Durga Puja, also known as Durgotsava, is a major Hindu festival celebrated annually by the Bengali community in the Indian states of West Bengal, Bihar, Assam, Odisha, Jharkhand, and Tripura. This festival honors Goddess Durga, who descended to Earth to battle the buffalo demon Mahishasura, symbolizing the victory of good over evil. The festival spans four days and is celebrated during the last five days of the nine-day Navratri festival.
When is Durga Puja 2024?
Durga Puja 2024 will be celebrated from October 9th to October 12th. Here are the key dates and rituals for Durga Puja 2024:
- October 3, 2024 (Thursday): Pratipada – Ghatasthapana, Shailputri Puja
- October 4, 2024 (Friday): Dwitiya – Chandra Darshana, Brahmacharini Puja
- October 5, 2024 (Saturday): Dwitiya
- October 6, 2024 (Sunday): Tritiya – Sindoor Tritiya, Chandraghanta Puja, Vinayaka Chaturthi
- October 7, 2024 (Monday): Chaturthi – Kushmanda Puja, Upang Lalita Vrat
- October 8, 2024 (Tuesday): Panchami – Saraswati Avahan
- October 9, 2024 (Wednesday): Shasthi – Saraswati Avahan, Katyayani Puja
- October 10, 2024 (Thursday): Saptami – Saraswati Puja, Kalaratri Puja
- October 11, 2024 (Friday): Ashtami – Durga Ashtami, Mahagauri Puja, Sandhi Puja, Maha Navami
- October 12, 2024 (Saturday): Navami, Dashami – Ayudha Puja, Navami Homa, Navratri Parana, Durga Visarjan, Vijayadashami
| Day | Date | Tithi | Rituals |
| 1st | October 3, 2024 (Thursday) | Pratipada | Ghatasthapana, Shailputri Puja. Ghatasthapana Muhurat is from 05:28 AM to 06:31 AM. |
| 2nd | October 4, 2024 (Friday) | Dwitiya | Chandra Darshana, Brahmacharini Puja. |
| 3rd | October 5, 2024 (Saturday) | Dwitiya | Dwitiya. |
| 4th | October 6, 2024 (Sunday) | Tritiya | Sindoor Tritiya, Chandraghanta Puja, Vinayaka Chaturthi. |
| 5th | October 7, 2024 (Monday) | Chaturthi | Kushmanda Puja, Upang Lalita Vrat. |
| 6th | October 8, 2024 (Tuesday) | Panchami | Saraswati Avahan. |
| 7th | October 9, 2024 (Wednesday) | Shashthi | Saraswati Avahan, Katyayani Puja. Mula Nakshatra Avahan Muhurat is from 10:25 AM to 04:42 PM. |
| 8th | October 10, 2024 (Thursday) | Saptami | Saraswati Puja, Kalaratri Puja. |
| 9th | October 11, 2024 (Friday) | Ashtami | Durga Ashtami, Mahagauri Puja, Sandhi Puja, Maha Navami. |
| 10th | October 12, 2024 (Saturday) | Navami, Dashami | Ayudha Puja, Navami Homa, Navratri Parana, Durga Visarjan, Vijayadashami. |
Significance and Traditions of Durga Puja
The origins of Durga Puja are rooted in ancient Indian scriptures. According to mythology, Mahishasura was a demon who could not be defeated by any god or man due to a boon from Lord Brahma. He caused great distress to the gods, leading Lord Brahma, along with Lord Vishnu and Lord Shiva, to create Goddess Durga to battle Mahishasura. After a fierce battle lasting ten days, Goddess Durga defeated Mahishasura.
Durga Puja commemorates this epic battle and the victory of good over evil. The festival begins with Mahalaya, marking the start of Durga’s journey to Earth. The formal festivities start on Maha Sashthi with the unveiling of Durga’s idol to the public amid traditional drumming.
Key Rituals and Celebrations
- Maha Saptami: The day starts with immersing a banana tree in water, symbolically transforming it into the “Kola Bou” (Banana Bride), placed beside Lord Ganesha.
- Maha Ashtami: This day marks Durga’s victory over Mahishasura. Devotees offer prayers and enjoy festive meals.
- Maha Navami: Begins after the Sandhi Puja and concludes with a grand Maha Aarti.
- Maha Dashami: The final day involves the immersion of Durga’s idol in the river, known as Visarjan. Married women participate in Sindoor Khela, applying vermilion to each other’s faces. The day ends with joyous processions and visits to relatives for Bijoya Dashami greetings.
