Pujo melas, sari shopping and sindoor khela: ‘It’s a joy to keep our traditions alive’

To ring in the festive season, we spent an afternoon with the two women behind the popular footwear and accessories brand Sreeleathers — young entrepreneur Rochita Dey and her mother, Shipra.

In a chat they share their favourite Pujo memories, their festive plans, and more.What are you looking forward to this Pujo?Shipra Dey: Decorating our home with fresh flowers is a tradition I love and share with my daughter. Their fragrance feels like a welcome for the goddess. I cherish seeing Rochita carry forward these rituals in her own way.Rochita Dey: My mother has always loved hosting friends and family at home, but during Pujo it becomes even more special.

Our home becomes a joyful hub, a pitstop for relatives and friends between pandal hopping. Our kitchen becomes the heart of the house, always buzzing with aromas.Tell us what Pujo shopping means for you.SD: For me, Pujo shopping is yearlong — I curate each look with care. This year, Sashti will see a Benarasi, Saptami a Dhakai jamdani, Ashtami a graceful Gadwal, and Nabami a regal Kanjeevaram. But the highlight is Dashami, when my daughter and I will wear matching red-and-white saris, capturing the festival’s timeless spirit together.

RD: I rarely buy outfits off the rack. I love is creating my Pujo outfits from scratch – from fabrics to lace and even the buttons. Jewellery, too, comes from my mom’s closet, each piece carrying her love and tradition. Ethnic wear is a must for my festive style.Your most treasured Puja memory?SD: I remember taking my four-year-old-daughter to Jamshedpur for Pujo. Enchanted by the dhaak beats, she broke into an impromptu dance on the street.

Rochita’s festive spirit made it an unforgettable moment for us all.RD: Sindoor khela holds deep sentiment. As a child, I watched my mother’s tearful farewell to Maa Durga. Last year, I got married & joined her in boron and sindoor khela, it was a sentimental moment that bridged generations.What they have to say:We eagerly await the Pujo mela, it’s a celebration within a celebration. The rides bring out my inner child, while she is an undefeated champion at balloon shooting (laughs)– Shipra DeyFor my mother, Puja shopping means crockery over saris, as she dreams up new ways to welcome and delight her guests each year– Rochita Dey