Durga Puja In Kolkata is a popular Hinduism festival celebrated annually in the whole world, mainly in India. This great festival is dedicated to goddess Durga and is also celebrated to mark the victory of Goddess Durga over Mahishasura a demon.
Durga puja is celebrated mostly by Hindus all over the world. Durga puja is mostly popular in many Indian states like West Bengal, Odisha, Bihar, Uttar Pradesh, etc. Durga puja In Kolkata is considered as the main festival of West Bengal and is celebrated with great joy and enthusiasm.
According to the Hindu calendar, this great festival is celebrated in the month of Ashwin. During September–October all over the country. It is celebrated for ten days with great joy and enthusiasm out of which the last five are celebrated with more interest with a great number of rituals.
This festival is dedicated is Goddess Durga but these great celebrations also include other major gods and goddesses of Hinduism such as the goddess of wealth and prosperity- Goddess Laxmi, the goddess of knowledge and music- Goddess Saraswati, The god of good beginnings- Lord Ganesha, and The god of war- Lord Kartikeya who are believed to be the children of Goddess Durga according to Odia traditions.
Durga Puja in Kolkata is believed to mark the visit of Goddess Durga to her parent’s home with her beloved children from Kailash parvat. The festival is started by Mahalaya, which is believed to mark the start of Goddess Durga’s journey to her parent’s home.
Durga Puja in Kolkata
Durga Puja in Kolkata is the most popular of all festivals celebrated in Kolkata to honor Goddess Durga during the nine days of Navratri. It is celebrated for 10 days and the beautiful Pandals with grand idols of Goddess Durga are open for visitors. On the last day of puja, also known as Dashami, the idols of goddesses are immersed in water with grand celebrations and processions.
Durga Puja Pandals in Kolkata
Every year, Kolkata, the capital city of West Bengal brings a new theme to Durga Puja pandals, which are unique and innovative in their way. Each Durga puja pandal in Kolkata is decorated according to its theme. Durga puja is famous across the world and it was also included in UNESCO’s representative list of intangible cultural heritage of humanity in 2021.
These unique and innovative themes of Kolkata Durga Puja Pandals attract thousands of tourists from all over the world to enjoy the beauty of pandals and celebration which make Durga Puja one of the greatest events in India. The beautiful theme-based unique pandals are the major attractions of Durga puja in Kolkata.
Why Durga Puja is Celebrated in Kolkata
As per Hindu mythology, Durga Puja in Kolkata is Celebrated every year to mark the victory of good over evil. In which goddess Durga, goddess of strength overcame the evil power and defeated the demon Mahishasura, who had gained a boon from Lord Brahma that no man or animal can kill him, but a woman killed him and eradicated evil from the earth.
On this day, the great Lord Rama had also defeated Ravana, an evil power who had kidnapped goddess Sita and wanted to marry her. Goddess Sita who is the wife of Lord Rama.
People celebrate Durga puja every year to worship Goddess Durga and invite her to earth from Kailash parvat to remove evil from earth. Durga is the goddess of strength who overcame all the evil powers. It is believed that during Durga puja goddesses come to earth to shower blessings upon her children and devotees.
North Kolkata Durga Puja
North Kolkata Durga Puja List is a huge grand and culturally significant festival that annually attracts millions of devotees, tourists, and art enthusiasts. The northern part of Kolkata is particularly famous for its traditions and artistic approach to celebrating Durga puja.
North Kolkata is well known for its artistic creativity and elaborate pandals. Every year these Pandals displays unique design that reflects cultural, historical, or contemporary Themes. In north Kolkata, it is not just a religious festival but Durga Puja is also a cultural extravaganza.
The festivals include the worship of Goddess Druga and other gods, cultural performances, and immersion ceremonies. The streets of north Kolkata are adorned with colorful lights and decorations, creating a vibrant and festive aura and atmosphere. Some of the most Iconic Durga Pujas in North Kolkata include Kumartuli, Sarbojanin, Ahiritola Sarbojonin, Bagbazar Sarbojanin, and College Square Durga Puja.
The streets around the pandals in North Kolkata Come alive with wider options of street food stalls and vendors selling traditional Bengali sweets and snacks. Enjoying these delectable dishes is an integral part of the Durga Puja Experience.
Durga Puja in North Kolkata is a magnificent and culturally significant festival that blends religious traditions with art, community, and cultural celebrations. It is the time when the city comes alive with creativity and fervor, making it a must-visit destination during the Festive time. Below are some top 10 North Kolkata Durga Puja Pandals This year.
