Last Updated on October 14, 2026 8:02 pm by INDIAN AWAAZ
By: Aafreen Hussain / Kolkata
West Bengal’s capital has burst into a breathtaking showcase of art, faith, and grandeur as Durga Puja celebrations sweep across Kolkata. Featuring magnificent pandals, striking art installations, and dazzling light displays, the metropolis has transformed into a vibrant cultural carnival. Blending age-old devotion with modern technology and creative design, the festival is drawing thousands of excited visitors from across India and around the globe.
Under the leadership of Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari, the state is experiencing the festive spirit of Durga Puja, while former Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee has also been associated with the inauguration of several prominent puja pandals. From the famous Mohammed Ali Park in central Kolkata to celebrated puja venues across north and south Kolkata, the festivities are drawing crowds of devotees and visitors.
Howrah Station Area Embraces Modern Technology
The area surrounding Howrah Station has emerged as an attraction during the festive season, with special decorations and artistic presentations adding to the celebrations. Drone-created visuals and innovative decorative arrangements are drawing attention, offering visitors a glimpse of Kolkata’s festive grandeur as soon as they arrive in the city.
As one of India’s major railway junctions, Howrah Station receives thousands of passengers daily. During Durga Puja, the festive decorations around the station provide visitors with an early introduction to the cultural vibrancy of Kolkata.
Mohammed Ali Park Remains a Major Attraction
Mohammed Ali Park in central Kolkata is among the city’s renowned Durga Puja destinations. Every year, its organisers strive to attract visitors through distinctive themes, elaborate pandal designs and artistic representations of Goddess Durga.
The surrounding streets, markets and neighbourhoods take on a festive appearance, while devotees and visitors gather to admire the decorations and the artistic craftsmanship displayed at the venue.
From North to South Kolkata, Pandals Showcase Creativity
One of the defining features of Kolkata’s Durga Puja is the diversity of its celebrations. Traditional puja mandaps in north Kolkata stand alongside contemporary, theme-based pandals in the southern parts of the city.
Some installations draw inspiration from historical architecture, while others highlight rural Bengal, folk art, environmental conservation and social messages. Santosh Mitra Square, Sreebhumi, Chorbagan, Baguiati and Ahiritola remain among the prominent puja destinations known for their distinctive decorations, lighting and idols.
Mamata Banerjee’s Association with Puja Inaugurations
Former Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee has participated in the inauguration of various Durga Puja pandals over the years. Her presence at these events has added prominence to several celebrations. Puja committees begin preparations months in advance, bringing together artists, sculptors, craftsmen, decorators and technical experts to create elaborate installations.
International Visitors Add to the Festive Spirit
Kolkata’s Durga Puja is more than a religious celebration; it represents Bengal’s artistic heritage, cultural identity and community life. Visitors arrive from different Indian states, while Indians living abroad and international tourists also show interest in experiencing the festivities.
The rhythmic beats of traditional dhak, beautifully crafted idols, illuminated streets and the aroma of Bengali cuisine contribute to the festival’s unique appeal.
Durga Puja also creates significant economic opportunities for tourism, hotels, transport services, food businesses and small traders. Thousands of artists and craftsmen contribute to the celebrations through idol-making, pandal construction and decorative work.
As families explore pandals, friends reunite and visitors enjoy the city’s lively streets, Kolkata once again emerges as a magnificent meeting point of faith, art, culture and modernity. The city’s festive transformation offers residents and visitors alike a memorable experience of Bengal’s celebrated Durga Puja tradition.