Kolkata raises the bar for women at pubs

Along standing restriction has been lifted in West Bengal, allowing women to legally work in bars and pubs. This legislative change has started a significant conversation within the state’s hospitality sector about the way ahead. CT gathered perspectives from bar owners, experienced bartenders, and aspiring female professionals to understand the practical implications and social impact of this landmark decision.




Equality, safety and a changing landscape
This legislative change goes beyond just employment opportunities. Raajiv Nathany, co-owner, LMNOQ, stated, “Apart from the employment factor, we’ll ensure safety and respect for women employees. We will modify policies and develop women-friendly infrastructure.” He added that employing women in bars challenges gender norms and reflects empowerment. Sudesh Poddar agreed, calling it “a progressive move towards a gender-inclusive work environment.” Rahul Das, assistant manager, SKAI, noted, “Women have always sought employment at bars. We’ve respected gender equality, and this change will only encourage them further.”


Encouraging more women to pursue careers in the industry
Shatbhi and Ipsita agree that the law is a step towards gender equality, but they emphasise other factors. Shatbhi says, “It’s not just the law; we’ve been doing this out of passion even before we knew we weren’t allowed. The real change lies in societal evolution and recognising skills across genders.” She believes raising awareness and encouraging families to support women in mixology and bartending are key to breaking stereotypes. Ipsita is hopeful the bill will inspire more women to pursue careers in this industry. “Kolkata and the Northeast are more accepting of women in diverse fields. I dream of an all-women team someday,” she shares.

‘As bartenders, we have the right to assert boundaries’
Shatbhi believes that the law will not directly impact safety or the work environment. “While the new law allows women to work in bars, it doesn’t establish any new industry-wide safety protocols,” she shares. Ipsita adds that safety in the alcohol industry needs to be approached from a gender-neutral standpoint. “As bartenders, we have the right to assert boundaries, but customers may not always respect that,” she explains, adding, “I believe the responsibility to ensure a safe working environment should fall on the owners & management, instead of legislative measures.”

Quotes:

Recently, a hotel management college saw a 48:52 men women of enrolment. This indicates an increase in the number of women who want to join the hospitality industry
– Sudesh Poddar, president, Hotels and restaurants Association of Eastern India and owner of Manthan, Sanghai, MS Bar and Lounge

We work in great bars and restaurants with a fantastic clientele. The fact that they have recognised that gender equality is paramount in itself is a welcome change– Shatbhi Basu, mixologist

There is a misconception about women in this industry that if she is working here, she must be open to everything. That’s something all women need to protect themselves from, and
I don’t think the new law addresses that– Ipsita Chakraborty, mixologist