Durga Puja celebrates Goddess Durga’s victory over the buffalo demon Mahishasura, symbolizing good triumphing over evil. While rooted in centuries-old religious tradition, modern grand celebrations began in the 18th century and evolved into large community festivals, attracting crowds across Kolkata.
The festival’s charm lies in its artistic pandals. Streets become open-air galleries with elaborate temporary structures, featuring themes from traditional temples to contemporary issues. These pandals attract visitors from around the world, making the festival one of India’s grandest and most celebrated cultural events.
Kumartuli Park Sarbojanin
It is one of the youngest and the prominent Durgatsab in Kolkata, displaying the grandeur of Goddess Durga in the most amazing way. The pandal combines traditional artistry with grand architectural design, reflecting the richness of Indian culture. What makes this Puja special is that it takes place in the very heart of Kumartuli, where skilled clay artisans craft the idols. These exquisite creations of Goddess Durga and other deities are not only admired locally but are also exported to countries like the US, UK, Canada, and across Southeast Asia for the Durga Puja celebrations.
Bagbazar
Bagbazar Durga Puja is one of Kolkata’s most iconic celebrations. Nestled near the Bagbazar Launch Ghat in North Kolkata, it’s known for keeping traditions alive, with a strong focus on rituals and cultural heritage. The pandal draws huge crowds from all over India, showcasing a stunningly decorated idol of Goddess Durga. Beyond the idol, visitors can enjoy lively carnival rides, bustling stalls, and vibrant exhibitions. Art and dance performances add an extra layer of charm, making Bagbazar a must-visit for anyone wanting to experience the magic of Durga Puja in its truest form.
Santosh Mitra Square
Santosh Mitra Square is one of Kolkata’s most celebrated Durga Puja pandals, renowned for its grandeur and creative themes. Situated in Central Kolkata, it has been a standout in the city’s Durga Puja celebrations since 1936. The pandal is known for blending contemporary artistry with cultural motifs, often featuring large-scale installations and impressive sculptures that create an immersive experience. Extravagant decorations, sometimes incorporating precious metals or iconic historical landmarks, add to its visual appeal. Year after year, Santosh Mitra Square draws thousands of visitors who come to admire its stunning and thoughtfully designed pandals.
Suruchi Sangha
Suruchi Sangha, located in New Alipore, is one of Kolkata’s most prestigious Durga Puja pandals. Celebrated for its scale and creativity, the pandal frequently wins awards for the best-themed decorations. Each year, it showcases themes representing different regions of India, highlighting the country’s rich cultural diversity. Intricate designs, eco-friendly materials, and elaborate lighting add to its charm, while careful attention to each state’s cultural essence creates a truly unique experience for visitors. Combining tradition, devotion, and artistic innovation, Suruchi Sangha consistently draws crowds from across the city and beyond, making it a must-visit during Durga Puja.
Sikdar Bagan Sadharan
Started in 1913, Sikdar Bagan Sadharan Durga Puja is Kolkata’s oldest Durga Puja celebration. The pandal preserves a century-old tradition, offering a rich cultural ambiance and a deeply spiritual atmosphere. Its main attraction is the beautifully crafted idol of Goddess Durga, designed with skill and creativity to bring vibrancy to the festival. While space constraints limit the scale of decorations, the pandal shines with decorative lights and a lively environment, making it a must-visit destination during Durga Puja in Kolkata.