Must-Visit Durga Puja Pandals in Kolkata 2024
If you are planning to visit Kolkata during the Durga Puja festival in 2024, here are some of the best pandals you should not miss. These pandals are known for their grand decorations, artistic themes, and cultural significance.
Top Durga Puja Pandals in Kolkata
- Santosh Mitra Square
- Bagbazar
- College Square
- Hindustan Park
- Hindustan Club
- Samaj Sebi Sangha
- Ballygunge Cultural Association Puja Pandal
- Deshapriya Park
- Kumartuli Park
- Ahiritola Sarbojanin Durgotsav
- Telengabagan Sarbojanin Durgotsab
- Dum Dum Park, Tarun Sangha
- Lake Town Adhibasi Brinda
- Sikdar Bagan Sadharan Durga Puja
- Nalin Sarkar Street Sarbojanin Durgotsab
- Mohammad Ali Park Durga Puja
- Manicktala Chaltabagan Lohapatty Durga Puja
- Ekdalia Evergreen Club
- Singhi Park Sarbojanin Durgotsab
- Mudiali Club
- Tridhara Sammilani Puja
- Shib Mandir Sarbajanin Durgatsab
- Bosepukur Sitala Mandir
- Naktala Udayan Sangha Puja
- Babubagan Club Sarbojanin Durga Puja
- Badamtala Ashar Sangha
- Suruchi Sangha
- Jodhpur Park Puja Pandal
Each of these pandals offers a unique experience with its distinctive theme and creative design. From traditional art forms to contemporary installations, you will find a variety of cultural expressions and artistic excellence.
Plan Your Visit
When visiting Kolkata during Durga Puja, plan your itinerary to include these pandals. Not only will you get to see the spectacular decorations, but you will also experience the rich cultural heritage and festive spirit of the city.
Santosh Mitra Square Durga Puja Pandal
Hosting Durga Puja for over 80 years, Santosh Mitra Square is renowned among the best Durga Puja pandals in Kolkata. In 2017, this pandal gained immense popularity with its London Theme, where Goddess Durga was showcased in a setting resembling Buckingham Palace.
This year, despite the challenges posed by Covid-19, the committee plans to attract large crowds. Durga idol artist Mintu Pal confirmed that this year’s idol will be traditional. Although the pandemic has limited their experimentation, the festive spirit and enthusiasm remain unchanged.
College Square Durga Puja Pandal
Located on College Street, stretching about 1.5 kilometers, College Square offers a picturesque setting for one of the must-see Durga Puja pandals in Kolkata. Established in 1948, this square is situated by a lake, and during Durgotsav, the area is beautifully decorated with lights, creating a surreal atmosphere.
In 2024, celebrating its 77th year, the organizers have decided to keep the pandal smaller due to the lingering impact of the pandemic. The idol of Goddess Durga will be less than 10 feet tall, and all government Covid guidelines will be strictly followed.
Bagbazar Durga Puja Pandal
Located along the river in North Kolkata, Bagbazar boasts a prime location and is one of the oldest Durga Puja pandals in the city, hosting celebrations for nearly a century. It is a favorite among locals who visit to witness the famous Bagbazar Sarbojanin Durgotsav & Exhibition.
Here, you can enjoy traditional puja rituals and simple decor that evoke nostalgia. During Durgotsav, a carnival takes place, offering various rides and food stalls, making it a delightful experience for all.
Hindustan Park Durga Puja Pandal
Known for drawing large crowds each year, Hindustan Park captivates visitors with its stunning themes. Hosting the puja since 1932, it has consistently grabbed attention for its meticulously chosen and skillfully executed themes. Although this year’s celebration will be smaller, the enthusiasm and festive mood will be just as delightful.
Hindustan Club Durga Puja Pandal
Situated on Sarat Bose Road, Hindustan Club is a well-known landmark in Kolkata. The club is famous for hosting Durga Puja in a traditional manner, often featuring heart-winning themes.
Each year, the club attracts large crowds with its innovative themes. As per current guidelines, devotees will view the idol from a distance. Taking pictures of the beautiful idols is highly recommended as the themes and idols change every year, making Durga Puja Pandal photography a must.
Samaj Sebi Sangha
Location: Lake View Road, South Kolkata
Samaj Sebi Sangha is famous for its traditional themes and the incorporation of social messages like women empowerment and right parenting. Every year, they celebrate Durga Puja with grandeur, aiming to spread love and kindness. This year, the celebration will be more subdued due to the pandemic, prioritizing safety.
