Tale of 200,000 Vendors

Kolkata boasts approximately 200,000 Fuchka sellers across its vast 201 square kilometers, making it nearly impossible to pin down a single “best” vendor. Each stall has its loyal patrons, and every neighborhood its own Fuchka champion. 

The Unique Flavor of Kolkata Phuchka

Kolkata’s Fuchka sets itself apart from its regional counterparts. Unlike pani puri in Mumbai, which often uses white peas, or golgappa in North India, which leans on chickpeas, Kolkata’s version features spicy mashed potatoes. The balance of flavors, from the tangy tamarind water to the hint of lime, creates an explosion of taste that keeps people coming back for more. For many Bengalis, Fuchka is more than just a snack—it’s a shared experience. Families have fond memories of neighborhood vendors bringing their carts to the para (locality), sparking friendly competitions over who could eat the most. These moments, filled with laughter and spice, are etched into the hearts of generations.

The Famous Fuchka Hotspots- Customization is key in Kolkata

·       Vivekananda Park: A hub of iconic vendors, including the famous Dilip Da and his family.

·       Lake Kalibari: A favorite among South Kolkata residents.

·       Camac Street & Victoria Memorial: Popular with office-goers and tourists.

·       Chacha-Bhatija Stall (Central Kolkata): Run by Amarnath Shaw, this North Kolkata gem is over 40 years old.

·       Dakshinapan Complex: Known for innovations like alur dom fuchka.

·   North Kolkata (Muktarambabu Street): Features the iconic Chacha-Bhatija Stall by Amarnath Shaw.

·   Fuchkas transcended its humble roots, inspiring a range of innovative twists. At upscale restaurants, you’ll find molecular gastronomy versions like balam phuchkari, where imli water is infused with a dropper. In other regions, adventurous chefs have created Fuchka ice cream, green-colored fuchkas made with coriander.

 

Kolkata’s Fuchkavendors have a knack for innovation. Beyond the classic Fuchka, you’ll find:

·       Churmur: Crushed Fuchkas mixed with the same potato stuffing, spices, and tamarind water.

·       Dahi Fuchka: A refreshing twist with yogurt and sweet jaggery sauce, topped with crispy sevai.

·       Alur Dom Fuchka: Spicy potato curry stuffed into the crispy shells

·       Green Fuchka: Made with Coriander

·        There’s even a Jain-friendly version at Triangular Park, where mashed bananas replace potatoes.

 

A Unique and Inspiring Journey of Phuchkawala: From Crisis to Culinary Fame

 The COVID-19 pandemic brought unprecedented challenges for many, but for siblings Debjyoti Saha (28) and Jyotirmoyee Saha (22) from Khardaha, West Bengal, it became a turning point in their lives. With resilience, innovation, and a passion for food, they turned their financial struggles into a thriving business, aptly named Phuchkawala.

A Family in Crisis

Debjyoti, an engineer by profession, lost his job during the lockdown, leaving the family in financial turmoil. Jyotirmoyee, a college student at the time, was also struggling to cover her educational expenses. With limited savings of just ₹15,000, the siblings decided to take a bold step into the food industry. Their father had purchased a shop a decade earlier, which had remained unused. The siblings saw this as an opportunity to start their business. Despite initial skepticism from their father about selling Fuchkas (pani puri), they were determined to create something extraordinary.

The Birth of Phuchkawala

On 18 October 2020, during Durga Pujo, the siblings launched Fuchka wala. They decided to give the traditional street food a modern twist. Starting with seven varieties of Fuchkas, they gradually expanded their menu to include over 25 unique offerings. From the classic tangy Fuchka to innovative creations like chicken-filled Fuchkas, corn cheese Fuchkas, and Bangladeshi Fuchkas with egg fillings, they brought something new to the table. Sweet options like chocolate and ice cream Fuchkas became instant hits, catering to diverse palates.

Innovation Meets Determination

The initial launch was a success, with remarkable sales boosting their confidence. However, the subsequent lockdown posed new challenges. To adapt, the siblings started home delivery services. They personally delivered orders in the beginning, later partnering with food aggregators to expand their reach.

Growth and Recognition

Today, Phuchkawala operates multiple outlets across West Bengal, employs over 25 staff members, and supports several families. It has become a steady source of income for the family, ensuring financial stability and funding Jyotirmoyee’s education. Jyotirmoyee’s entrepreneurial spirit was recently recognized when she received the Youngest Woman Entrepreneur award from AEMPL and GEM Enterprises in Dubai. This accolade is a testament to the siblings’ hard work and ingenuity.

An Inspiring Journey

 The story of Phuchkawala is one of resilience, innovation, and passion. From facing financial uncertainty to creating a successful business that employs and inspires others, Debjyoti and Jyotirmoyee have shown what determination can achieve. Their journey is a reminder that even in the face of adversity, it’s possible to carve out a path to success. As Phuchkawala continues to grow, it remains a shining example of how a simple idea, executed with heart and effort, can transform lives.

A Silent Hero                            

The Innovation Never Ends. While dishes like rolls and chowmein often steal the limelight, Fuchka remains the silent hero of Kolkata’s street food scene. Its simplicity, adaptability, and sheer flavor make it irreplaceable. Whether it’s a neighborhood cart or an upscale interpretation, Fuchka continues to win hearts across generations. Each vendor is an artist, and each stall a shrine. While it’s impossible to name the ultimate Fuchka king, one thing is certain: wherever you are in Kolkata, a memorable Fuchka experience is just around the corner.

 

**** All Pictures are taken all internet and Shankar Pandit's Stall pic from Times Now.*****