Durga Puja is not merely a festival; it is the essence of Bengali sentiment. The true joy of this celebration lies in the worship of Goddess Durga, the playful smearing of vermilion, and the indulgence in various delectable Bengali cuisines.
While Durga Puja remains the pinnacle of Bengali festivities, its observance extends to multiple cities across India. From Kolkata to Mumbai and Delhi, each urban center's celebration boasts its own unique characteristics. Kolkata's Durga Puja is renowned throughout the nation. Thousands flock from far and wide to witness the city's themed pujas and artistic creations. Moreover, people from various regions converge to behold Kolkata's traditional mother goddess idols. To draw a comparison between Kolkata's puja and the rest of the world would be, in a word, impossible.
How Mumbai celebrates Durga Puja
In Mumbai, Durga Puja is celebrated with a fusion of traditional Bengali rituals and the city's inherent vibrant spirit. Massive pandals are erected in areas such as Shivaji Park and Matunga, drawing throngs of devotees annually. Furthermore, luminaries like Kajol, Rani Mukerji, and Kumar Sanu are associated with Mumbai's puja committees. The pandals here are replete with stalls offering mouthwatering Bengali cuisine.
Guwahati in Assam observes a ten-day Durga Puja, where traditional Bengali customs intertwine with Assamese culture. Each year, the pandals and idols here attract numerous devotees. The Puja days are marked by various fairs, exhibitions, and cultural programs that showcase Assam's heritage.
Delhi's style
Delhi, too, celebrates Durga Puja on a grand scale. Bengali-dominated areas like Chittaranjan Park and Kalkaji are famous for their pujas. Alongside time-honored traditions, the pandals here feature an array of food stalls, further enhancing the festive joy. Some popular pandals in Delhi include those at Kali Bari, Kashmere Gate, Mayur Vihar-1, and Chittaranjan Park's Kali Bari.
Patna has now emerged as a popular destination for witnessing Durga Puja. Various neighborhoods here engage in fierce theme-based competitions. This year, the Patna Municipal Corporation has created 10 artificial water bodies near the Ganges ghats, facilitating eco-friendly idol immersion.
In Kullu, Durga Puja is celebrated as 'Kullu Dussehra'. This festival honors Ram's victory over Ravana, symbolizing the triumph of good over evil. The celebrations span over a week.
Pune, too, observes Durga Puja with great pomp and show. Here, the festival concludes with idol immersion amidst grand processions and fireworks. In Pune, the goddess's idol is adorned with flowers, leaves, and fruits. One of the oldest and most renowned pujas here is the Congress Bhavan Durga Puja.
Hyderabad celebrates Durga Puja with immense joy and enthusiasm. During the festive season, the city is beautifully decorated. Each puja pandal comes alive with cultural programs, food stalls, and idol exhibitions.
