When you walk down Park Street in Kolkata, amidst the buzz of cafés and colonial charm, you might just miss a hidden gem that’s been dazzling India’s elite for over a century. But step inside Satramdas Dhalamal, and you’re instantly transported into a world where tradition meets couture, and every piece of jewellery tells a story. This isn’t just any jewellery store—it’s an institution, a parampara that dates back to 1880, where heritage whispers from every glittering ruby and antique-finished gold bangle. With a client list that once included Rabindranath Tagore and modern-day Bollywood royalty, and a reputation that blends Bengali sanskriti with Parisian flair, this is the place that brides from across India fly to for their shaadi ka joda and more. Curious? We thought you’d be.
Satramdas Dhalamal: Story of the Oldest Bridal Jewellery Store in Kolkata
Image Courtesy: Raj Mahtani Facebook Id
Let’s rewind the clock to 1880, when a visionary named Dhalamal journeyed from Sind (now in Pakistan) to the cultural heart of Calcutta. With a dream and an eye for beauty, he opened the first Satramdas Dhalamal store right where Moulin Rouge stands today on Park Street. Satramdas Dhalamal quickly became the go-to jeweller for royals and elites, including the great Rabindranath Tagore, who affectionately called it "Banglar prothom rashosroshtha" (Bengal’s first confectioner—but of jewels, of course). A few years later, the store moved across the street into the elegant Queens Mansion, built in 1905, where it remains to this day—still sparkling, still iconic. The family legacy travelled from Dhalamal to his grandson Daulat Ram, who, in the 1920s and 30s, would pack trunks of handcrafted jewels and embark on three-week train journeys to sell to maharajas in Patiala, Mysore, Hyderabad and even Nepal. Fast forward to today, and the brand is in the extremely capable (and creative) hands of Raj Mahtani, the fourth-generation torchbearer who has completely redefined what bridal jewellery can be.
Image Courtesy: Raj Mahtani Facebook Id
After spending nine years in Antwerp—the diamond capital of the world—Raj returned to Kolkata with big dreams and a vision to blend traditional Indian craftsmanship with modern global design. And wow, did he deliver! His signature style? Bespoke pieces using rubies, emeralds and diamonds set in toned-down gold for that antique yet modern look. None of that loud, yellow chamak-dhamak—this is elegant, classy bridal jewellery that speaks volumes without screaming. Today, the flagship store at Queens Mansion feels less like a local store and more like a boutique in Paris. Raj has even brought in staff from the hospitality and travel industries to make every bride’s visit a luxury experience. And with plans for a swanky new store in Mumbai’s posh Kemps Corner under the label Raj Mahtani Calcutta, the brand is now spreading its sparkle across India. What’s more, Raj is not just about selling jewellery—he’s passionate about preserving the dying art of handmade pieces. While 3D printing and machine-made ornaments are flooding the market, Raj believes nothing beats the heart and soul of a hand-crafted jewel. Through his innovative collections—like Paris in Calcutta, showcased at the Vogue Wedding Show—he’s championing a unique crossover of East and West. From chiffon sarees to Indo-western gowns, his designs suit every silhouette and every bride with a dream in her eyes.
Whether you want an OTT necklace for the shaadi, statement earrings for the sangeet, or a sleek choker for the reception, Satramdas Dhalamal has it all. And not just that—they help you style it right too! No wonder brides say this isn’t just shopping—it’s an experience. In a world of mass production, Satramdas Dhalamal stands tall as a living, breathing piece of heritage, wrapped in gold and love. So, if you’re planning a wedding or simply love jewellery that tells a story, don’t miss the chance to walk into this iconic Kolkata store. Ready to find your perfect bridal sparkle?
Where:A, 12J, Park St, Park Street area, Kolkata, West Bengal 700016