1. Kumartuali Park
2. Baghbazar Sarbojanin
3. Sovabazar Rajbari
4. Hatibagan Sarbojanin
5. Ahiritola Sarbojanin Durgotsav
6. College Square
7. Jagat Mukharjee Park
8. Telengabagan
9. Shreebhumi Spoorting Club
10. Pallir Jubak Brina Club
South Kolkata Durga Puja
The rush has already begun. This year, Durga Puja in Kolkata will start Durga Puja on the 15th of October and conclude on the 24th. It is a time of mass gatherings, when Bengali people from different parts of the world travel to reunite with family and friends, amplifying the joyous atmosphere.
The pandals of Kolkata are examples of the city’s artistic expression and creativity, and due to the fierce and healthy competition for the most innovative and beautiful pandal designs, there are breathtaking displays that draw millions of tourists each year.
south Kolkata is another hub of grand Durga Puja celebrations in the city of Kolkata. The southern part of the city has a unique flavor and style when it comes to observing this festival. Durga Puja in South Kolkata is known for its massive footfall, leading to traffic congestion and crowded streets.
It’s advisable to plan your visits during off-peak hours or use public transportation to avoid the crowds. Durga Puja in South Kolkata is a grand celebration that combines artistic expression, cultural festivities, and religious rituals.
The fusion of tradition and modernity, along with the vibrant social atmosphere, makes it a captivating experience for locals and visitors alike. South Kolkata’s Durga Puja is a testament to the city’s rich cultural heritage and creativity. The South Kolkata pandals that need to be on your list this year in your checklist may be:-
1. Ekdalia Evergreen Club, Ballygunge
2. Chetla Agrani Club, Chetla
3. Singhi Park, Ballygunge
4. Santoshpur Lake Pally, Santoshpur
5. Tridhara Sammilani
6. Mudiali Club
7. Hindustan Park
8. Badamtala Ashar Sangha
9. Jodhpur Park
10. Suruchi Sangha
Durga Puja Best Pandals | Famous Durga Puja In Kolkata
Kolkata is well-known for its grand and artistic Durga Puja Pandals and there are many exceptional ones to visit during the festival of Durga Puja. The best pandal often varies from year to year, as each strives to outdo the other with innovative themes and designs. However, some pandals have consistently earned a reputation for their grandeur and creativity.
The popularity and reputation of Durga Puja pandals can vary from year to year, and new pandals with outstanding themes and designs often emerge. This Joyous festival is more than just a religious event. One of the most fascinating aspects of Durga Puja is the resplendent Durga pandals scattered across the city and this year, it is said as per belief, that Maa Durga will be arriving into the lives of the people and believers.
The city would be decked in Vibrant colors where the sparkling lights all around would not only brighten the darkest corner but also brighten your heart. It is the time to see people in traditional clothes, it is the time to see people dance to the rhythm of dhol beats.
The top 10 Pandals during Durga Puja are
1. Sree Bhumi Sporting Club:- Paris Disneyland
It is one of the most celebrated pujas in Kolkata and they come up with something special every year. Last year, it was Vatican City. The year before that, it followed the Burj Khalifa theme. This year, Sree Bhumi has taken up the gargantuan task of bringing Paris Disneyland to life amid the hustle and bustle of north Kolkata. From the posts on Facebook, they seem to be doing a stellar job of it. Don’t miss the Sree Bhumi puja if you are in Kolkata.
2. Santosh Mitra Square:- Ayodhya Ram Mandir
may be slated to open only in January 2024, but the organizers of the famous Santosh Mitra Square puja in Lebutala, Bowbazar, look all set to beat the main temple in Ayodhya replicating during this year’s Durga Puja From videos posted on social media, even the minutest details on the walls seem to have been reproduced with the finest precision
3. College Square:- Mysore Palace
College Square is most well-known for its lights and will have another attraction to make it a must-visit this time. It is set to replicate the majestic Mysore Palace in the heart of the city, excited people of Kolkata have already posted several pictures of the grand pandal being built and, with the famous College Square lights reflecting on the pool, it promises to be a brilliant sight to behold! Remember to be at College Square for sure.
4. Pallir Yubak Brinda:- Chadrayaan-3
The success of Chandrayaan-3 was earlier celebrated at the Mumbai Ganpati festival, and now, North Kolkata is all set to see Vikram and Pragyan land in their midst, thanks to Pallir Yubak Brinda at Sitaram Ghosh Street. The Goddess is reportedly about to arrive aboard Chandrayaan To know more, you must make sure you are there during Durga to see the Devi’s arrival in this narrow lane off Amherst Street.
5. Ahiritola Sarbojanin Durgotsab:- Gujarat’s Somnath temple
Another extremely renowned name, the Ahiritola puja in north Kolkata’s Beniatola is about to recreate the gorgeous Somnath temple of Gujarat. The theme has been officially named Avinaswar which means Eternal an apt title for a theme based on a temple that was rebuilt despite being destroyed 17 times. The 30-foot-tall pandal sure promises to be a treat this Durga Puja.
