New Delhi: Commonly called CR Park, it is also known as ‘Mini Kolkata’ in the heart of Delhi. Chittaranjan Park comes alive every year during the festival of Durga Puja with spectacular pandals, decorations, food, and the energy people behold. Walking through the lanes of CR Park during Durga Puja is a sensory delight for everyone who witnesses this. The intricate details, decorations, community gatherings, prayers and sweet aromas draw you in from everywhere. This is not just a festival for Bengalis, it is an invitation for everyone who loves culture, food, art, dance and learning new things about gods and goddesses. CR Park offers some of the most memorable pandals in Delhi NCR, one better than the last.
You will see pandals ranging from grand-scale setups to themed artistic marvels. These pandals experience a high footfall in the evenings and during the weekend as well. Aside from decor, the pandals offer authentic Bengali bhog and snacks for people to try and experience what true Bengali food is like. Aside from food, they host cultural programmes like dhunuchi nach, which is a vigorous and devotional folk dance performed during the aarti. Dancers hold an earthenware incense burner filled with burning coconut husk. Each pandal tries to outdo the others in terms of artistic creativity and devotion. So there’s always something new to discover.
Best pandals in CR Park
1. Cooperative Ground Durga Puja Samity
One of the oldest grounds to hold Durga Puja Pandal is hosting its 50th Durga Puja Pandal this year. Everybody is waiting for it with anticipation of being remembered. This year with Jaisalmer’s 12th century Sonar Qila or the Sonar Qila as it’s theme for Durga Puja. It is based on Satyajit Ray’s film and novel.
How to reach: The closest metro station to this pandal is Nehru Enclave Metro Station, followed by a 10-minute drive from the metro station.
Within 8 minutes of a brisk walk, you can find Annapurna Sweets in Market 2, H Block. Famous for Rosogolla and mishti doi, and a must-try.
2. Mela Ground CR Park
One of the grandest Durga Puja pandals in CR Park, the mela ground hosts extensive celebrations that bring together thousands of people every year. Known for its spectacular themes and larger-than-life idols, this year the theme is Mahishadal Rajbari- a 16th-century palatial residence of West Bengal’s Medinipur that was founded by Janardhan Upadhya, a high-ranking official in the emperor Akbar’s army.
How to reach: The nearest metro station is Nehru Enclave Metro Station, which is about a 12-minute drive away. If you wish to enjoy the famous Sandesh and Kheer kodom, take a 7-minute brisk walk to Kamala sweets in Market 1. Do not miss this sweet delight.
3. B-Block Durga Puja, CR Park
Yet another Pandal that is celebrating around 50 years of hosting Durga Puja. This one is known for traditional decorations and clever thematic ideas. The B-Block Durga Puja in CR Park is one of the oldest and most revered pandals, known for its traditional style of worship and a close-knit community. It has consistently balanced artistry with heritage and the festive spirit.
How to reach: The nearest metro is Nehru Enclave, followed by a 9-minute drive. For the foodies, Mishti Hub in Market 3 is a 6-minute walk away with a variety of Bengal sweets.
4. DakshinPalli Pocket 52, CR Park
If you are someone who loves a calmer vibe, this pandal offers authentic rituals, classical Bengali puja traditions and beautiful decor without the overwhelming and scary crowds. It is celebrated with warmth and grandeur in Pocket 52. Over the years, it has gained a reputation for blending themes with religious rituals. The visitors experience both devotion and cultural richness.
How to reach: The closest metro station remains Nehru Enclave, from where it’s a 10-minute walk. If you’re looking for Nolen Gur Sandesh, head to Balaram Mullick & Radharam Mullick in Market 2.
5. Navapalli Pocket 40, CR Park
This particular pandal focuses on cultural education and community participation. Apart from the beauty, there are folk performances and workshops, making it insightful and festive. Navapalli Durga Puja at Pocket 40 stands out for its unique ideation behind it.
How to reach: The nearest metro station is Nehru Enclave, about a 10-minute drive away from the pandal. Food enthusiasts can head to Kamala Sweets in Market 1 for their famous Patishapta and Rajbhog.
Pandal hopping is never easy, but it doesn’t have to be unorganised either. With this listicle, you can find out which one appeals to you more and head there along with food recommendations that will satiate your hunger after experiencing these artistic marvels. Don’t try to plan out everything to the detail, as the more you keep it spontaneous, the more fun it will be! Happy Durga Puja.