Girish Chandra Dey & Nakur Chandra Nandy, affectionately known as ‘Nakur,’ is a legendary sweet shop in Kolkata, celebrated for its exquisite sandesh creations. Established in 1844 by Mahesh Chandra Dey, the shop’s journey from a modest street cart to a revered institution spans over 180 years, reflecting a rich legacy intertwined with Bengal’s cultural and culinary heritage.
Founding and Early History
The origins of this iconic establishment trace back to Mahesh Chandra Dey, who initiated the business with a street cart, offering traditional Bengali sweets. His dedication to quality and authenticity quickly garnered a loyal clientele. Upon Mahesh’s passing, his son, Girish Chandra Dey, assumed leadership and sought to expand the business’s horizons. Recognizing the importance of expertise in confectionery, Girish arranged the marriage of his daughter to Nakur Chandra Nandy, a skilled ‘moira’ (confectioner) from Janai in Hooghly district—a region renowned for producing expert sweet makers.
Evolution and Specialization
The partnership between Girish and his son-in-law Nakur proved transformative. Combining Girish’s vision with Nakur’s confectionery prowess, they elevated the art of sandesh-making to new heights. The shop became particularly famous for its ‘karapak sandesh,’ a firmer variant of the traditional sweet, distinguished by its unique texture and flavor.
Legacy and Modern Recognition
Today, Girish Chandra Dey & Nakur Chandra Nandy continues to operate from its original location at 56, Ramdulal Sarkar Street, Hedua Park, Hatibagan, Kolkata. The establishment remains a testament to enduring quality and tradition, attracting both locals and tourists eager to savor its renowned sweets. The shop’s commitment to preserving traditional methods while innovating within the sandesh genre has solidified its status as a cultural landmark.
The enduring success of ‘Nakur’ underscores the timeless appeal of authentic craftsmanship and the deep-rooted cultural significance of traditional Bengali confections. As it stands, the shop not only offers sweets but also serves as a living chronicle of Kolkata’s rich gastronomic history.
