The Punjabees constitute a large chunk of the population of Calcutta. In fact, their number far surpasses those of other tribes and clans, who have migrated to Calcutta in pursuit of jobs or studies from time to time and settled down as permanent denizens of the metropolis. Not only in Calcutta or Bengal for that matter, but innumerable Punjabees are seen in all the Indian states and even abroad. They are found living sporadically at all places in the city of joy. They prefer to take up any form of business or start an enterprise irrespective of place, time or any other criteria. They are tremendously bold, daring and intrepid optimists who only believe in surging ahead in life by crushing all impediments that might crop up.

The original homeland of the Punjabees is Punjab, an Indian state lying on the Northwest frontier adjacent to Pakistan. It is probably the soil, air, water and the climate, which is inclement at times, that makes the Punjabees so brave, tough and sedulous. They are generally endowed with robust statures and can do miracles in all works which require strength, stamina and courage. These industrious people have always made our country proud in several fields like irrigation and warfare. Simultaneously, they have made miraculous advancement in technology, art and crafts, commerce and business etc.

The Punjabees hog the attention easily in a rabble because of their robust statures, colourful attire and particularly the 'pagdis', tied on their heads. Most of the men grow moustache and beards and are fond of wearing 'Punjabi-Pajama or Punjabi with 'Lungi'. The women prefer wearing Salwar Kameez.

However, in Calcutta, the Punjabees are not required for tilling of soil. Several Punjabees come here in search of jobs, better living standards and a favourable climate. Majority of them run some business or the other in Calcutta. In fact, the Punjabees constitute a very large proportion of the business community in Calcutta, whether in big or small scale. They pervade everywhere in the city from import export of precious commodities to running stationary shops. They are very honest and religious minded and by dint of sheer perseverance, they reach the pinnacle of success in any work they do. They cannot dream of being timorous or sitting idle and love to be in the thick of action.

'Driving' is another profession in which the Punjabees of Calcutta have displayed exceptional skill and consistency. They are indubitably remarkable in driving the big vehicles like trucks, lorries, vans etc. They are also the front-runners in driving cabs. Au reste, the Punjabi cuisine is also very popular in Calcutta. So, umpteen Punjabi hotels and restaurants have cropped up in the metropolis to satisfy the palates of the Bengali gourmet. Today, the Calcuttans simply cannot do away with the Punjabi 'Dhabas'.

The Punjabees are simple at heart and are amiable by nature. They have adapted themselves nicely with the tradition, culture and life of Calcutta and literally become an integral part of the city of joy.