Ballygunge Cultural Association
Location: Jatin Das Road, off Southern Avenue and Rashbehari Avenue
Ballygunge Cultural Association is known for its simple and traditional Durga Puja. Visiting this pandal feels like stepping back into the celebrations of yesteryear, with deep devotion and love for the goddess. The preparations for this puja start during Rath Yatra, making it one of the most awaited pandals in Kolkata.
Deshapriya Park Durga Puja Pandal
Location: Deshapriya Park
Deshapriya Park is renowned for its spectacular Durga Puja. Each year, it impresses visitors with unique themes, such as the White Temple of Thailand in 2017. Despite a temporary closure in 2015 due to a stampede, the pandal has regained its popularity. The idol of goddess Durga here was once touted as the largest in the world, standing at 88ft.
Kumartuli Park Puja Pandal
Location: North Kolkata, near Sovabazar Ferry
Kumartuli Park Durgotsab showcases a fusion of old-fashioned grandeur and art. This year’s idols will be around 12 ft tall, reflecting traditional Indian culture. Kumartuli, one of the oldest localities in Kolkata, is home to hundreds of artisans who sculpt idols for festivals. These idols are also exported to countries like Canada, the US, the UK, and South East Asia for Durga Puja.
Ahiritola Sarbojanin Durgotsav Puja Pandal
Location: Close to Kumartuli Park
Ahiritola Sarbojanin Durgotsav is another popular pandal near Kumartuli. Known for being a barowari type Durga Puja, it brings a mix of traditional and musical extravaganza. Established in 1940, it attracts people from all walks of life with its thematic and colorful pandal structures.
The Ahiritola Sarbojanin Durgotsav Samity organizes various musical and dance programs, social activities like blood donation camps, and free medical camps. They also generously contribute to the Minister’s Relief Fund when needed. Enthusiasts of the traditional beat of Dhaki should not miss visiting this pandal.
Over the years, Ahiritola Sarbojanin Durgotsav Samity has won numerous awards, including best Dhaki and other categories from Asian Paints Sharod Samman, Zee Bangla, Karukrit, Anandabazar, and the Kolkata Municipal Corporation.
Telengabagan Sarbojanin Durgotsab: A Glimpse into Kolkata’s Vibrant Durga Puja Celebrations
Situated along Arabinda Sarani, which links Ultadanga Main Road, the Telengabagan Sarbojanin Durgotsab beckons with its rich cultural tapestry and meticulously crafted pandals. Each year, this celebration brings forth a vivid portrayal of Indian history and culture through its uniquely designed installations and sculptures of goddess Durga and other deities.
The Telengabagan Sarbojanin Durgotsab has garnered numerous awards across different categories over the years, solidifying its reputation as a must-visit destination during Kolkata’s Durga Puja festivities in 2024.
Dum Dum Park, Tarun Sangha: Where Creativity Meets Social Consciousness
For those seeking a blend of creativity and social responsibility, the Dum Dum Park Tarun Sangha Durga Puja stands out as a beacon of innovation. Every year, this celebration showcases a plethora of themes and artistic expressions that captivate visitors with vibrant colors and imaginative designs.
According to the Dum Dum Park Tarun Sangha Durga Puja organizers, color plays a pivotal role in enhancing the festive atmosphere, making it a crucial element of their pandal decor. Additionally, their distinctive portrayal of goddess Durga’s idol adds a unique contrast to the thematic and colorful surroundings.
This year, the Dum Dum Park Tarun Sangha Durga Puja promises yet another dazzling theme, expected to draw larger crowds. Similar to 2020, the organizers aim to maintain a modest scale of celebration to minimize unnecessary expenses and uphold their commitment to responsible festivities.
Lake Town Adhibasi Brinda Puja Pandal: Celebrating Tradition and Community
The Lake Town Adhibasi Brinda Durgatsab, an emblem of homely festivities, is set to welcome Durga Puja with open arms once again this year. Established in 1963 by the residents, this Durga Puja holds a special place as a barari type celebration in Kolkata.
Unlike the grandiose structures seen in other popular pandals, the Lake Town Adhibasi Brinda Durgatsab embraces a more modest approach. Yet, its architectural designs weave themes of social awareness, pilgrimage, rural life, and contemporary events into the traditional form of Goddess Durga’s idol.
Beyond the festivities, the samity (committee) remains deeply engaged in social and cultural endeavors. They maintain parks for children, organize cultural programs featuring song, dance, drama, and recitation, and host events like blood donation camps and health checkups, extending financial assistance to the needy throughout the year.
