'Butt' on Wheels

"Four wheels move the body. Two wheels move the soul."-Unknown

Adventure motorcycle rides are considered to be the perfect activity for those who live their life on edge. An enthralling trip to exciting destinations of India is the perfect option for those who like to confront challenges and handle them with ease. If you’re one of them, then you should join such adventure rides to explore famous destinations.
When it comes to adventure motorcycle trips, Ladakh and Himalaya are the first preferred names that tend to strike the minds of experienced bikers. They are the most suitable places to conduct motorcycle adventure tours in India.

This is mainly because of the routes and the common passes that people get to cover in such mountainous regions. Some of these passes include the famous Nathu La, Khardung La, Rohtang and Bara-Lacha . These famous passes are situated at high altitudes near or at the Himalayan range and are used by riders during adventure motorcycle vacations.

Apart from scary passes, they are also known for rugged and steep roads where riding becomes more of a dare for riders. Besides, the unpredictable weather conditions and heavy snow fall are enough to create an exciting adventure for riders during their trip. This is also one of the reasons why some mountain routes are accessible only for 4 to 6 months throughout a year.

Before embark on your motorcycle tour, you should take care of a few things, so that you can fully enjoy your journey. Choosing your ride wisely is the most important thing. A lot of people think a long motorcycle trip means getting themselves a Royal Enfield Bullet. While, the Royal Enfield motorcycles are great for long rides, it's recommended that you ride a motorcycle you are comfortable with and not a motorcycle that others recommend. Make sure that you have good riding experience on this type of motorcycle so that you will know how to control it in tough conditions. 

Do your research and find the one you can easily handle and take care of. Bikes with a softer seat, different handlebar, sharp headlights, and guards are better when you are going on an off-road trip. A 'cool looking bike' shouldn't be the only matter of concern for you. To have a smooth and successful road trip, having the right ride is crucial.

“The Brand is not important, the fact you ride is.”

These are the few bikes which are generally preferred at road trips:

Royal Enfield Himalayan-

The Royal Enfield Himalayan is the least-priced adventure motorcycle in the country. Also, it's the most modern Royal Enfield model you can buy today. It's powered by a 411-cc, single-cylinder engine that outputs 24 bhp and 32 Nm. The Himalayan comes with an onboard compass that helps the rider navigate efficiently. The Himalayan offers a high ground clearance of 220 mm and high-set exhaust, which helps it easily wade through deep water crossings.

Royal Enfield Bullet-

The Royal Enfield Bullet has been among the most iconic motorcycles around. While it's too fast or too sharp in the corners, it offers a lot of old world charm and a relaxed riding position. It's powered by a 346-cc, single-cylinder engine that outputs 19.8 bhp and 28 Nm. It's also available with a 499-cc motor that offers 27.2 bhp and 41.3 Nm. Both the motors offer decent low-end torque, which makes it easy for this motorcycle to tackle steep inclines. The torque also helps the rider carry a lot of luggage.

Bajaj Pulsar 220F-

While the Bajaj Pulsar 220F is at the fag-end of its career, it still makes for a decent long-distance tourer. It offers a punchy 220-cc motor that has been refined by its manufacturer over the last few years. It outputs 20.8 bhp and 19.12 Nm. The 220 is also pretty well priced and costs less than Rs. 1 lakh (on-road). It also offers an excellent headlamp and decent high-speed stability.

Kawasaki Versys 650-

The Versys (an amalgamation of Versatile and System) is a bike that really lives up to its name. Once the Japanese company realised that there was a growing need for adventure/tourers in the market, they created the Versys. It is a perfect blend of tourer and adventurer which is powered by the same 650cc engine from the Ninja. In addition to that, it comes with dual ABS, adjustable suspension and the most comfortable riding position ever on a Kawasaki.

Triumph Tiger 800-

One of the most well-known adventure bikes across the world, the Triumph Tiger is now making waves in the Indian market. There are 8 variants of the Tiger – 4 adventure focused and 4 touring focused. The Triumph Tiger carries the invulnerable tag of reliability which when coupled with features like traction control, switchable ABS, adjustable seat height and the legendary Triumph 800cc triple, makes for the ideal touring / adventure bike.

Suzuki V-Strom-

The V-Strom is available in two variants – one with a 650 cc engine and the other with a 1000 cc engine. Both engines are extremely refined, as is expected from a Suzuki, and the bike is a very capable adventurer. Apart from that comical beak thing under the headlamp though, the V-Strom is a very good tourer and adventurer that can be ridden in rough terrain as easily as on a smooth highway.

