Kolkata, Sept 14: Nearly 18 years ago, when Kolkata saw the launch of its first women-operated petrol pump, it was hailed as a milestone in women empowerment. Now, the city has witnessed yet another historic moment as Ho Chi Minh Sarani became home to Syonna Experience, the first café in the metropolis to be entirely run by women.
The café was inaugurated by Priyadarshini Hakim, daughter of State Minister and Kolkata Mayor Firhad Hakim, and General Secretary of the Trinamool Mahila Congress. According to founder Ritesh Chowdhury, a businessman and mental health expert, Syonna is more than just a café. “The food will be of the highest quality, but I also wanted to create a space where food, art, community, and mental health awareness come together to foster peace in life,” he said.
Co-founder Arumita Mitra emphasized the social vision behind the initiative: “Syonna is not just a café but a social movement. We aim to provide dignified employment to women from economically weaker backgrounds, helping them rebuild their lives with confidence.” The café will serve as a hub for women’s empowerment, offering employment and training to those from marginalized or exploited backgrounds. Under its mental health initiative, a “Let’s Express Corner” will give visitors the opportunity to engage in dialogue with psychologists. Additionally, art therapy, yoga, mindfulness sessions, music, film screenings, and community programs will be hosted here. Leftover food from the café will be distributed among the needy.