Sikdar Bagan Sadharan Durga Puja Pandal: A Glimpse of Tradition
Step into the essence of tradition at one of Kolkata’s oldest Durga Puja celebrations, the Sikdar Bagan Sadharan Durga Puja. Here, the focus lies on showcasing the rich cultural heritage through various forms of Goddess Durga’s idols, each year.
Despite space constraints, the pandal’s structure exudes simplicity, adorned with decorative lights and clever interior designs to create a vibrant atmosphere. Over the past decade, the Sikdar Bagan Sadharan Durga Puja has emerged as a prominent fixture in Kolkata’s Durga Puja scene, drawing visitors from far and wide.
Nalin Sarkar Street Sarbojanin Durgotsab: Where Tradition Meets Artistry
For over a decade, the Nalin Sarkar Street Sarbojanin Durgotsab has been a beacon of classical elegance in Kolkata’s Durga Puja landscape. Their themes often revolve around nature and heritage, reflected in the intricate pottery work adorning the pandal and the Goddess’s idol.
Despite space limitations, the samity has garnered acclaim, winning the Best Artisan award multiple times, including accolades from Asian Paints Sharad Samman. Situated close to other renowned Durga Puja pandals in North Kolkata, a visit to Nalin Sarkar Street Sarbojanin Durgotsab is a must during the festive season.
Exploring the Magnificence of Mohammad Ali Park Durga Puja Pandal
If you’re seeking an enchanting experience during Durga Puja in North Kolkata, a visit to the Mohammad Ali Park Durga Puja is a must. Every year, this event captivates visitors with its splendid architecture and cultural showcases.
Since its inception, the Mohammad Ali Park Durga Puja Samity has been dedicated to bringing replicas of monuments from around the world to light, along with dioramas depicting ancient literature. Despite evolving architectural trends, the samity has steadfastly preserved its age-old culture and traditions, evident in its exquisite artistic endeavors.
The pandal’s interior and exterior decorations, intricately themed, never fail to delight the eye. The venue comes alive with simple yet elegant illuminations, while the entire park area dazzles with vibrant, colorful lighting arrangements.
Notably, the Mohammad Ali Durga Puja Samity has garnered numerous awards across different categories, solidifying its status as one of Kolkata’s most esteemed Durga Puja celebrations.
The Prestige of Manicktala Chaltabagan Lohapatty Durga Puja
Another jewel in Kolkata’s Durga Puja crown is the Manicktala Chaltabagan Lohapatty Durga Puja. Established in 1943 by the visionary founder president, Shri Lakhi Chand Jaiswal, this celebration has earned accolades such as the Best Puja Award in 1997 and the Best Artisan Award in 2002 from Asian Paints Sharad Samman.
From its humble beginnings, the puja has grown into a grand spectacle, drawing massive crowds during its Golden Jubilee Year in 1992 and gaining widespread popularity in 2006.
Over the years, the samity has maintained its tradition of creating a unique festive atmosphere in Kolkata during Durga Puja. Festivities include Dhaki competitions, Dhunuchi dances, and Sindoor Khela, enhancing the celebratory spirit for all who attend.
Ekdalia Evergreen Club Puja Pandal
Ekdalia Evergreen Club Durgotsab Samity has a reputation for simplicity coupled with artistic excellence. Each year, they astound visitors with their meticulous attention to detail, both inside and outside the pandal. Their themes range from a German village to the Golden Temple in Vellore, showcasing a diverse array of cultural influences. However, what truly sets them apart is their preservation of the age-old tradition of crafting the Durga pratima, making their puja a truly unique experience in Kolkata.
Singhi Park Sarbojanin Durgotsab
Adjacent to the Ekdalia Evergreen Club stands the Singhi Park Sarbojanin Durgotsab, a bastion of tradition in Kolkata’s Durga Puja scene. Established in 1941, this puja has stood the test of time, maintaining its traditional worship practices while innovating with each passing year. With awards in various categories, including innovative pandal structures and exquisite lighting, Singhi Park Sarbojanin Durgotsab has earned its place among Kolkata’s most renowned pandals.
Mudiali Club Durga Puja Pandal
In South Kolkata, the Mudiali Club Durgotsab captivates visitors with its grandeur and creativity. Winner of multiple awards, including the prestigious Asian Paints Sharad Samman Best Puja, Mudiali Club leaves a lasting impression with its elaborate pandal structures and intricate decorations. From depicting the Mukteshwar Temple of Orissa to exploring rural Bengal, each year brings a new theme that reflects the club’s commitment to excellence and innovation.
