By Tn Lifestyle Desk
Copyright timesnownews
Durga Puja, a major Hindu festival, is traditionally held for ten days in the month of Ashvin (or Ashvina). It begins on the same day as Navratri, which is observed across northern and western India for nine nights. Durga Puja is a special celebration that honours the victory of the goddess Durga over the demon king Mahishasura. In Delhi-NCR, Durga Puja is celebrated with the same energy and devotion as in West Bengal. One of the highlights is pandal hopping, where people visit different venues to admire the beautifully crafted idols and decorations. With strong Bengali communities settled across the city, the festival has grown into a grand affair, transforming parts of Delhi-NCR into a “mini Kolkata” lit up with festive lights. Durga Pooja Samiti, CR Park, Mela Ground, Delhi Chittaranjan Park, or CR Park, has pujo pandals at every corner, but the most popular one is at the Mela Ground. It is especially famous for its food stalls, where you can enjoy traditional Bengali dishes like aloo poshto, begun bhaja, and maacher jhol, all prepared by residents in their own kitchens. You can also witness the traditional Dhunuchi Naach. Where: Mela Ground, Bipin Chandra Pal Marg, Chittaranjan Park Durgotsab, Greater Kailash II, Delhi Organised by the Durgotsab GK-2 committee, this pandal recreates Durga Puja in the Bonedi Pujo style, inspired by the way Kolkata’s affluent families once celebrated in their homes. This committee has been celebrating it since 1992. Visitors can look forward to cultural programs like Bharatnatyam performances, aartis, and extravagant decorations. This year the pandal will also feature the largest art work of Shri Radharaman Lal- the world famous 9 inches tall vigraha from Shridhaam Vrindavan. Where: Gurdwara Road, Block S, Greater Kailash II Kashmiri Gate Durga Puja Samiti, Delhi One of Delhi’s oldest and most renowned pandals, the Delhi Durga Puja Samiti was founded in 1910. Its magnificent idol of Durga is adorned with silver and gold decorations. It’s a nostalgic visit for those who love heritage celebrations. Where: Kashmere Gate Durga Puja Ground, 22-A, Sham Nath Marg, Delhi 110054 Durga Puja, Pandara Road, Delhi The Naya Delhi Sarbojanin Durga Puja Samity has been celebrating Durga Puja at Pandara Road since 1955. This is one of the oldest and biggest of the Durga Puja in Lutyens’ Delhi that witnesses a large number of devotees and visitors from various parts of the capital. Where: Pandara Road Flats, India Gate, New Delhi, Delhi 110003 Jalvayu Vihar Sanskritik Kalyan Samiti, Noida This year, Jalvayu Vihar Sanskritik Kalyan Samiti will have its 33rd celebrations and the theme is “Howrah Station Building – Echoes of Bengal Regal Heritage”. This samiti was founded in 1992 and has remained dedicated to celebrating Bengali art, culture and community spirit. Where: Durga Puja Ground, Sector 25, Noida Minto Road, Delhi Among the oldest Durga Puja pandals in Delhi, this celebration has been organised by the Bengali Akhara since 1940. It follows age-old traditions, focusing on rituals and devotion, and is especially known for the graceful Dhunuchi Naach. Where: Kali Bari Mandir, Minto Road, New Delhi, Delhi 110002 Balaka Bengali Cultural Association Pandal, Noida The Balaka Pandal offers lively prayers and communal celebrations. This year, special performances include Sa Re Ga Ma Pa’s 2010 winner Salil Chowdhury, promising a night of music and cultural delight. Where: Block E, Sector 61, Noida, Uttar Pradesh 201307 Matri Mandir Durga Puja, Safdarjung Enclave, Delhi This pandal is well known for its vibrant celebrations and various cultural performances, drawing thousands of devotees each year. The atmosphere is lively, with food stalls serving authentic Bengali dishes. Where: Matri Mandir, B-2 Block, Safdarjung Enclave, New Delhi, Delhi 110029 Maruti Vihar Sarbojanin Durgotsav, Maruti Vihar, Gurugram The Maruti Vihar Sarbojanin Durgotsav pandal is ready to celebrate the beauty of Bengal with folk performances and traditional art forms. It is one of the oldest (35 years) and largest in the area. This year the festivities will include cultural programmes, bhog prasad, and the Dhunuchi dance. This year’s highlights also feature performances by Manisha Karmakar and Riddles the Band. Where: Community Center, Maruti Vihar, Sector 28, Gurugram Sushant Lok Durga Puja, Gurugram This pandal is celebrated with cultural programmes, community gatherings, and a strong festive spirit. Visitors can also find stalls selling food, handicrafts, clothes, and traditional Bengali sweets. On 30 September, there’s a performance by Samantak and on 1 October, a performance by Sounak to celebrate Navami. Where: Block C, Sushant Lok Phase I, Sector 43, Gurugram, Haryana 122009 Kali Bari Durga Puja, Noida One of the major Durga Puja celebrations in Noida, this pandal is known for its traditional rituals and cultural events. The setting of the Kali Bari temple adds a spiritual touch to the festivities. Where: Kali Bari Temple, Sector 26, Noida, Uttar Pradesh 201301 Dwarka Expressway Sarbojonin Puja Samiti, Gurugram This year at Durga Puja, Sarbojonin Puja Samiti has invited Tamal Das, Shivam Chandel and Tushar and Aarushi Mukherjee to perform at the puja pandal. Alongside the usual dance competitions, bhog, Dhunuchi dance and children’s zone, there are also photo booths where you can capture your Pujo moments. Where: Shri Shyam Farm, Dhankot Chowk, Gurugram Travel News – Find latest news and tips based on Indian and World travel including top 10 travel destination, tourism information, how to reach visit and more at Times Now.
