Kolkata, September 18, 2026: The festive spirit of Kolkata came alive with the opening of DEVI – Pre-Puja Exhibition & Diwali Collection, a three-day lifestyle showcase organised by the Kolkata Women’s Business Alliance (KWBA), an initiative of Gouri’s Foundation. The exhibition, being held at Laketown, Shreebhumi, brings together fashion, jewellery, beauty, food and lifestyle offerings while providing a dedicated platform for women-led businesses.
The exhibition was inaugurated in the presence of Tarunjyoti Tewari, MLA, Rajarhat Gopalpur, West Bengal; Keya Ghosh, prominent politician and spokesperson for BJP, West Bengal; and Soma Chakraborty, President, Gouri’s Foundation and Kolkata Women’s Business Alliance.
The opening day featured 70 exclusive stalls representing around 50 women entrepreneurs and exhibitors, offering visitors a diverse range of products and experiences ahead of Puja and Diwali. From traditional sarees and contemporary fashion to statement jewellery and beauty products, the exhibition showcases a wide selection of festive offerings.
Jewellery enthusiasts can explore collections from brands such as Panna Diamond and P. Sircar Johuree, while food lovers can enjoy Aminia Biryani along with other culinary attractions.
Adding to the festive atmosphere are flash deals, lucky draws and special surprises. The exhibition also features Sharad Sundari, a beauty contest celebrating style, confidence and personality, with categories including Best Face and Best Smile.
DEVI also carries a social message through its association with Gouris Foundation’s upcoming project, PARIDHAN. Visitors are encouraged to donate clothes they no longer need so that pre-loved garments can be given a renewed purpose and reach people in need. The initiative seeks to bring the spirit of giving into the festive shopping experience.
According to the organisers, DEVI has been conceived as more than a conventional exhibition. It reflects KWBA’s vision of creating greater visibility and meaningful business opportunities for women entrepreneurs and professionals. The platform brings together emerging and established women-led enterprises, enabling them to showcase their products, reach new customers and explore opportunities for business growth during the festive season.
Speaking on the occasion, Soma Chakraborty, President, Gouri’s Foundation and Kolkata Women’s Business Alliance, said, “DEVI was envisioned as a celebration of women-led enterprise, creativity and the vibrant spirit of the festive season. We expect this one-of-a-kind platform to bring together an exciting mix of fashion, lifestyle, food and entertainment, while the association with PARIDHAN adds a meaningful purpose to the experience. We look forward to welcoming visitors over all three days as DEVI continues to celebrate women, businesses and the joy of giving. We expect it to become bigger and better in the coming years.”