These three puja pandals exemplify the rich cultural tapestry of Kolkata’s Durga Puja celebrations. Whether it’s the traditional practices of Ekdalia Evergreen Club, the timeless elegance of Singhi Park Sarbojanin Durgotsab, or the creative brilliance of Mudiali Club, each offers a unique experience that celebrates the spirit of community and devotion during this joyous festival.
Tridhara Sammilani Puja Pandal
Nestled at the intersection of Rashbehari Avenue, Monohar Pukur Road, and Mahanirban Road, the Tridhara Sammilani Durgotsav is a beloved fixture of South Kolkata’s Puja scene. More than just a gathering of devotees, it symbolizes the convergence of generations and ideologies – the Seniors, the Present, and the Future Youth. Here, tradition intertwines seamlessly with culture and social activism.
Shib Mandir Sarbajanin Durgatsab
A cornerstone of Kolkata’s Durga Puja festivities, the Shib Mandir Sarbajanin Durgatsab draws throngs of visitors annually. Since its inception in 1999, this pandal has been a beacon of innovation. Each year brings forth a new theme, from intricate replicas of terracotta art to vibrant depictions of cultural icons like Lord Buddha.
Bosepukur Sitala Mandir
Known for its rustic charm, the Bosepukur Sitala Mandir transports visitors to the heart of rural West Bengal. Despite the subdued lighting of its pandal, the jubilation of the celebration resonates throughout. Notably, funds typically allocated for pandal decorations have been redirected towards Covid-19 awareness initiatives, reflecting the community’s resilience and compassion during challenging times.
Naktala Udayan Sangha Puja Pandal
Innovation and creativity are the hallmarks of the Naktala Udayan Sangha’s Durga Puja pandal. Since its inception in 1950, this pandal has captivated audiences with its distinctive architecture and avant-garde idol designs. From thematic transformations to thought-provoking installations, each year offers a fresh perspective on tradition and artistry.
Babubagan Club Sarbojanin Durga Puja
Steeped in history and tradition, the Babubagan Club Sarbojanin Durga Puja has become a symbol of heritage and grandeur. Established in 1962, this puja committee has garnered numerous accolades, including the prestigious Best Puja award. Its elaborate replicas of heritage sites and ancient temples evoke a sense of nostalgia and wonder among visitors.
As you explore Kolkata’s diverse array of Durga Puja pandals, you’ll witness not only the fervor of devotion but also the boundless creativity and community spirit that define this cherished festival. Join us in celebrating the rich tapestry of culture and tradition that is Kolkata’s Durga Puja.
Badamtala Ashar Sangha Puja Pandal
For over 75 years, Badamtala Ashar Sangha has held a special place in the hearts of Kolkata’s residents. From its humble beginnings, this puja pandal has evolved into a symbol of simplicity and creativity. In 2010, the Samity received the prestigious Creative Excellence Award from Asian Paints, marking a significant milestone in its journey. Today, Badamtala Ashar Sangha stands as one of Kolkata’s beloved Durga Pujas, cherished by millions for its enduring charm and cultural significance.
Suruchi Sangha Puja Pandal
Suruchi Sangha captivates visitors with its cultural splendor and thematic displays, which highlight a different Indian state each year. The pandal’s Durga idols are meticulously crafted to reflect the distinctive styles of each region. Despite being over 50 years old, Suruchi Sangha gained widespread recognition in 2003 when it won the award for Best Decorated Pandal, a feat it repeated in 2009. The attention to detail in its artwork is truly remarkable.
Jodhpur Park Puja Pandal
Renowned as one of South Kolkata’s premier pandals, Jodhpur Park Durga Puja delights visitors with its diverse themes, ranging from traditional to contemporary. Last year, due to safety concerns amid the pandemic, access to the idol hall was restricted, and devotees enjoyed live streams of the puja ceremonies. As we eagerly anticipate this year’s festivities, we remain hopeful for a return to the joyous celebrations of the past.
Celebrating the Spirit of Durga Puja
Durga Puja transcends mere celebration; it embodies an enduring emotion that brings joy and enthusiasm to people’s lives, even in the face of adversity. This festival, rooted in the victory of good over evil, instills hope and positivity in all who partake in its rituals. As we immerse ourselves in the vibrant festivities of Durga Puja, let us prioritize safety and adhere to guidelines, ensuring a joyful and safe experience for all.