Visit these top 6 Durga Puja pandals around India

Durga Puja is not only a religious event but also a cultural and social celebration. In fact, the Durga Puja festival in Kolkata has earned a spot on UNESCO’s cultural heritage list due to its grandeur and historical significance.

The festival’s most significant period spans the final five days when various rituals and ‘pujas’ are conducted in elaborately decorated structures called pandals. These pandals are often larger and more ornate than simple altars or porches — serving as temporary homes for the idols of Goddess Durga and other deities.

Kolkata, in particular, is renowned for its magnificent Durga Puja pandals, each offering a unique blend of tradition and creativity. Here are some of the legendary Durga Puja pandals that are worth visiting:

Ekdalia Evergreen

Located near Gariahat, this famous Durga Puja pandal in Kolkata is known for its vibrant and artistic decorations, often resembling replicas of renowned Hindu temples.

Badamtala Ashar Sangha

A fixture in Kolkata’s Durga Puja scene for over 80 years, this pandal near Kalighat is famous for its beautiful yet simple idols and displays.

Outside of Kolkata, Durga Puja celebrations extend to other parts of India, each with its unique charm:

Visit these pandals during Durga Puja to celebrate the festivities. (Source: Freepik)

Chittaranjan Park Mela Ground Durga Puja (Delhi)

Often referred to as “mini-Bengal,” Chittaranjan Park in South Delhi provides an authentic Bengali cultural experience. The Durga Puja celebration includes beautifully crafted pandals, music festivals, and dance performances throughout the festival.

Bengali Club’s Durgotsav (Mumbai)

This is one of the oldest and largest Durga Puja pandals in Mumbai. Located near Shivaji Park in Dadar West, it is known for its eco-friendly idols made from mud and chemical-free paints.

Lokhandwala Durgotsav (Mumbai)

Headed by the Lokhandwala Durgotsav Committee, this pandal is a popular destination for celebrities. Bollywood playback singer Abhijeet Bhattacharya is the president of the organising team. The festivities take place at the Lokhandwala Durga Puja Ground in Andheri (West).

ALSO READ | Breaking taboos: Durga Puja Pandal in Kolkata champions menstrual hygiene

Jayamahal Durga Puja (Bangalore)

Among the oldest celebrations in Bangalore, Jayamahal Durga Puja is unique as it is the city’s only themed puja. In addition to the puja rituals, cultural programmes are held from Sasthi to Navami, offering a blend of traditions and indulgences.

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