Mention Mughlai Paratha — and Anadi Cabin is likely to be the first name that comes to our mind. The yellow sign board outside the shop — just a few steps away from the crossing of Esplanade and SN Banerjee Road — proudly declares ‘Anadi-r prossidho Moghlai’ (Anadi’s famous Mughlai Paratha). And not without a reason.
The founder-owner of this eatery was Balaram Jana, who arrived in Kolkata in search of a livelihood from Dhuipara village in Midnapore
The stories surrounding the shop’s origins differ, but what remains unanimous is that its founder-owner was Balaram Jana, who arrived in Kolkata in search of a livelihood from Dhuipara village in Midnapore. While some say Jana initially worked for an Englishman before buying the shop, others believe he first lived in Howrah and later collaborated with an Englishman to establish the shop. The shop was named ‘Anadi’ in memory of Jana’s late son.
The flatbread stuffed with eggs (chicken or duck), chillies and onions, is a popular snack among customers of all age groups
Ever since its inception, approximately 90 years ago, Anadi has been winning hearts with its delish and crispy Mughlai Parathas. The flatbread stuffed with eggs (chicken or duck), chilies and onions, is a popular snack among customers of all age groups. Served with aloor torkari and salad, a single Egg Mughlai Paratha is priced at Rs 90, while the double-egg version comes for Rs 100. The shop is open everyday between 1.30pm and 9pm.
The shop was named ‘Anadi’ in memory of Balaram Jana’s late son (on the right)
As Anadi Cabin flourished over the years, Jana did not forget his roots. Despite being poorly educated, Jana decided to spread the light of education in his village. With that in mind, he started a school near the Bengal-Odisha border. He not only helped build the school but also funded books for students. A share of his earnings from the shop was set aside for the school every month. It was a practice that his successors continue to honour till date. It is perhaps this act of goodwill that adds magic to the taste of Anadi’s Mughlai Parathas.
Upon entering the shop, one is greeted by the sight of Mughlai Parathas being prepared at a live counter
“As a kid, I used to often come to this shop with my grandfather. Even now, whenever we crave Mughlai food, Anadi is our go-to place,” said Ramen Das, a middle-aged man from Girish Park, who was visiting the shop, this time, with his wife and parents.
The ambience of Anadi is filled with nostalgia, reminiscent of the bygone era. The small wooden chairs and tables, food served on white ceramic plates, and the cash-only payment method are bound to transport you back in time.
Their menu includes Mughlai Paratha, kosha mangsho and fish fry
ShutterstockUpon entering the shop, one is greeted by the sight of Mughlai Parathas being prepared at a live counter. As you make your way to a seat, you’ll meet Sudhangshu Kumar Dutta, one of the shop’s oldest employees, standing behind the cashbox. “I have been working here for the last 53 years. I also come from the same village as our founder. Time has passed, yet people’s love for Anadi’s Mughlai delights remains intact. The chairs are never empty, as you can see yourself. Our menu now includes Mughlai Paratha, kosha mangsho and fish fry,” Dutta said before signing off.