Ducati Multistrada 1200-

Leave it to the Italians to fit a superbike-spec engine in an adventure bike and that’s exactly what they’ve done with the newest Multistrada. Powered by a massive 1200 cc engine that produces a whopping 162 PS of power and 136 Nm of torque, the Multistrada is the best way to cover distances regardless of the road’s conditions. Add to that a ridiculously long list of best-in-class features and you have your dream bike for your next road trip, provided of course you can shell out the money that all Ducatis demand.

Bajaj Dominar-

The flagship motorcycle from Bajaj Auto Ltd has been rather quick to establish itself in the bike market. The Dominar is a feature-laden offering that offers some excellent features like the full-LED headlamp. It's powered by a 373.3-cc motor that finds its roots in the KTM Duke 390's powerplant. However, the motor has been re-tuned to offer 35 PS of max power and 35 Nm of peak torque. The Dominar offers a very comfortable riding position that is just correct for 'sports touring'. It's easily among the best long-distance touring motorcycles that you can buy for roughly Rs. 1.5 lakh.

·                                        Never touch someone else's bike without asking first.

For many people, a motorcycle is like a girlfriend. You wouldn't just walk up to someone's girlfriend and grab them - unless you have really good medical insurance - and the same applies to someone's bike. Aside from the fact it's considered incredibly rude, people may assume you're trying to steal a bike instead of just feel it up. If the owner isn't around to ask permission, you'll just have to ogle the bike instead of touching it.

·     Pack light

You can find a variety of luggage carriers for motorbikes available today. The best ones are saddlebags, which can be easily fixed on the sides or back seat of the bike. Other great bag ideas include tail-bags and tank bags, which include magnets to hug your tank right away.

In addition to choosing the right bag, you must also decide on your luggage very carefully. When going on a road trip on a motorbike always prefer packing light. Get disposable stuff so you can discard it after use. Carry sachets instead of bottles for most of the things. Avoid carrying a lot of changes of clothes either

Make a list and prioritize all the essential items before you are set to pack.  

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·     Dress appropriately

For road trips - especially on a motorbike - dressing appropriate is imperative. Always try wearing riding pants, a comfortable t-shirt, ankle boots, a full-face helmet, and bring the jacket you feel most comfortable with.       

If you are expecting a bumpy ride on two wheels, it's best to pick elbow and knee guards for more protection. Wear fitted clothes as baggy gear can cause discomfort for long distance riding. 

“Being a biker is more than riding a bike you feel it in your heart and soul.”

·        

    Always wear a helmet

Invest in a good helmet. Do not buy a cheap one to save a few bucks. They’re not going to be much help if, God forbid, you crash. Try out different helmets to see the one that is right and don’t forget to fasten the straps.

A couple of must know pointers would be – Helmets need to be full-faced. There are half faced helmets that look cool but that jaw won’t be smiling in case you suffer a fall. Choose one that fits you well.  Too loose a helmet will offer little protection. Too tight will result in discomfort, painful earlobes and so on. Always keep your visor clean. All that dust and grime that settles on the visor as you ride will affect  your visibility.

·    Service your bike

Long-distance motorcycle touring will demand not only a lot from you as a rider but also from your machine. When riding to remote places any fault with the mechanics is not the thing you want. Finding a service centre or even a decent mechanic may be a task in itself. Avoid it. Get your bike serviced.

At regular intervals, you should always keep an eye on clutch plates, Air filter spark/spark plug, Clutch/Accelerator/Brake cables, Tires, Oil levels and get them replaced when needed. These are essential to a long and healthy life of your steed.

While other checks that  for a  motorbike touring are-

-Suspension: If you are riding to some remote locations chances are the roads might be very bumpy and will take a toll on the luggage as well as your behind

-Wheel alignment: A misaligned wheel will affect your control on the bike and resulting in a disaster Tire pressure: Very important for the bike to get a good grip on the road and ensuring a smooth ride as well.

-Tire pressure: Very important for the bike to get a good grip on the road and ensuring a smooth ride as well.

·     Ride as if all car drivers are trying to kill you-

It's not just right of way car drivers seem to neglect if motorcycles are involved. Actions like signaling before a lane change, staying out of a motorcyclist’s lane and not cutting off motorcycles are all things cagers fail at spectacularly. If you're on a bike, even if someone is looking directly at you, assume you are invisible. Even if they do manage to see you, you should still assume trying to run you over will be their next move.

