November 2025 has been a month of extraordinary vibrancy for the Consulate General of Italy in Kolkata. Through a curated series of events spanning gastronomy, literature, music, and high fashion, we have renewed the historic dialogue between Italy and the “City of Joy.” From the Renaissance echoes in Alipore to the jazz rhythms in the city’s heritage clubs, from enthralling the literary enthusiasts to recreating the flavours of historical Italy, these weeks have stood as a testament to the enduring friendship and cultural affinity that links our two nations.
A Symphony of Flavours: ‘The X Edition of the Week of Italian Cuisine in the World’ and ‘Festa italiana’
Celebrating the global theme “Italian Cuisine: health, culture, and innovation,” we were honoured to host Michelin-starred Chef Italo Bassi and his assistant Matteo Bonin. Their visit went beyond mere culinary demonstration; it was an exploration of taste and tradition. Chef Bassi’s engagement with Kolkata’s local markets—discovering indigenous fish and spices essential to Bengali cuisine – highlighted the deep respect both our cultures hold for authentic ingredients.
The celebrations culminated in a masterclass at the Taj Bengal Kolkata followed by a gala dinner-comprising of classic Italian delicacies- impeccably curated by Chef Italo Bassi- enjoyed by one and all.
Festa italiana
The food fest continued to a dedicated gastronomic experience during the tenth edition of Festa italiana 2025, held at the premises of the Consulate General of Italy in Kolkata in collaboration with the Indo-Italian Chamber of Commerce and Industry (IICCI). In presence of the Consul General Riccardo Dalla Costa and Mr. Claudio Maffioletti, CEO and Secretary General of the IICCI, and several eminent filmmakers, musicians, and esteemed guests, the Festa highlighted the enduring cultural bonds between Italy and India and exemplified the power of partnership in promoting Italian excellence abroad. We are thankful to all our guests, sponsors and awardees—who made the evening an unforgettable experience. We also extend our gratitude to our hospitality partner the Hyatt Regency Kolkata for curating an authentic Italian dining experience, and musicians Gianni Denitto and Alessandro D’Alessandro for enriching the evening with their soulful melodies.
Renaissance Resplendence: Una Serata Fiorentina
The month reached a crescendo of elegance with Una Serata Fiorentina. Against the majestic backdrop of the Victoria Memorial Hall, the City of Joy witnessed “I Medici,” a Renaissance-inspired fashion showcase by Rohan Pariyar that conjured the spirit of historic Italy. The evening continued at the historic Bijay Manzil, where the splendour of the Italian Renaissance was recreated through a high-fashion exhibition by ANSA, a Renaissance-themed bar by Nutcase, period-perfect cuisine from Taj Bengal, curated in collaboration with Gormei. It was a night where history, art, style, music and refined cuisine converged, celebrating the timeless beauty that defines both Italian and Indian heritage and reflecting the deep cultural affinity shaping the identity shared by Italy and Kolkata. watch more here: https://youtu.be/xSCZLg_tcRM?si=3x4p2iyb3AGhsVNS
Rhythm and Soul: Italian Jazz in Bengalhttps://youtu.be/xSCZLg_tcRM?si=3x4p2iyb3AGhsVNSMusic, a universal language, bridged the distance between Italy and India through the artistry of saxophonist Gianni Denitto and accordionist Alessandro D’Alessandro. Over a dynamic ten-day tour, the duo performed at iconic venues including Skinny Mo’s Jazz Club, The Dalhousie Institute, and The Calcutta School of Music. Their masterclasses at the Armenian College and Philanthropic Academy and La Martinière for Boys fostered a spirited exchange with the next generation of musicians, proving that the groove of jazz knows no borders. Kolkata’s music enthusiasts got to enjoy a taste of authentic Italian cuisine as well.
Words Across Worlds: Long Night of Literatures
In the realm of letters and imageries, we were also proud to collaborate of with the EUNIC cluster for the Long Night of Literatures 2025 during Week of Italian Cuisine in the World. Italian author and translator Clara Nubile graced the city, presenting her works Trascuranze and Gli imperfetti. Her interactions with Kolkata’s literary community reaffirmed the power of storytelling to transcend geographical boundaries, weaving a narrative thread that connects the Italian peninsula with the cultural capital of India.
The Consulate General of Italy in Kolkata extends its sincere appreciation to all partners, artists, and participants whose enthusiasm made November 2025 a memorable chapter in the ongoing friendship and rich cultural exchange between Italy and India.
