Delhiites, you do not need to travel to Kolkata to witness the grandeur and celebrate the festival of Durga Puja. The celebrations in Delhi have their own identity as well. With pandals that stand out
for their history, traditional rituals, distinctive idols, elaborate themes and strong community legacy, this 10-day festival that honours the goddess Durga and her triumph over the buffalo demon Mahishasura is something you need to witness yourself.
Goddess Durga has begun her journey from Kailash to her paternal home, and today marks the first day of Navratri. Durga Puja will begin from October 16 to October 20. So, if you have no plans to travel for this festival, here are some of Delhi-NCR’s well-known Durga Puja pandals to look out for.
Delhi
Kashmere Gate Durga Puja Samiti
Established in 1910, Kashmere Gate Durga Puja Samiti is regarded as Delhi’s oldest organised Durga Puja celebration. The pandal is known for its traditional ek-chala idol, in which the deities are depicted together, and the classic Daaker Saaj style featuring silver-toned embellishments. Its heritage setting and time-honoured rituals make it a special stop for those looking to experience the city’s longstanding Bengali Durga Puja traditions.
New Delhi Kali Bari
New Delhi Kali Bari is one of the capital’s oldest Bengali cultural and religious institutions, celebrated for its traditional Durga Puja rituals and strong community spirit. Alongside worship and festive gatherings, the celebrations feature cultural programmes, including Rabindra Sangeet, the songs of Rabindranath Tagore. Visitors can experience the devotional side of the festival while also enjoying the music and cultural traditions that connect the Bengali community to its roots.
Matri Mandir, Safdarjung Enclave
Located in B-2 Block, Safdarjung Enclave, Matri Mandir is known for its community-focused Durga Puja celebrations. The festivities bring devotees together for traditional worship, cultural performances and opportunities to enjoy festive food. Its welcoming atmosphere makes it a popular choice for families and visitors looking for a neighbourhood celebration that combines devotion with the cultural and social traditions associated with Durga Puja.
Minto Road Puja Samity
With a history dating back to 1940, Minto Road Puja Samity is among Delhi’s established Durga Puja celebrations. The pandal offers a traditional festive atmosphere, with rituals and cultural activities bringing the community together. One of its highlights is Dhunuchi Naach, the energetic Bengali devotional dance performed with earthen incense burners. It is a good choice for visitors who want to experience the lively, participatory side of Durga Puja.
Noida
Balaka Durgotsav, Sector 61
Balaka Durgotsav in Sector 61, Noida, is known for its elaborate, theme-based pandals that bring an artistic dimension to the festival. This year’s theme recreates the iconic Victoria Memorial, offering visitors a chance to admire the architectural inspiration alongside the celebrations. The pandal combines the spectacle of themed décor with traditional Durga Puja festivities, making it an appealing stop for those who enjoy exploring the creative designs and visual storytelling of festival pandals.
Mayur Vihar Durga Puja
The Durga Puja celebrations in Mayur Vihar are known for their strong community participation and festive atmosphere. The pandal draws devotees and visitors from the neighbourhood, creating a lively setting for worship, cultural activities and meeting friends and family. For those exploring Durga Puja celebrations across Delhi-NCR, Mayur Vihar offers a community-centred experience where the emphasis is on shared traditions, devotion and the joy of celebrating together.
Gurugram
Sushant Lok Durga Puja
Sushant Lok Durga Puja is one of Gurugram’s popular festive gatherings, attracting residents and visitors for its organised celebrations and welcoming atmosphere. The festivities bring together traditional worship, community activities and the cultural spirit of Durga Puja. With its sizeable turnout, it offers an opportunity to experience the festival’s social side, from joining devotees at the pandal to soaking in the lively atmosphere created by families and the wider Bengali community.
Purbapalli Durgotsav, Sector 15
Purbapalli Durgotsav in Sector 15, Gurugram, is known for combining traditional Durga Puja elements with artistic décor. This year, alpona-inspired designs feature in the celebrations. Alpona is a traditional Bengali folk art made with decorative patterns, often created using white rice paste, and is associated with auspicious occasions. The artistic touches, alongside worship and community festivities, make Purbapalli a worthwhile stop for visitors keen to explore the cultural traditions behind Durga Puja.
