Siliguri, 14th January: Poush Sankranti has ushered in a festive atmosphere across Siliguri, with the aroma of date palm jaggery filling homes and markets alike. The traditional pithe-puli festival, an integral part of the Bengali harvest celebration, has drawn large crowds to sweet shops across the city since early Wednesday morning.
In Siliguri and adjoining areas, long queues of pithe lovers were seen at confectionery outlets. With changing lifestyles and increasing work commitments, fewer households are preparing pithe-puli at home as was common in earlier times. To meet growing demand, sweet shops are now offering a wide variety of traditional and modern pithes.
Classic favourites such as bhapa pitha, dudh puli, patishapta and chitoi pitha are sharing shelf space with innovative fusion pithes, attracting customers of all age groups. Buyers noted that practices like using a traditional dheki to pound rice have become rare, with many opting for mixers or ready-made ingredients.
Shrinking family sizes and busy schedules have further contributed to the shift from home-made pithes to store-bought varieties. As a result, sweet shops continue to remain the centre of celebration, reflecting how tradition is adapting to modern lifestyles during Poush Sankranti.