Mishti,Maa & Masab Tank: The Bengali blend in Hyd

Hailing from Delhi, Sanjay Pan has found his home here in Hyderabad and of course, is taking Hyderabadi’s to the tradition of Kolkata during Durga Puja.
The Pioneer interacts with him as he discusses his association with the city, allure for the people here and more
In the enchanting realm of Hyderabad, where biryani is a way of life and the Charminar is the crown jewel, the Bengali community has woven its vibrant threads into the city’s cultural fabric, complete with lively dhak beats and an abundance of fish curry. Every October, the city buzzes with excitement as Bengalis transform Hyderabad into a mini-Kolkata for Durga Puja, swapping the usual honking for the rhythmic thump of the dhak.
You haven’t truly experienced Hyderabad until you’ve witnessed a group of Bengalis passionately debating the best pulao while donning their finest sarees and kurta pajamas, proving that no matter the distance, the love for food and festivities knows no bounds. One such person is Sanjay Pan, the Vice President of the Bengali Cultural Association, who embodies the spirit of the community and shares his unique bond with the city.  
In 2005, when Sanjay Pan, a Delhi-born Bengali, first set foot in Hyderabad, he didn’t expect to fall in love with the city. He arrived for work, overseeing operations at Golconda Hotel and Resorts, but ended up staying for much more. “I came with no expectations, just going with the flow,” he shares. What surprised him most wasn’t just the work or weather, but the people. “The city was charming with frequent rains back then, but it’s the people who made me feel at home.”
With a natural need to find his roots in an unfamiliar place, he soon stumbled upon the Bengali Cultural Association, a group established in 1974. Located at Vindhyachal Apartments, it quickly became his go-to spot for a dose of culture and community. “As Bengalis, we love to socialise and Durga Puja is a big part of that,” Sanjay says with a twinkle in his eye. “The association was started by Bengalis from organisations like NMBC and it’s kept that spirit alive.”
Looking back at his early days, he reflects fondly. “Hyderabad welcomed me in a way no other city has. I’ve worked in Delhi, Bhubaneswar, and Kolkata, but here, I knew this could be my home. The people, the weather, the growing infrastructure—everything just clicked. When I first moved here, my daughter was just a toddler. Today, she’s finishing college and I’ve seen her grow up alongside this city.”
Comparing Hyderabad with his hometown in West Bengal, he acknowledges the differences but says the emotional connection is undeniable. “Every city has its own flavour. Kolkata is all about that urban rush, and visiting my native village brings out the nostalgia. But Hyderabad, it’s in a league of its own. Watching it evolve—from roads to golf courses and even the international airport—has been extraordinary. This city is on the rise, no doubt about it.”
His love for the city isn’t just about the infrastructure. It’s about the people. “One of my fondest memories is from my old neighborhood in Masab Tank, near our Bengali club. It’s where Hindu and Muslim families lived side by side in harmony. Once, when my daughter was sick, our neighbour—a flower shop owner—brought over a fruit, insisting it would help her recover. That small act of kindness stays with me to this day.”
Having transitioned from hospitality to real estate, He is now Vice President at Hallmark Builders. “Professionally, Hyderabad has opened many doors for me,” he says, smiling. “I’ve built a network of high-profile connections, and it’s given me opportunities globally. The city has truly been instrumental in shaping my career and personal growth.”
Though deeply connected to Hyderabad, he isn’t blind to its challenges. “Traffic is the one thing I wish could improve. The city’s growth is phenomenal, but with it comes the inevitable congestion. We could use more flyovers and better connectivity.” But despite the occasional traffic jam, his affection for Hyderabad remains strong—especially when it comes to the food. “I’m a foodie at heart, and Hyderabad is a paradise! From Mexican to shawarma, the variety is endless. My family has this tradition of visiting Ofen in Banjara Hills every Christmas. It’s our spot.” For anyone visiting Hyderabad, he has his favorite tourist picks ready: “Ramoji Film City, the Birla Temple and the new Durgam Cheruvu Hanging Bridge, which I visit almost every day. The city has something for everyone—from Golconda Fort to quick escapes like Narsapur Forest and Vikarabad Hills, just a short drive away.”
He also loves the contrast of city and village life. “One of the best things about living here is that you can drive 100 kilometers and find yourself surrounded by serene villages. It’s a great way to escape the hustle.”
As for what his family loves to take back from the City of Pearls? “Sarees, of course! The traditional sarees from Andhra and Telangana are always a hit. And pearls—Hyderabad is the City of Pearls for a reason! Miniature Charminars make great souvenirs too.”
Reflecting on his Bengali roots, he adds that Hyderabad’s inclusivity is what makes it truly special. “Our Durga Puja at Banjara Hills is open to everyone. It’s a mix of cultures—whether it’s Kathak dancers or local performers, we love to include everyone in our celebrations. We’ve always felt embraced by the city. ”His Hyderabad journey is one filled with warmth, belonging, and a deep appreciation for the unique mix of cultures that make this city tick. “This is a place where everyone can feel part of something bigger. That’s what makes Hyderabad home for me.”