·         Stay hydrated

Factors like 'hydration' often take a backseat when considering all important aspects of a motorbike road trip. You need to be backed up for proper hydration while on the go. Hydration is essential and if stopping for water bothers you, consider investing in a hydration pack. The water bottle in a bag not only keeps the water cold but also comes with a long tube that you can use for drinking water without stopping.

Keeping yourself hydrated is very important to be on top of your game.  

·         

·         Take breaks

You may need more rest while on a biking road trip than you usually take. Sitting on a bike for long hours without a break can cause saddle sores. Know when your body and bike are asking you to stop for a break.

Avoid going overboard with it as it will only lengthen your trip and eventually make it frustrating. Use the break to rest and also to check if you need to refuel your tank and if your bike is in good conditions. This will save you from unexpected difficult circumstances.  

·         Don't lose the map

This is the perfect time to embrace technology and rely on GPS if you are not good at remembering roads. If you want to take this to the next level, consider investing in a helmet with Bluetooth so that it can provide you GPS directions.

In case you are traveling to remote areas with no network, carrying the hardcopy of maps can be really helpful. It can at least give you a fair sense of the area you are in. Also, asking locals for directions is better than getting lost.

·         Eat at weird times.

Everyone and their dog eats around 8 a.m., noon and 6 p.m. So if you want to get in and out of restaurants quickly, plan ahead so you’re not hungry at those times.

·         Don't ride upset, angry, or in a hurry.

Riding a motorcycle requires concentration and a level head. If you're upset, pissed off or distracted, you're going to start making choices that could leave you as modern art decorating the pavement. When you're furious about something, calm down before you get on your bike. Also, racing to get somewhere may just result in you being raced to the hospital, so be willing to be a few minutes late instead of being dead.

·         Carry a spare key.

Hide your spare somewhere on your bike using a zip-tie or duct tape, or trade keys with a traveling companion.

·         MAINTAIN AN OPTIMAL RIDING SPEED

This is a case of discretion. Ride at a speed which you are comfortable with and most importantly will have complete control of the machine. Preferably, find a speed of 55-65 km an hour an ideal one. It works perfectly for me. Within, you can very well control the bike in case of sudden need to apply brakes,  and at the same time enjoy the views on the road. Also, end up in covering a good amount of distance at the end of the day.

You’ll sometimes encounter a hot head on the road trying to challenge you to a race or simply piss you off with his speed. Do not ride to crush his ego. You might end up crashing your head.

·         Set yourself up for a quick getaway.

If you’re nearing the end of your riding day, you can set yourself up for a quick getaway in the morning by riding to the far side of the next city you reach before stopping. This will eliminate time lost in urban traffic the next morning.

“Travelling in cars is like watching a movie, travelling in bike is starring in it.

Use the envelope system to stay organized.

Going on a long, complex trip? Before you leave, prepare one envelope for each day on the road. Mark the outside of each envelope with dates and locations, then stuff them with things like hotel reservation info and lists of things you’d like to see. Instead of juggling your entire stack of literature to find the information you’re looking for, you can just open up that day’s envelope.

·         Look your bike over every morning before hitting the road.

Checking the simple stuff—air pressure, oil level, loose or missing fasteners—only takes a little time, and it can save you from big trouble.  Here’s a great motorcycle pre-ride checklist you can follow.

·       

       Be prepared for unexpected weather

Unlike a car trip, you need to be more cautious of weather conditions when going on a motorcycle road trip. It may start pouring unexpectedly, or the temperature might be higher than normal - ensure that you are prepared to deal with it.

Carrying raincoats and riding gear that provide proper cover for your luggage is a must.

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·    Get those earplugs

Sometimes it can get extremely loud on the highway. So, once you hit the main road, put your earplugs on to avoid extreme pressure on your ears. As an alternative, you can even use headphones and play your favorite music to enjoy your first solo biking road trip.

·         

      Carry all your paper work

Make 2 copies of your insurance, registration, driving license and any other documents that you may need. Usually, most bikes have a small compartment where you can tuck the papers, first aid, and small tools. Put the first set of copies on the bike and the second with your daypack. If you’re riding to some remote areas which require a permit, research all the info about how to get that permit. And carry that too.

Have enough cash

Plan for a day of nothing-

On a long tour, plan for at least one day per week of doing nothing. Time is the ultimate luxury; it can mean the difference between a vacation and an endurance run.

