During one of the most challenging chapters in modern history, a small kitchen in Tripura became the cradle of a dream that would soon transform the local culinary scene. In 2020, Shila Das Gupta started her venture with just a couple of orders each day. With steadfast determination and a heart full of passion, she turned adversity into opportunity. Today, her legacy shines in the form of a fine-dine Bengali restaurant and a budding multi-cuisine venture that stands as an inspiration to every aspiring entrepreneur.
In the early days of the Corona crisis in 2020, the world was gripped by fear and uncertainty and many people found it hard to imagine a future beyond the pandemic. In the midst of these challenging times, Shila Das Gupta, a dedicated homemaker, took a brave step. She started a humble cloud kitchen and managed to serve only two to three orders a day. Yet, her determination to serve authentic Bengali flavours kept her going as every small order was a step toward a larger dream.
Also read | Tripura Start-Up Policy 2024 To Ignite Innovation And Growth
Over the next three years, as the business slowly gained momentum, Shila and her family discovered a crucial government support system. In an exclusive conversation with Ukhrul Times, co-founder Debasree Poddar recalled the turning point in their journey.
“In 2024, we officially launched the restaurant, which is actually my mother’s. The venture was initiated under Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s Stand Up India Scheme,” Poddar said.
“My mother began a cloud kitchen in 2020 during the Corona crisis, and at that time we were receiving only two to three orders a day. However, as time passed and our business gained momentum over the next three years, we learned about the scheme,” she added.
According to the guidelines of the Stand Up India Scheme, women entrepreneurs who have successfully run their businesses for three years are eligible.
“Since my mother qualified for the scheme, we applied for support and received it. Following that, we launched Bangla Bhoj in 2024, the first authentic fine-dine Bengali restaurant in Tripura,” she said.
Also read | Age-Old Traditions ‘Burir Ghar’ And ‘Harir Loot’ Mark Makar Sankranti Celebrations In Tripura
This government scheme did not just provide financial support; it lit a spark of confidence and hope in Shila and her team. With this help, they rebranded their venture into Bangla Bhoj, a restaurant that soon became renowned for its genuine taste and traditional Bengali recipes. The transformation from a modest cloud kitchen to a full-fledged fine-dine restaurant was a true milestone in the power of persistence and people’s support.
After serving hundreds of guests over the course of a year, Bangla Bhoj earned tremendous appreciation from the guests. Loyal customers who cherished the authentic Bengali flavours expressed their desire for more variety. Responding to this demand, the owners decided to expand their culinary horizons.
Debasree Poddar explained further, “Following the demands and positive reviews, we started our Multi-Cuisine Restaurant ‘Desh Bideshe’, a unit of Bangla Bhoj on the second floor, which was inaugurated just two days ago on 6th February.”
She continued with enthusiasm, “We plan to offer cuisines from around the world, including Indian and Chinese, and we hope that people will love ‘Desh Bideshe’ just as much as they love Bangla Bhoj.”
Meanwhile, founder Shila Das Gupta added her heartfelt sentiment, “Starting as a cloud kitchen and evolving into a multi-cuisine restaurant is a dream come true for me.”
Also read | Inspiring Lakhpati Didi Initiative Uplifts Over 6.7 Lakh Women In Northeast India
Her words reflect the incredible journey of resilience and determination that saw a small beginning bloom into a celebrated culinary destination. Shila’s journey inspires not only local entrepreneurs but also every individual who dares to dream despite tough odds. It reminds us that even in the darkest times, hope, courage, and the willingness to innovate can transform challenges into opportunities for growth and success.
This inspiring story stands as a beacon of hope and determination. It teaches the youths that every small step, when driven by passion and supported by society and government initiatives, can lead to the achievement of great dreams.
The restaurant is located at Banamalipur, near Purbasha, UCO Bank 2nd Floor. It is owned by founder Shila Das Gupta and her two co-founders, her daughter Debasree Poddar and her son. The two co-founders manage the restaurant together with their dedicated manager, Bilash Majumder.