Exploring Durga Puja pandals in South Kolkata
Durga Puja is when the City of Joy truly lives up to its name. The heart of cultural expression, South Kolkata's Durga Puja pandals are known for their artistic extravagance, each year trying to outdo the previous in its visual and cultural appeal. Each pandal is a testament to the city's unwavering devotion to the Goddess and its love for artistic expression.
Suruchi Sangha
This year, Suruchi Sangha, a well-known Durga Puja pandal in South Kolkata turned 70, marking a momentous occasion. Suruchi Sangha's depiction of West Bengal's arts and culture during this festival is well known. This exquisite puja mandap reflects every aspect of Bengali village life, from Vedic art to clay photo art. The mandap's decor will have handicrafts sourced from different regions of Bengal.
Mudiali Club Sarbojonin Durga Puja
The Mudiali Club on Rajani Sen Road is well-known for its yearly Durga Puja pandals. In honor of the magnificent ceremonies marking their 89th year, the pandal committee has chosen to curate and present something different. The club opted for all metal and no fabric for the mandap. The elaborate decorations of the pandal make it a delight to visit and explore.
Chetla Agrani Club
Chetla Agrani Club enters its 31st year of existence as it brings the theme of Je Jekhane Darie, which will display an individual's struggle between fate and destiny. The novelty of this year is found in the design installations in the pandal that depict the everyday life of the working class and the aspirations of the more established members of society.
Singhi Park Sarbojanin
Singhi Park Sarbojanin has chosen the theme 'Nakshighore Putul Raj' for this year's celebration, incorporating beautiful background music in traditional Bengali tunes to create a serene atmosphere. Their inspiration is drawn from the popular puppet dance of Rajasthan. The use of vibrant paintings depicting daily life, along with the presence of Rajasthani Putul Nach dancers, infuses the place with energy and vibrancy.
Ekdalia Evergreen Club
The Ekdalia Evergreen Club is one of the most popular Durga puja pandals in Kolkata, drawing thousands of visitors each year. Since their founding in 1943, they have persistently focused on the theme of ancient artworks and replicas of World Heritage Sites. According to reports, they are reviving the historic Jain temple in Maharashtra for Durga Puja this year.