Nestled in the heart of North Kolkata, just behind College Square, lies Paramount Cold Drinks & Syrups – a living legend that has been quenching the city’s thirst since 1918. More than just a refreshment stop, Paramount is a slice of Kolkata’s history, a cultural landmark, and a nostalgic retreat for generations of locals, students, and even celebrities.
Paramount’s story is as fascinating as the flavors it serves. Founded by Nihar Ranjan Mazumdar in 1918, the establishment began its journey under the name Paradise. During British rule, the shop served as a secret meeting spot for Indian revolutionaries, cleverly disguised as a harmless sherbet store. When their activities were eventually uncovered, the shop was renamed Paramount – a symbol of resilience and commitment to quality.
What sets Paramount apart is not only its age but also its unwavering dedication to tradition. The same century-old recipes, crafted with care and precision, continue to define the taste of its signature drinks. Each glass tells a story – of freedom, flavor, and faithfulness to heritage.
Over the past century, Paramount has seen the changing face of Kolkata while remaining a timeless favorite. The shop’s old-world charm – the green wooden furniture, vintage glassware, and modest décor – evokes a bygone era. Despite occasional touch-ups, its essence has remained untouched.
The shop has also hosted a distinguished clientele. Legends such as Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose, Acharya Prafulla Chandra Ray, Satyajit Ray, and Jagadish Chandra Bose once visited this humble establishment, sipping sherbet as they discussed art, science, and nationalism. Their visits have turned Paramount into not just a beverage shop, but a part of Kolkata’s intellectual and cultural heritage.
No discussion of Paramount is complete without mentioning its most beloved creation – the Daab Sherbet (tender coconut sherbet). A refreshing blend of coconut water, syrup, and soft coconut flesh, this signature drink was developed with the guidance of the renowned scientist Acharya Prafulla Chandra Ray. It offers not only a burst of tropical flavor but also remarkable health benefits, making it a perfect antidote to Kolkata’s sweltering summers.
Other favorites include the Tamarind Sherbet, a tangy-sweet concoction ideal for beating the heat, and the Kesar Malai Sherbet, a creamy delight combining saffron, milk, and nuts. For those seeking something exotic, the Passion Fruit Malai Sherbet adds a delightful twist with its rich, fruity undertones.
In an age when most heritage brands chase expansion and modernization, Paramount has chosen a different path. It continues to operate from its single, iconic location on Bankim Chatterjee Street, refusing to dilute its authenticity for commercial gain. Its ingredients are sourced from specific regions – for instance, the tender coconuts for the Daab Sherbet come all the way from Basirhat, ensuring unmatched quality and consistency.
This commitment to originality and simplicity is what keeps patrons coming back generation after generation. Paramount isn’t about flashy branding or mass production – it’s about preserving a taste that has remained unchanged for over a century.
Visiting Paramount is like stepping into a time capsule. The narrow entrance, modest space, and chatter of students from nearby colleges create an atmosphere that feels quintessentially Kolkata. It’s a place where you share tables with strangers, chat over chilled sherbet, and experience a slower, more nostalgic rhythm of life.
To make the most of your visit, drop by during off-peak hours, as the small shop can get quite crowded – especially during the summer months. Though delivery options are now available, nothing compares to sipping a glass of sherbet in the timeless ambiance of the shop itself. And remember – cash payments still rule here!
One of Paramount’s enduring charms is its affordability. Despite its legendary status, the prices remain modest – around ₹150-₹200 for two. This makes it not just a delicious treat but also an accessible one, allowing everyone to enjoy a piece of Kolkata’s living history.
For over a hundred years, Paramount Cold Drinks & Syrups has stood as a beacon of Kolkata’s culinary and cultural spirit. It’s where history, flavor, and nostalgia come together in a single glass – where every sip connects you to generations past.
Whether you’re a local revisiting childhood memories or a visitor discovering the city’s hidden gems, a stop at Paramount is a must. Because in every drop of sherbet here, you taste not just sweetness – but the soul of Kolkata itself.
Images & Video by Team Wiki Kolkata
