Kolkata, Pujo and the Ritual of Dressing Up

Before the Dhak Begins

Somewhere in the weeks leading up to Pujo, the question starts making its rounds — “Pujoy ki porbi?” What are you wearing for Pujo?

The sari saved for Ashtami comes out, a new kurta finds its way into the wardrobe, and suddenly the little details matter too. Because dressing up has always been part of the fun — a ritual almost as anticipated as Pujo itself.

When the City Dresses Up, So Do We

Pujo dressing has never really been about choosing between old and new. A handloom sari can sit just as easily with contemporary jewellery, while a kurta or bandhgala feels completely at home with a fine watch or a pair of cufflinks.

It’s this mix that makes getting dressed interesting — keeping a little tradition, adding a little of yourself.

The Little Rituals of Getting Ready

Sometimes, it’s the smallest details that say the most. The watch you instinctively reach for, cufflinks that add an unexpected detail, or jewellery that has a story of its own. They don’t all need to match, or even follow the same aesthetic. 

The best accessories are often simply the ones that feel most like you.

The Pujo Edit

There is no single formula for festive dressing. A classic watch works naturally with traditional Indian dressing, adding a familiar finishing touch to a kurta or bandhgala.

Colour can come through in the smallest details. A coloured dial can add contrast to a simple outfit without needing to match it exactly.

Gold has always found its place in festive dressing, whether through jewellery, a watch or smaller details.

For a more understated look, clean lines, slimmer proportions and subtle details can keep the accessories from competing with the outfit.

And it doesn’t always have to be about the watch. Cufflinks, a leather belt or a favourite piece of jewellery can add just as much personality.

There are no real rules to it. The details are simply another way of adding a little of yourself to the tradition.

Step into Pujo

And then comes the best part — stepping out feeling good in what you’re wearing.

There’s something about dressing up that changes the mood. A favourite outfit, a watch you love, that final look in the mirror before heading out — these little things add to the excitement of Pujo.

For a few days, the city makes an occasion of everything. And perhaps that’s why we do too.