6. Naktala Udayan Sangha:- Anti-ragging
The organizers of the well-known Naktala Udayan Sangha in south Kolkata have decided to spread the message of anti-ragging this year, understandably after the issue rocked the city’s premier educational institution Jadavpur University in August. The pandal’s theme highlight the evils of ragging and educates people on how to eliminate it from society.
7. Mudiali Club:- All metal, no fabric
Another of South Kolkata’s most recognized names, Mudiali Club has decided to go all metal, no fabric this year. The theme is officially named Somaroho Splendor. Though they have kept their cards close to their chest, going by what Mudiali club does every year, their all-metal pandal will surely be something to be missed.
8. Ekdalia Evergreen Club:- Jain Temple, Maharashtra
Ekdalia Evergreen near the busy Gariahat crossing is another puja not to be missed in any case. This year during Durga puja, they are reportedly bringing Maharashtra’s ancient Jain temple to life. With the pictures of the interiors of the pandal posted on social media, it seems like Gariahat is set for a grand affair, with Singhi Park right across the street also set for a grand pandal.
9. Singhi Park:- Rajasthan puppet dance
The other biggie of Gariahat, Singhi Park, will give Kolkatans a slice of Rajasthan with its theme based on the western state’s famous puppet dance. The organizers have announced on social media that the puppet dance can be enjoyed live inside their pandal this year, but electromechanically.
10. Babubagan Sarbojanin:- Museum of Jodhpur
This well-recognized name in South Kolkata is also known for coming up with unique themes and executing those with precision. From its coin theme last year to the library the year before, Babubagan is well-known for creating an impression. Though not much information is available yet, Babubagan’s theme this year is reportedly the Museum of Jodhpur. That would be something to watch out for.
Frequently Asked Questions
When is Durga puja celebrated in Kolkata?
According to the Hindu calendar, this great festival of Durga Puja in Kolkata is celebrated in the month of Ashwin. During September–October all over the country. It is celebrated for ten days with great joy and enthusiasm out of which the last five are celebrated with more interest with a great number of rituals.
Which are some of the best Durga Puja Pandals in Kolkata?
With the most elaborate and innovative themes, these Kolkata Durga Puja Pandals attract people from all over the world and make Durga Puja one of the greatest events in India. So, here we present to you the best Durga Puja Pandal in Kolkata.
Kumartuli Park
Ahritola Sarbajanin Durgatsab
Mohammed Ali Park Durga Puja
Sreebhumi Sporting Club
Sikdar Bagan Sadharan Durga Puja
Dum Dum Park Tarun Sangha
Why do we celebrate Durga puja every year?
Hindus celebrate Durga puja every year to mark the victory of good upon evil and it is believed that goddess Durga comes to her parent’s house on earth during Durga Puja from Kailash parvat. So, people celebrate Durga puja with all their hearts and seek the blessings of goddess Durga.
Which religion celebrates Durga puja the most?
Hindu religions celebrate Durga puja with great joy and enthusiasm every year in September, and October. They worship the goddess Durga for 10 days.
When will Durga puja be celebrated in 2023?
In 2023, Mahalaya is on 14th October and 1st puja will be started on 15th October and Vijay Dashami is on 24th October, 2023.
Why is Durga Puja important for Bengalis?
The day is celebrated as Maa Durga kills the demon king Mahishasuran during Durga puja. It’s the victory of good over evil and it is the day for new beginnings. So, Durga Puja in Kolkata is a popular festival celebrated in Kolkata. The Durga puja pandal of Kolkata is the major attraction for tourists during the puja.
What is unique in Durga puja Pandals of Kolkata?
The famous Durga Puja pandal in Kolkata is known for its vibrant and artistic decorations. The pandal is designed based on the theme selected. Each pandal of Kolkata is unique for its theme-based design and decoration.
Which are the famous Durga Puja pandals in North Kolkata?
Ahiritola Sarbojanin Durgotsab, Bagbazar, Mohammad Ali Park, and College Square are the famous places for Durga Puja in North Kolkata
Name some of the famous Durga Puja pandals in South Kolkata.
The puja pandals in Hindustan Park, Ballygunge Cultural Association, Deshapriya Park, Maddox Square, and Suruchi Sangha are the some of popular puja pandals in South Kolkata.
Name some of the famous Durga Puja pandals in South Kolkata.
The puja pandals in Hindustan Park, Ballygunge Cultural Association, Deshapriya Park, Maddox Square, and Suruchi Sangha are the some of popular puja pandals in South Kolkata.