Best spots to witness Durga Puja in Delhi

Must-visit 'pandals' to experience festivities

Even though Durga Puja, one of the most vibrant festivals in India, is primarily celebrated in eastern India, notably West Bengal, its grandeur can also be experienced in parts of Delhi, which come alive with devotion and festivities celebrated with enthusiasm.

One of the most vibrant and lively festivals of Hindu culture, Durga Puja is just around the corner. Celebrations for Durga Puja, the festival symbolising goddess Durga’s victory over Mahishasura, a demon and representing the triumph of good over evil, begin October 9.

Durga Puja is predominantly celebrated in West Bengal, but is also a major festival in some other states, including Assam, Odisha, Bihar, Jharkhand and Tripura. Large, temporary, open–sided tent like structures, generally built with bamboo matting, known as pandals, are set up almost at every corner for the installation of the idols and celebratory rituals.

But it is not just in the eastern parts of India that one can experience this vibrant festival. Even those in Delhi, for instance, can get a look-in to this festival, which is celebrated with equal enthusiasm and devotion in parts of Delhi with a significant population of Bengali origin. Here are five pandals where you can experience the traditions and grandeur of Durga Puja in the national capital:

Kali Mandir Durga Puja, CR Park

Often referred to as ‘mini Bengal’ of Delhi, the Chittaranjan Park or CR Park, neighbourhood is alive with rituals, dance, food stalls and other festive activities during Durga Puja. In this small locality in southern Delhi, more than a dozen pandals are set up, though the epicentre of the festival is the Kali Mandir which has one of the most colourful and vibrant pandals, perfect for those looking to experience authentic and traditional festivities, witness performances of traditional Bengali dances and music and relish the delectable Bengali food.

Kashmere Gate

Said to be the oldest pandal of Delhi, dating back to over 100 years, the pandal in Kashmere Gate in Old Delhi attracts devotees from all over Delhi and beyond to experience its old-world charm and the grandeur of Durga Puja celebrations. The pandal features idols adorned with the most stunning Daaker Saaj, a traditional style of decoration for goddess Durga’s idols, often white in colour, made up of rangta (silver foil) and silver sequins.

Kali Bari, Mayur Vihar

In addition to boasting an ethereal avatar of goddess Durga, the Kali Bari pandal at Mayur Vihar in East Delhi is renowned for its delectable bhog, a meal that is first offered to the goddess and then served to all who attend the festivities. Along with the various cultural activities organised at the pandal during the four-day celebration, it is also known to host a theme-based puja every year.

Matri Mandir Durga Puja, Safdarjung Enclave

The Maitri Mandir pandal at Safdarjung Enclave in south Delhi is famous amongst devotees for its cultural activities and performances including music, dance and drama. It is a perfect place for people seeking to experience authentic Bengali culture and traditions. The pandal offers visitors a perfect blend of spirituality, traditions, and delectable cuisine.

Durga Puja Mandap, Aram Bagh

Renowned for its thematic and creative designs, the Arambagh Durga Puja Mandap in central Delhi offers visitors a mélange of traditions and contemporary artistic expression. Each year, the organising committee unveils the most unique and creative themes that draws thousands, transforming the pandal into a mesmerising spectacle that celebrates both cultural heritage and modern creativity.