A Beloved Institution
For over a century, Nahoum and Sons has been a culinary landmark in Kolkata, nestled within the bustling New Market. Established 123 years ago, this iconic Jewish bakery has served generations with its
delectable confectionery. Its presence has become synonymous with the city's rich cultural tapestry and gastronomic heritage. However, this cherished establishment recently faced an unprecedented challenge that led to its temporary shuttering. The closure, which began on March 18th and was scheduled to last until March 22nd, 2026, sent ripples of surprise and concern through the community, especially among neighboring businesses that have long coexisted with the bakery.
The LPG Crisis Impact
The primary driver behind Nahoum and Sons' temporary shutdown is the persistent and severe LPG crisis. This shortage has drastically impacted the bakery's ability to operate at its usual capacity. The manager, Jagadish Haldar, explained that the limited availability of LPG meant a reduced production of their beloved items. Despite efforts to manage with the scarce resources, the situation became untenable, forcing the difficult decision to close temporarily. Haldar expressed the commitment to reopening as soon as feasible, emphasizing that operating 'half-heartedly' was not an option. The closure is a stark illustration of how supply chain disruptions, even those seemingly distant, can have profound effects on local businesses with long-standing traditions.
Community Reaction and Future
The unexpected closure of Nahoum and Sons has been met with surprise by those who frequent the New Market area. Sushil Jasnani, owner of an adjacent garment shop, noted that the bakery's regular weekly closure is typically on Saturdays, making this prolonged shutdown a first. He recalled that the shop had only closed for a single day previously when the last owner, David Nahoum, passed away in 2013. The current closure, attributed to 'unavoidable circumstances' as per the notice pasted on the shutter, leaves many questioning the long-term implications. While insiders hope for a swift return to normalcy, there remains an air of uncertainty about when operations can resume fully, underscoring the vulnerability of even established businesses to external economic pressures.
