UNVEILING BENGAL’S CULINARY CHARMS AND FESTIVALS THROUGH DIDAN’S LETTERS IN SANDEEPA DATTA MUKHERJEE’S THOSE DELICIOUS LETTERS

Abstract

Food and festivals are intimately connected as seen in the Bengali proverb “Baromasen Tero Porbon” which highlights thirteen festivals in twelve months. Feasting and preparing diverse delicacies are pivotal in celebrations, preserving cultural legacies. Sandeepa Datta Mukherjee expertly weaves together recipes and narratives in her debut novel “Those Delicious Letters” offering a delightful exploration of Bengali culture and cuisine. Didan, a grandmother’s letter received by Subhalaxmi Sen- Gupta overwhelmed her and she became captivated by the nostalgia and essence of a bygone era. From Boisakha to Chaitra every month of the Bengali calendar brings a letter from Didan, the grandmother, each containing a recipe brimming with flavours ideally suited for the season. In every letter food surpassed mere sustenance mirroring the prevailing culture of the era. From eating habits to festivals every aspect intricately entwined in to the fabric of the time. This historical context entwined with cuisine served as the backdrop for Subha and Didan.