A Festival That Turns The City Into Art
Every autumn, Kolkata bursts into life with colours, lights, music, and spiritual energy. Durga Puja, recognised by UNESCO as an intangible cultural heritage, is not just a festival but an exhibition of creativity and cultural pride. The heart of this celebration lies in the pandals—grand installations built with months of planning and immense artistry. In 2025, the pandals highlight pressing social issues, literature, tradition, and community values, offering visitors experiences that are both devotional and thought provoking.
1. Chaltabagan Sarbojanin Durga Puja
Chaltabagan Sarbojanin pays tribute to the Bengali language with the theme “Ami Banglai Bolchi” or “I speak in Bengali.” A towering tree of languages greets visitors, symbolising the evolution and roots of Bengali, while a play inspired by Satyajit Ray’s Hirak Rajar Deshe reinforces the importance of preserving language and identity. This pandal reflects Kolkata’s tradition of blending art with cultural and political relevance.
Address: 122, Vivekananda Road, Simla, Machuabazar, Kolkata, West Bengal 700006
2. Beliaghata 33 Palli
Beliaghata 33 Palli has long been known for meaningful themes. This year, it explores the essentials of human life—food, clothing, and shelter—through layered symbolism and visual artistry. It reminds visitors of the simplicity and dignity of survival even amid grand celebrations.
Address: P 225/1, CIT Road, Subhas Sarobar Park, Phool Bagan, Beleghata, Kolkata, West Bengal 700010
3. Dum Dum Park Tarun Sangha
Dum Dum Park Tarun Sangha brings literature alive with a pandal dedicated to the fictional detective Byomkesh Bakshi. Designed like a giant comic strip, it bursts with vintage colours and panels from the golden age of Bengali thrillers. The fictional mystery “Shri Shri Durga Mandir Kanthahar Rahasya” engages visitors in a story where the goddess’s necklace goes missing, solved only by Byomkesh. It is nostalgia and artistry woven into one.
Address: 530, Dum Dum Park Road, Dum Dum Park, South Dumdum, West Bengal
4. Tala Prottoy
Tala Prottoy, celebrating its centenary year, has chosen the theme “Beej Angan” or “Seed Arena.” The idol is envisioned as a farm girl with a plough turned into a trident, symbolising the fight against environmental destruction, inflation, and food adulteration. Indigenous seeds and farming traditions are highlighted, reminding visitors of the importance of sustainability.
Address: Tala, 8/1 Rajkumar Chatterjee Road, Kolkata, West Bengal
5. Hindusthan Park Durga Puja
Hindusthan Park celebrates its 95th year with the theme “Lokoj,” which highlights Bengal’s folk roots and rural traditions. The pandal incorporates earthy tones, village crafts, and cultural symbols that bring alive the timeless spirit of Bengal’s villages. It is a nostalgic yet refreshing reminder of the state’s deep rural heritage.
Address: 51/1, Hindustan Park, Gol Park, Dhakuria, Kolkata 700029, opposite Basanti Devi College
The Spirit Of Devotion And Creativity
Each of these pandals tells a different story but together they reflect Kolkata’s enduring love for art, culture, and devotion. Durga Puja is not just about religious rituals—it is about celebrating community, creativity, and heritage in a way that no other festival can match.
If you are in Kolkata during Durga Puja 2025, make sure these five pandals are on your list. They are not just sights to behold but experiences that stay with you long after the festivities end.
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