Tirur: Once worked as a construction labourer in Tirur, Akram, a native of Burdwan in West Bengal, today is the proud owner of 'Imran Kolkata Hotel’, a unique establishment offering authentic Bengali cuisine in the heart of Kerala.

The idea for the hotel came to Akram while cooking for fellow workers in a mess. He realised there was a need for a space where Bengali guest workers could enjoy food reminiscent of home. After saving for 15 years, Akram invested ₹1.5 lakh from his earnings and borrowed another ₹1.5 lakh from his father in Bengal to launch his dream project.

Located near Kott A M U P School on Tirur Bus Stand-Chembra Road, the hotel offers a menu entirely in Bengali, catering to the tastes of its primary patrons—Bengali guest workers. Dishes like Bengali biryani, samosa, masala bonda and chicken curry have made the hotel a popular destination, attracting up to 100 customers daily.

Akram’s journey was not without challenges. As a non-local, securing loans was nearly impossible, but his determination and family support helped him overcome financial barriers. Today, his wife Hareeda supports him in running the hotel, which has become a hub for the Bengali community in Tirur.