States » EastPosted at: Oct 11 2026 8:35PM


Where Pankaj Mullick’s melodies meet the spirit of Durga Puja

By Bhajan Gangopadhyay
Kolkata, Oct 11 (UNI) As Mahalaya ushers in the magic of Durga Puja, few things stir Bengali nostalgia as deeply as the timeless voice of Pankaj Kumar Mullick.
For generations, his music has been inseparable from the dawn of the festive season, evoking memories of Mahishasuramardini and the special early-morning broadcast that signals the arrival of the goddess.
This Puja, a cultural space in Kolkata is offering music lovers an opportunity to revisit that golden era at the very home where the legendary composer, singer and music director once lived.
Called Legend and Legacy, the cultural centre and café occupies a section of Mullick’s nearly century-old home, bringing together his musical heritage, personal memorabilia and the warmth of a bygone era.
The initiative has been spearheaded by his grandson Rajib Gupta and granddaughter-in-law Jhinuk Gupta, who seek to preserve his legacy and introduce his extraordinary contribution to younger generations.
“The mere mention of Pankaj Kumar Mullick evokes memories of Mahishasuramardini among Bengalis—the special early-morning broadcast aired by Akashvani Kolkata on Mahalaya.It also shared a deep connection with this heritage building,” Rajib said.
The heritage building itself offers a glimpse into another age, with its Art Deco architecture and rooms steeped in memories. Inside, the exhibition brings visitors closer to the man behind the melodies.
His organ and tanpura are among the prized exhibits, alongside record covers, recordings of his Akashvani programmes, film booklets, photographs with eminent personalities, writings about his life and an Indian Postal Department stamp issued in his honour.
Enlarged displays of his awards and facilities to listen to his songs add to the experience.
For those who grew up with Mullick’s music, the collection is a journey into cherished memories.
For younger visitors, it offers an introduction to an artist whose influence extended across Bengali music and cinema.
The experience takes on a special resonance during Durga Puja, when music, memory and nostalgia become part of Kolkata’s festive landscape.
The café within the cultural centre provides a place to pause after exploring the exhibition, combining a tribute to the maestro with the pleasures of a leisurely festive outing.
With its first Durga Puja season underway, the café has curated a menu featuring dishes said to have been favourites of Mullick, alongside Chinese and Continental fare.
An assortment of coffees and mocktails complements the offerings, while pocket-friendly combo meals are designed for visitors looking for an affordable festive break.
“The menu features the artist's personal favourite dishes alongside Chinese and Continental cuisine, complemented by an enticing selection of mocktails and coffees,” Jhinuk said.
More than a café or a memorabilia collection, Legend and Legacy seeks to keep alive the voice that has accompanied generations of Bengalis through Mahalaya and beyond.
As the city prepares to welcome Durga, the space offers a different kind of festive indulgence — a chance to savour old melodies, rediscover a musical icon and reconnect with the cultural memories that make Puja special.
UNI BGA/SAG NST BM
Tags: #Where Pankaj Mullick’s melodies meet the spirit of Durga Puja
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