Kolkata, known for its culture, heritage and famous street food, has added a new honour to its name. PETA India has declared the city India’s Most Vegan-Friendly City of 2025. The announcement was made in November as part of World Vegan Month.
The award was handed over to Mayor Firhad Hakim, who also heads the West Bengal Department of Urban Development and Municipal Affairs. PETA India said the title recognises Kolkata’s rich variety of naturally vegan Bengali dishes, a rising number of vegan-friendly restaurants and growing interest in cruelty-free fashion and lifestyle choices.
Why was Kolkata chosen as India’s most Vegan-Friendly city of 2025?
Though Bengali cuisine is often linked with fish, the region has always had many plant-based dishes that are part of daily meals. Popular items like aloo posto, aloo chop, cholar dal, tomato khejur chutney and puchka are naturally vegan when prepared without ghee. These dishes show how easily plant-based food fits into Kolkata’s food culture.
The city has also seen a steady rise in cafes, bakeries and restaurants offering vegan options. From dairy-free sweets to plant-based versions of local favourites, vegan food has become more popular among both residents and visitors.
Growing focus on sustainable living
PETA India noted that Kolkata is also becoming a centre for eco-friendly and cruelty-free fashion. Several local designers and shops now offer plant-based fabrics and vegan leather products. This shift shows the city’s increasing interest in conscious and sustainable choices.
Animal-friendly Durga Puja installation
This year, during Durga Puja, the city hosted a special animal-awareness-themed installation created by PETA India. The display featured vegan snacks and encouraged replacing horse-drawn carriages with heritage-style motorised vehicles. The installation was appreciated for promoting animal welfare during one of the state’s biggest festivals.
PETA India’s statement
“From flavourful plant-based Bengali dishes to sustainable vegan fashion and animal-friendly festive experiences, Kolkata is a surprisingly delightful destination for vegans and the vegan-curious,” said Dr Kiran Ahuja, Senior Manager of Vegan and Corporate Projects at PETA India. “PETA India celebrates Kolkata’s growing vegan culture for setting an inspiring example and helping to create a kinder world for all.”
With this recognition, Kolkata has strengthened its identity not only as a city of food and culture, but also as a leading destination for people interested in vegan and cruelty-free living.