Stay motivated

The most exciting part of a motorbike road trip is when you start enjoying it to the core. That's when the experience will become outright beautiful. Feeling tired and frustrated can mess up the entire plan. So, keep the spirit high no matter the circumstances. Though, it is inconvenient to carry cash, have enough of it. Some stores, restaurants or hotels might not accept the particular card you’re carrying. Also in some parts of the world, cards are still not a popular form of payment. Or some are too remote for any kind of internet or telephone connectivity.

When you park your bike next to other bikes, be sure to leave enough room for the other rider to mount up

“No matter how hard your day is your bike will make you feel better.”

Kolkata and it's food

                                          Kolkata and it's food

Kolkata a city of contradictions and confusion. It looks like everybody is out on the streets, going somewhere, and in tremedous hurry still. Although, all the food stalls are surrounded by people gulping down some delicacy or the other. If you're a foodie, you'll be constantly salivating in Kolkata, no matter where you are.

If you ever come across a gathering of people who have moved out of Kolkata, you will notice that their discussions will soon veer towards food. One constant refrain would be about how the street food of their adopted city doesn't match up to what they have left back home. Even if that was 50 years back!

If you ever tell a Bengali you love panipurii, they will certainly convert their discussion telling you how "Phuchka" is delicious. Phuchkas are tiny water-bombs filled with spice and masala, these are probably the cheapest, yet filling item one can find. You might think you'll stop after 4 but end-up eating a truckload! it might fill your stomach but your heart will still be panting for it.

As, Bengali’s are known as the sweetest people and the secret behind it is their love for sweet. A true Bengali will never say no for a sweet. You might have eaten rasgullas all your life but if you haven't had roshogollas in Kolkata, then what's the point? 

Did you tried sondesh? These are sweets decorated with pistachios, almonds and saffron strands and prepared with milk, sugar and paneer, this mishti would simply melt in your mouth. And if you're into flavours, you've got Ice-cream, chocolate and strawberry sondesh too! 

Also, you will find relishing misti doi, this doi beats any sort of frozen yogurt you might have eaten. It's a perfect blend of sugar and milk, cupped together for a tempting treat.

If you really want to taste heaven of sweet you must visit Kolkata during winter, to get Pitha and nolen gurer(kind of jaggery filled in a sweet) sondesh and pitha being made from rice flour, this exquisite item can be both sweet and salty. Depending on the type, they are either fried or steamed. In any case, your taste-buds are in for a treat.

You still doubt why Bengali’s are sweetest people on Earth. 

Also, Bengali’s have a culture of gifting sweets whenever they visit someone's home (let it be frequent) on any occasion if you are confused what to gift "Sweets" is the only solution.

Let me introduce to chanachur is one of a kind. A very spicy-mix of dried ingredients that you would want to munch on, non-stop! and  it is in particular found in every Bengali home and munching chanachur being Bengali’s favourite pass time .

If you are a meat lover we got "Golbarir Kosha Mangsho"(A shop famous for its mutton curry) and it being served with  steamed rice, luchi (puri) and parothas, this mouth-watering, velvety gravy with juicy pieces of meat, is every meat lover's paradise. A must-have!

Another popular food in Kolkata being Mughlai Parotha, these deep fried parothas stuffed with egg and minced meat add the kind of twist that can keep you finger-licking throughout.

Chelo Kebab is another popular platter which every true blue Kolkattan will recommend s and for a reason. It's a composition of mutton seekhs along with chicken kebabs and is served with steamed rice and veggies. Don't forget to surprise yourself with it!

Chicken Kabiraji another popular dish, savour the sublime taste of this unique chicken preparation. Made with minced pieces of chicken, bread crumbs, ginger-garlic and egg, this snack will fill you up for a while.

Did you ever realise what did the bengali have every morning that keep their smile intact for whole day? It's the Kochuri and Jilipi(Jalebi). This popular combo offers the perfect combination of sweet, salt and spice. One lip smacking step away from a happy belly and a big smile! Talking about breakfast Kolkata got a famous place named Tirietti Bazar opens at 5am in the morning.From fresh steaming dumplings and fish sui mais to fishball soups, breaded pork chops, coconut balls, rice and sesame seed sweet balls, sticky rice and even chicken pies, the place serves authentic Chinese fare that are not only lovingly made by home-cooks but are also amazingly sumptuous.

 If you have not visited Tangra till now it's high time you should visit. Chinese food in the city. People often like to visit restaurants like Beijing, Kim Ling Kolkata, Tung Fong, Hakka Village Chinese Restaurant, Big Boss and more.

