Chowman celebrated the Chinese New Year at its Ballygunge address with some of its loyalists coming together for a party. 

“Food is an essential part of celebrating Chinese New Year. We, at Chowman, celebrate this occasion every year over a special dinner with some important dishes significant to the new year festival,” said Debaditya Chaudhury of Chowman. All the dishes have some symbolism linked to them. “So prawns symbolise liveliness, fish symbolises surplus and wealth, rice symbolises the link between heaven and earth. This is also the year of the dog in the Chinese calendar and therefore at Chowman, we are offering a 10 per cent discount to all customers who are born in the dog years,” he said.

(L-R) Music director Debojyoti Misra, danseuse Tanusree Shankar, owner Debaditya Chaudhury, designer Sharbari Datta and actress Arunima Ghosh cut the New Year cake at Chowman

“Chinese New Year is very interesting for me. The food here is excellent. And Debaditya is a dear friend. I have often packed lunch and dinner from Chowman for my group when we rehearse,” said Tanusree Shankar.

“The ambience here is always good. I love the interiors, decor and the music. It has a very Oriental feel. The Chinese New Year for me is an excuse to eat good food because I am a foodie,” said Arunima Ghosh.

The Chilli Mountain Lobster was the star of the evening. “Lobsters are in demand during Chinese New Year celebrations because of their resemblance to the majestic dragon,” said Debaditya.

The Honey Glazed Roasted Duck was the go-to starter for the evening. The duck “symbolises fidelity” in Chinese culture. 

Text: Sulogna Ghosh
Pictures: B. Halder