Kolkata's restaurants and pubs experienced a significant surge in customers during the Christmas weekend, with many reporting a 20-30% increase in footfalls. Establishments in central and south Kolkata were particularly busy, prompting extended closing hours for the festive period. Owners attribute the boost to favorable weather, school holidays, and the festive spirit, anticipating record-breaking numbers through the New Year.

Agniva Chakraborty's 2025 calendar honors Marathi cartoonist Shivram Dattatreya Phadnis (SDP) as he approaches his 100th birthday. Phadnis, known for his caption-less cartoons in publications like Mohini, is celebrated for his simple yet profound humor. The calendar recognizes Phadnis's seven-decade career and his unique contribution to Indian cartooning.

Sunidhi Chauhan's spectacular production, 'I Am Home,' is coming to Kolkata for the first time this Christmas Eve. Along with her chart-topping hits, Bollywood diva Tamannaah Bhatia will join the stage with a sizzling performance, promising an unforgettable night of music and dance organized by Centrestage and Whos Next.

A massive fire swept through a Topsia slum in Kolkata on Friday, destroying approximately 150 homes. Fifteen fire tenders battled the blaze, which was exacerbated by dry winter winds and densely packed flammable materials. Although hampered by the slum's congested layout, firefighters brought the fire under control within two hours.

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee inaugurated the Christmas Festival at Allen Park, emphasizing religious harmony and unity. She criticized the central government for canceling the Christmas holiday while highlighting Bengal's inclusive approach. Banerjee also announced the renaming of Short Street to St. Francis Xavier Sarani.