The air is suffused with the smell of shiuli, and you can hear the dhaak from a distance, the sound of chanting mantras, bustling streets, decorated lanes, and people going back home with shopping bags filled to the brim, Maa Aschen. A five-day celebration that started in the homes of zamindars of Bengal is now a celebration of the nation and of the world. Durga Puja marks the homecoming of goddess Durga and the victory of good over evil as the goddess killed Mahisashur, the demon. In December 2021, this festival was included in UNESCO’s list of Intangible Cultural Heritage.
The celebration has an emotional attachment with every Bengali, whether in Kolkata or across borders. It is a sentiment like none other. The main attraction is to dress up, visit pandals, and immerse in the grandeur and extravaganza. If you visit Kolkata, you’ll find a pandal in every nook and corner, the city doesn’t sleep during those days. But you don’t have to miss out on the madness if you’re not there or away from home.
As we near the days for the celebration this year, let’s have a look at the best puja pandals to visit in other cities than Kolkata:
Nivedita Enclave, Paschim Vihar (New Delhi)
Durga Puja Pandals in Delhi, Kolkata 2023: A residential society in Paschim Vihar, located in West Delhi that is known as the Bengali Colony, with over 700+ residents is home to the oldest Durgotsav in the capital city. The five days at the Nivedita Enclave is a celebration like none other as all the residents come together to organise the events, it also provides a space for small businesses to showcase their products. Currently celebrating their 39th year, this is a must-visit to enjoy puja in a homely atmosphere amidst fellow bongs!
Chittaranjan Park (New Delhi)
If you are familiar with Delhi’s Durga Puja, then you are likely aware of the puja hosted at C.R.Park. The place is known to be mostly inhabited by Bengalis. And they make it a point to visit this puja pandal. During puja, C.R. Park is a bustling location, and the committee takes care to plan various events that will heighten public fervor. Wait for their choice of bhog so you may gorge yourself on some mouthwatering prasad and become a part of the event, dance to the beat of the dhaak, and try your skills doing the dhunuchi naach.
Mayur Vihar- Kali Bari (New Delhi)
Without going to Kalibari, Durga Puja in Delhi would not be complete. Another location where Durga Puja has been celebrated for a long time is Kalibari in Mayur Vihar. The homely atmosphere and the delicious bhog attract people from afar. Additionally, it is renowned for hosting yearly theme pujas. Since residents also host other cultural events over the four-day Puja, the puja is lavishly celebrated.
Juhu Bombay Sarbojanin (Mumbai)
One of Mumbai’s largest pandals is the Juhu Bombay Sarbojanin Durga Puja Samity. A large number of Bollywood celebs stop by the pandal. If you are lucky, you might get a glimpse of your favourite celebrities, like Kajol, Jaya Bachchan, Rani Mukherjee, and others who visit this pandal, every year. The magnificent appearance of this pandal, also known as “Mukherjee Bari Pujo,” never fails to enchant Mumbai residents.
Powai Durgotsav (Mumbai)
The Durga Puja will be held and organised by the Powai Bengali Welfare Association. One of the main draws is the enormous idol of the goddess Durga, which is decked with stunning jewelry. From bhog to authentic Bengali food, Moghlai, cutlet, fish fry, and delectable mishti doi, roshogolla are also found around in the area.
Bengali Club in Shivaji Park (Mumbai)
The Bengali Club in Shivaji Park celebrates Durga Puja unlike anyone else! The pujas in the morning and the evening have a traditional feel to them. Given that it takes place within the grounds of Shivaji Park, the enormous area is transformed into a fair, with shops selling trinkets, clothing, and artifacts! Of course, there is plenty of food as well. And when you’re there, do not miss the evening aarti.
Rohi Villa Durgotsav (Pune)
One of Pune’s most famous Durga Pujas is Rohi Villa Durgotsav. The location has hosted the festival with persistent excitement and high regard for more than fifteen years. The pandal is notable for its uniqueness due to its eco-friendly ornamentation. A variety of cultural programs that highlight the best of Bengali culture are presented throughout the festival, which is held in the spirit of tradition and features a delicious puja bhog.
Banjara Function Hall (Hyderabad)
In Hyderabad’s poshest neighborhood, Banjara Function Hall has been hosting this auspicious festival for over 45 years.
