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In what comes as a pleasant surprise to many, the city of Kolkata was chosen as India’s ‘Most Vegan-Friendly’ for 2025 by PETA India. The accolade—which was presented to mayor Firhad Hakim by the animal rights organisation, recognised a variety of vegan offerings in traditional Bengali cuisine as well as the city’s growing number of vegan-friendly eateries, events and fashion designers to account for. In a release issued by PETA, it stated that, “From aloo posto to aloo chop, cholar dal to tomato khejur chutney, puchka and more—the region’s vegetarian food is usually vegan (when made without ghee). Kolkata’s restaurants and eateries also do not disappoint, with delicious stir-fries, unique salads and tofu specials.”
Dr Kiran Ahuja—PETA’s senior manager for Vegan and Corporate Projects—also mentioned that, “From flavourful Bengali plant-powered dishes to sustainable vegan fashion and festive animal-friendly events, Kolkata is an unexpectedly delightful destination for vegans and the vegan-curious.PETA India is celebrating Kolkata’s ever-expanding vegan offerings for setting a shining example and helping to make the world a kinder place for all.” In addition to the metropolis being conducive to a vegan diet, the announcement also acknowledged its ability to craft fashionable garments from plant-friendly, sustainable and affordable faux leather, along with having an active animal-friendly Facebook community known as ‘Kolkata Vegans’.
Image Credits: Wikimedia Commons
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Online communities have also been instrumental in planning and executing potlucks, share tips on how to adapt to the lifestyle as well as make kinder choices. Events such as an animal awareness themed Durga Puja further helped bolster its long-standing efforts to bag the award—due to its offering of vegan snacks, among other attractions. Along with this, the city is also home to Eastern India’s first ever vegan food distribution firm known as Vegan World. Eateries like The Flaming Bowl, Aldo Café, Out and Beyond, Glenburn Café, Sienna Store and Café, and The Daily also received special mention for their selection of comfort meals, vegan gelato and plant-based lattes. The collective consciousness which has been at the crux of raising an awareness is reflected beyond the diet—making Kolkata the ultimate destination for vegans and the vegan-curious.
