Vaidehi Bhargava
Kolkata,the city of joy is one of the largest and culturally rich cities in the country known for its literary, artistic and intellectual heritage. Durga Puja one of the most important and widely celebrated hindu festival especially in West Bengal and particularly in Kolkata. The Durga Puja is celebrated with great enthusiasm, lasts ten days culminating in the grand immersion of the idols on the last day, Vijayadashmi.
Durga Puja, one of India’s most revered festivals, celebrates the divine victory of Goddess Durga over the demon Mahishasura, symbolizing the eternal triumph of good over evil. This year, Kolkata’s Durga Puja pandals have surpassed all expectations, dazzling with their inventive themes, awe-inspiring craftsmanship, and meticulous attention to detail. These temporary sanctuaries, where the goddess’s idols are enshrined, stand as magnificent testaments to the festival’s grandeur and creativity.
Las Vegas Sphere (Santosh Mitra Square)Inspired by the famous Las Vegas Sphere, this pandal takes visitors on a journey to the “city of lights,” featuring bright neon lights and flashy decorations. Last year, they recreated Ayodhya’s Ram Mandir.
Green Durga Puja (Lalabagan)
The unique Durga Puja pandal in Kolkata’s Lalabagan, created with 8,000 live plants, highlights the importance of protecting the environment and promoting eco-friendliness.
Rainwater Conservation Pandal (Salt Lake)
The Rainwater Conservation Pandal in Salt Lake is not only stunning but also environmentally friendly. It features a lovely waterfall and green decorations, creating a peaceful vibe. The sound of water droplets falling on different containers mimics the rhythm of Pujor Dhaak, adding to the festive atmosphere and making visitors feel truly immersed in the celebration.
Metro Rail Pandal (Jagat Mukherjee Park)
This pandal, complete with life-size train models and intricate details, replicates Kolkata’s metro rail system.
Sati Pratha (Kashi Bose Lane Sarbojanin)
The theme highlights Bengal’s important role in ending the practice of Sati and raises awareness about the ongoing issue of child marriage in some parts of India.
Idol made of waste materials (Dakshin Para)
Dakshinpara Durgotsav has become one of the most popular Durga Puja celebrations this year. The pandal showcases impressive creativity, being made entirely from waste materials like tools and metal sheets. The artist behind this unique creation is Debashish Barui.
Live pandal (Baguihati)
The Arjunpur Amra Sabai Club in Baguihati presents a stunning live pandal that showcases the true spirit of Kolkata’s Durga Puja. The theme addresses growing economic inequality and cultural discrimination under the current regime.
Eco-friendly designs to vibrant cultural tributes, these pandals are not just showcases of craftsmanship, but living expressions of devotion, innovation, and the festive spirit of Durga Puja. In their beauty, they invite us to see the world anew, celebrating both heritage and creativity with every intricate detail.