Durga Puja is a major festival that celebrates the triumph of goddess Durga over the demon Mahishasura, whose name comes from the Sanskrit words for “buffalo” and “demon.” The festival begins on the same day as Navratri, which is observed across northern and western India over nine nights.
While Navratri broadly honours the divine feminine energy, or shakti, Durga Puja focuses on worshipping the goddess as a symbol of strength, protection, and victory of good over evil. Many cities come alive with lights and festivities.
Durga Puja in Delhi is celebrated with just as much energy and devotion. One of the highlights is pandal hopping, where people visit different venues to admire the beautifully crafted idols and decorations. With Bengali communities settled across the city, the festival has grown into a grand affair, turning parts of Delhi into a mini Kolkata filled with festive lights, music, and celebration.
CR Park Durga Puja Pandal
Chittaranjan Park, commonly called CR Park, is one of the most popular places in Delhi to experience Durga Puja. Often referred to as “mini Bengal,” it is famous for its stunning pandals, cultural programmes, and the traditional Dhunuchi Nach. The celebrations here follow religious traditions closely, making it a vibrant spot to visit. The nearest metro station is Nehru Place.
Minto Road Puja Samity
The Minto Road Durga Puja is one of the most traditional and vibrant pandals in Delhi, blending culture with rich Bengali customs. Famous for its graceful Dhunuchi Nach and soulful pushpanjali, this pandal has been a hub of festive joy since the 1940s. The closest metro station is Rajiv Chowk.
Sushant Lok Durga Puja, Gurugram
The celebration is expected to be spectacular, with the pandal crafted by well-known artist Kashinath Das. Alongside this, the venue will be filled with food and stalls offering handicrafts, clothes, Bengali sweets, and other treats.
Timarpur and Civil Lines Puja Samity
This is among the most stunning pandals in Delhi, drawing large crowds who come to enjoy the festive spirit and spend time together. Its highlight is the unique theme and the striking Durga idol. Visitors can also witness the traditional practice of taking the goddess to the immersion site on a bullock cart. The closest metro station to Timarpur and Civil Lines Puja Samity is Vishwavidyalaya.
Kashmiri Gate Durga Puja Pandal
One of Delhi’s oldest and most renowned pandals, the Delhi Durga Puja Samiti was established in 1910. Its Durga idol is truly magnificent, adorned with silver and gold decorations. The nearest metro to Kashmiri Gate Durga Pandal is Civil Lines.