If anyone line chanas and chickpeas, then we got a dish for you named  Ghugni...this food is just not food prepared at home but also a famous street food which will make you crave for it again.(People like me and my friend who used to  walk 1-2 kms just to have this food).

Telebhaja(oil cooked) is again the most favourite dish(also it is assumed to be an art and people buying houses just  selling this)

It is also a perfect snack with cha/chai, ranging from beguni, phuluri, peyaji, alu’r chop to a variety of sinfully-crunchy, besan (corn-flour) covered street food! One bhaja is just not enough, you have to try them all!(Yes all!).

Indian's love Kathi rolls but guess where its started ? Nizam's are the one who discovered Kathi Roll and also rolls being one of the most scupltious dish you will find in every corner of the street and the price starts from Rs 15 to Rs 200. 

Kolkata Biryani and Chicken Chap is something you will never forget once you have it in Kolkata. Yes, our Kolkata biryani got an aloo in it and an egg too and you cannot match it with other city.

Macher Jhol (Fish Curry) I can assure you, you cannot take a fish out of bengali..wherever we 1st thing we search is fish..yes bengal's can't survive without fish.

Let me tell you intresting stuffs that will never bore you in Kolkata.

Okay, let’s admit it! Commuting in public transport in Kolkata can never bore a person (at times, it can be irritating though). No, the buses aren’t empty and airy (you may perhaps invent a new word to describe the ‘humidity’ and breathlessness experienced in the buses on a hot summer morning) nor do they play lovely music to entertain the travelers on a daily basis. So, what is it that makes it so much fun? Of course, the job is done brilliantly by the conductors and your fellow travelers (perhaps, you too!), with occasional jigs by the traffic sergeants.

If you are a NFS player or you love car racing you must see buses in Kolkata. 

Famous phrases that can't stop you laughing once you are inside bus in Kolkata.

1. Dicchi…eto tara kisher? Last’e nambo! (What’s the hurry? I shall get down at the last stop.)

We Bengalis are a laid back group. The fact gets established again and again every day when the conductor asks for ticket, and 70% of the commuters reply, “Dicchi…eto tara kisher? Last’e nambo!”

Or, better still, “Paliye jacchi naki!?” (Am I running off?!) We—and our antics! Phew

2. An award for anyone who spots a conductor pronouncing “Behala” as it is.

They would casually scream BYALA-BYALA, in their typical way, and provide us with a much needed dose of humor to start off, or end, a typically mundane weekday. (‘Behala’ is a neighborhood in Kolkata).

3. Chala, Chala… Ai sala driver icche kore signal khacche! (Drive, Drive, this bloody driver is deliberately delaying!)

This is the anthem of every other agitated passenger struck in traffic for longer time than usual during the rush hours.

4. Khali gari… khali gari (empty bus)

You may often hear the conductor screaming, “Khali gari, khali gari” even when there aren’t any seats available inside. And, sometimes, you may not even find a proper place to rest your feet…and, yet it is ‘khali’ to the conductors.

5. Pechone egiye jaan… pechone egiye jaan! (Move back)

Ah well! The conductors of the single exit buses always find the bus empty at the back.

So, no matter how claustrophobic it is inside, you may still hear them screaming, “Pechone egiye jaan… pechone egiye jaan!”

6. Aisala case kheyeche! (Bloody, has eaten up a case )(though the translation is itsef funny)

Picking up cars and buses regularly for rash driving or not following the traffic rules is common in Kolkata. The buses may be on different routes, but the exclamation by the passengers’ would be the same everywhere: “Aisala case kheyeche!”

And, in case they feel the traffic sergeant has picked the bus for wrong reasons, they’d say: “Aii, mash’re sheshe haath khali!”(End of the month, don't have money)

7. Aaste ladies kole baccha!

Every single person who has travelled in buses in Kolkata, this phrase is just epic!

8. 100 o’ 500 takar khuchra chahiya lojja diben na (Don’t embarrass us by asking for Rs. 100 or 500 change) and this is inscribed in every bus

Kolkata's trams – A ride through history. The Oldest Running Trams in Asia – Kolkata Tramways. Kolkata is the only Indian City, having an operationaltram network.

Did you ever saw a chess club below a flyover were 100s of people seating and playing chess.

Clusters of men huddle over chess boards under the busy Gariahat flyover, oblivious to the traffic and noise around them. This is the Gariahat Chess Club where for a fee if INR 10 you can become a member and play some pretty intense rounds of chess. Playing games like carrom, ludo and chess on pavements is something very Kolkata — the Left governments had installed carom boards in every nook and gully for one thing. This chess club was just an informal gathering of chess lovers in the area in the late 1980s, before the flyover was built. It took shape of a chess club in 2006 and is now called the Gariahat Chess Club. It has over 100 members — there are people who never miss a day’s play. You can also play caroms here. It’s open to all.

