Project Title: Evolving Food Taste of Kolkata
Class: XII
Subject: English
Submitted by: [Your Name]
School Name: [Your School Name]
Subject Teacher: [Teacher’s Name]
Session: 2025–26
Index
1. Objective / Statement of Purpose
2. Certificate of Completion
3. Action Plan
4. Content / Main Essay
5. Photograph of Positive Experience
6. Bibliography
Objective / Statement of Purpose
The objective of this project is to study how the food habits and taste preferences of the people of
Kolkata have evolved over the years. It aims to explore the influence of globalization, migration,
media, and changing lifestyles on the traditional Bengali cuisine. Through this project, I seek to
understand how Kolkata—often called the “City of Joy”—has transformed into a melting pot of
diverse culinary cultures while still preserving its unique identity.
Certificate of Completion
This is to certify that [Your Name], a student of Class XII, has successfully completed the English
Project titled “Evolving Food Taste of Kolkata” under the guidance of [Teacher’s Name]. This
project is a genuine piece of work and has been prepared as per the guidelines provided by the
school and the CBSE curriculum.
Teacher’s Signature: ____________________
Date: ____________________
School Seal: ____________________
Action Plan
1. Conducted surveys and informal interviews with local food vendors and families in Kolkata.
2. Collected information from newspapers, magazines, and food blogs.
3. Visited popular eateries such as Park Street restaurants and local sweet shops.
4. Compiled findings into a detailed report highlighting the shift in food preferences.
5. Added visuals and photographs to show real-life experiences.
Content / Main Essay
Kolkata, known for its cultural richness and intellectual spirit, has also earned a name for its diverse
and evolving food culture. From the aroma of freshly fried telebhaja to the spicy phuchkas on every
corner, the city has always been a paradise for food lovers. But over the past few decades, the food
taste of Kolkata has witnessed a remarkable transformation.
In earlier times, the typical Bengali meal was simple yet elaborate, consisting of rice, lentils,
vegetables, fish, and sweets. Meals were home-cooked, and recipes were passed down through
generations. However, modernization and exposure to global cuisine have slowly changed the
culinary landscape.
The emergence of restaurants, food delivery apps, and international food chains like KFC,
Domino’s, and Starbucks has introduced the younger generation to a wider variety of tastes. Today,
it’s not unusual to see people enjoying momos, pasta, and burgers alongside traditional dishes like
machher jhol and rosogolla.
Another key factor behind this evolution is migration. As people from different states and countries
have settled in Kolkata, they brought with them their own culinary traditions. North Indian curries,
South Indian dosas, and Chinese dishes have become an integral part of the city’s foodscape. In
fact, Kolkata’s version of Chinese food, known as “Indian-Chinese,” has become a style of its own.
Food festivals and social media have also played a major role. Platforms like Instagram and
YouTube have made food more than just a necessity—it’s now an experience to share. Young
people experiment with fusion dishes like Biryani Pizza, Chocolate Samosa, and Cheese Sandesh,
blending old and new flavors creatively.
Despite these changes, the heart of Kolkata’s food identity remains strong. Sweet shops like KC
Das and Balaram Mullick continue to attract crowds, and no celebration feels complete without
mishti doi or sandesh. Street food is still the soul of the city—egg rolls, kathi kebabs, and ghugni
chaat remain as popular as ever.
This blend of tradition and innovation shows the adaptability of Kolkata’s people. The city has
embraced new cuisines without abandoning its roots. The modern Kolkatan enjoys sushi and steak
but still craves ilish maach during monsoon and payesh during festivals.
In conclusion, the evolving food taste of Kolkata is not just about changing preferences—it’s a
reflection of cultural openness and continuous growth. The city’s food culture mirrors its identity:
diverse, inclusive, and full of life. Kolkata continues to remind the world that food is not only about
taste but also about tradition, emotion, and togetherness.
Photograph of Positive Experience
(Attach your own photo visiting a local food market, eating traditional dishes, or exploring a café in
Kolkata.)
Example Caption: “Enjoying authentic Bengali cuisine at a heritage restaurant in North Kolkata.”
Bibliography
1. The Telegraph – Food Section Articles on Kolkata Cuisine
2. Times of India – Kolkata Food Culture Reports
3. www.foodatlasofindia.com
4. Interviews with local food stall owners (Kolkata, 2025)
5. YouTube: Bong Eats Channel
