When creativity intervenes with religious sentiments, it weaves jaw-dropping sights that reflect deep devotion. With the commencement of Durga Puja, the festive season has begun in India. Durga Puja is the celebration of the triumph of good over evil. Many states of India organize Durga Puja Pandals for the nine nights of Navratri. The tunes of Garba and Dandiya fill the aura with joyful and enthusiastic vibes.
Kolkata, the place whose identity and spirituality lie within the vibrant Durga Puja, comes to life during these nine nights of Navratri. When in Kolkata during Navratri, there is no chance to miss the visit to Durga Puja Pandals across the city. However, in case you cannot be physically present, then let this article take you on a virtual visit to the best-themed Durga Puja Pandals of this year.
An Insight to Durga Puja Pandals
Durga Puja pandals are beautiful temporary constructions erected to commemorate Goddess Durga. Adorned with lights, sculptures of Goddess Durga, Ganesh, Laxmi, and Saraswati, and imaginative themes, these pandals display the skills of artists. Every year different communities come together and organize pandals. They put a lot of thought into selecting themes, that reflect social issues, mythology, and cultural legacy. Hundreds flock to witness the artwork, the vibrant ambience, and the lively atmosphere of the pandals, and immerse themselves in the devotion of Maa Durga.
What to Witness in Durga Puja Pandals?
- Artistry- Witness the lively decoration, themes, intricate sculptures, and creative designs of the goddess Durga and other deities.
- Rituals and Offerings- How can one miss the divine Aarti of Goddess Durga? Durga Aarti is the heart of Durga Pandals. One can also observe the different customs and offerings that deepen the spiritual experience.
- Cultural Performances- Enjoy the local talent, live music, traditional Garba and Dandia, and traditional attires.
- Food Stalls- When visiting the Durga Puja Pandals, one must taste the authentic Bengali delicacies, including street food and sweets.
Best-Themed Durga Puja Pandals of 2024
Salt Lake’s Rainwater Conservation-Inspired Pandal
It seems so intriguing when a Durga Puja pandal also teaches a lesson. This pandal at Salt Lake is all about worshipping Durga while creating awareness of the ”save water.” This unique pandal of Salt Lake features a serene waterfall and lyrical water droplets that replicate the signature beats of Pujor Dhaak.
Santosh Mitra Sphere, A Replica of Las Vegas Sphere
From last year’s Ayodhya Ram Janmabhoomi Temple to this year’s Las Vegas Sphere, the Santosh Mitra Square pandal has taken the theme to the next level. The artistry of this pandal, blended with the skills of the artists will transport folks to the city of lights, adorned with neon lights and sparkle decorations.
A Metro Rail-Inspired Pandal
A metro rail-inspired pandal, created at the Jagat Mukherjee Park is best for the train enthusiasts or people who are allured by the Kolkata Metro Rail. At this pandal, you will witness the life-size train models, with fine details that resemble Kolkata’s metro rail system. The pandal also give insights into the country’s first underwater rail.
Lajja-Themed Pandal
The Lajja-themed pandal of Kolkata has to be the city’s awakening pandal theme of the year. Organized on Kankugachi Road the theme ‘Lajja,’ meaning shame, is a move by the artists to highlight the violence against women. The theme serves as a protest against the recent incidents, including RG Kar rape case.
A Replica of Varanasi Ghats
This Varanasi Ghats-themed pandal is perfect for those who want to experience the majestic Ganga Aarti of Varanasi along with the mixed vibe of Durga Puja. Organized at Chetla, this breathtaking pandal replicates the ghats of Varanasi, completed with Har Har Mahadev chants.
Sati Pratha-Inspired Pandal
The Sati Pratha-inspired theme of this pandal highlights the significant role of Bengal in abolishing the Sati practice in society. The theme also throws light on the child marriage practice which is still followed in several parts of India. This theme makes aware people to stop normalizing these so-called rituals that can affect the future of children, especially girls.
All the themes of the Durga Puja Pandals reflect the deep devotion and artistic skills. The Durga Puja pandals are not only pieces of decoration but also a moment that binds together communities under one roof.
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Naina Jaggi is an author deeply rooted in Journalism, mainly writing on lifestyle, entertainment, travel, politics and financial markets. This diverse experience has allowed her to blend rich details with engaging narratives that capture the essence of various worlds. When she is not crafting tales, you’ll find her immersed in music and enjoying the company of dogs. She is also into K-dramas, thriller and horror movies that fuel her imagination, bringing the same spark to her stories.
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