Also, Kolkata is one of the most egalitarian cities in the country — its public space are truly open to all. This chess club reflects that trait with people from all backgrounds coming together to play here — street dwellers, MPhil students, small traders, shopowners, retired professionals, school kids, middle class babus, in fact, many of the players are sons of hawkers who man the popular street stalls in the area.

This spot is also popular as a general hangout joint — friends catching up on their way back from work, sipping tea, people singing or strumming a guitar, beggars and the homeless contemplating life, street kids playing. All this in one of the noisiest, most polluted junctions in the city!

Bengalis and Kolkatans are by nature romantic. They love to recite Tagore whenever got chance. The Princep Ghat is one of the most romantic places in Kolkata. It is a perfect place for meet up with friends, a great hangout place where you can gossip and chat over phuchkas and bhelpuris. It is a perfect place for catching up with your old friends. Boat rides leave from Babu Ghat for 20 minute rides for anything ranging between Rs. 250- 400 with a maximum of 4 people on a boat rowed in an old fashion way by the driver. Ferry rides also leave for as less as Rs 5 per person but that is used more by daily commuters to cross the river Hooghly.

Victoria Memorial 

A testament to the colonial history of Kolkata, this beautiful marble hall is dedicated to the memory of Queen Victoria. Its design echoes that of the Taj Mahal as does its beauty. Perched atop the central dome of the Memorial is an angel figure - The Angel of Victory as well as other allegorical sculptures. Outside the Memorial gates, you can indulge in some street food or take a romantic horse carriage ride around the area. 

Park Street Cemetry  being another popular place in the mid of the city where it has turned out to be an lovers point or a good hangout poiny. The oldest tomb in the cemetery, is that of Mrs Sarah Pearson, who died on September 8, 1768.(I guess you can understand how old it is).

Kolkata diary can never end without telling about Durga Puja..

If you want to experience Kolkata Durga Puja, ideally you should be in the city at least a week before the festival starts so you can see the finishing touches being put on the idols of the goddess. If that's not possible, there are still plenty of other ways to enjoy it -- all night long! Here's the best of them.

The beautifully handcrafted idols of Goddess Durga sure are stunning. The majority of them are crafted in one area -- Kumartuli in north Kolkata, around 30 minutes drive from the city center. The name literally means "potter's locality" and as it suggests, the area was settled by a group of potters.

Durga Puja commences with the invocation of the holy presence of Goddess Durga into the idols. The ritual begins early in the morning, before dawn, with the bathing of a banana tree in the Hooghly River. The banana tree is dressed like a newlywed bride (known as "Kola Bou", the banana bride) in a sari, and used to transport the goddess's energy. The highlight of Durga Puja is no doubt visiting the many different displays (pandals) of Goddess Durga, each with a unique theme or decorative style. This activity is commonly referred to a "pandal hopping". Trust me, the budget and theme is decided on last day of durga puja. As, it takes a lot of time to design those pandals and get artists from different parts of India.

While Kolkata's public Durga pujas tend to get all the attention, the traditional "Bonedi Bari" pujas in the city's palatial old private mansions are also really worth experiencing. The mansions belong to affluent aristocratic zamindar(landowner) families who have been carrying on the pujas for centuries. 

The Kumari Puja is another significant ritual that's performed during the Durga Puja festival. During the festival, Goddess Durga is worshiped in various forms. In this ritual, she's worshiped the form of an innocent young unmarried virgin girl. This serves as reminder that the goddess and her energy are omnipresent in all beings.

After the evening rituals on Ashami, it's traditional for the devotioOn the last day of Durga Puja, known as Dashami, the festivities commence with married women placing red sindoor(powder) on the idols of Goddess Durga. They then smear it on each other. In the evening, the idols are immersed in the water.Final Dhunuchi folk dance to be performed in front of Goddess Durga to please her. This is done holding an earthen pot filled with burning coconut husk and camphor. Drummers lead the dancers with their beats, which vary in speed.

 Kolkata's Bengali restaurants have exclusive Durga Puja menus packed full of authentic delicacies -- both buffet and a la carte. Bengali sweets are also consumed in huge quantities during the festival!

 

"Kolkata is city that has great food and great people. We can stop a stranger and start a quick conversation."