Durga Puja is one such gift which is celebrate all over India. In the most grand way in West Bengal. Durga Puja is consider to be one of the biggest worship in Hindu religion. It is celebrate for 10 days, from the sixth day to the ninth day. The pandals containing the grand idols of Goddess Durga are open for the visitors. In India, you can experience the Famous Durga Puja in Kolkata.
Dashami is the day of immersion, which is consider under very good procession and celebrations. Durga Puja 2023 is starting from 20th October and its last day or Dussehra is on 24th October.
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Famous Durga Puja in Kolkata
Durga Puja Dates 2023: Schedule
Durga Puja is a major Hindu festival celebrated in India, especially in the state of West Bengal. The dates for Durga Puja in 2023 are as follows:
Mahalaya: 14th October 2023 (Saturday)
Durga Puja Start Date: 20th October 2023 (Friday)
Durga Puja End Date: 24th October 2023 (Tuesday)
The festival spans over five days, with the main celebrations taking place on the last four days. The schedule for the four days of Durga Puja is as follows:
Day 1: Maha Shasti – 20th October 2023 (Friday)
Day 2: Maha Saptami – 21st October 2023 (Saturday)
Day 3: Maha Ashtami – 22nd October 2023 (Sunday)
Day 4: Maha Navami – 23rd October 2023 (Monday)
Day 5: Vijayadashami or Dussehra – 24th October 2023 (Tuesday)
It is worth noting that these dates may vary slightly depending on the lunar calendar, and the actual dates may be announced closer to the festival.
What is Durga Puja Festival?
According to Hindu mythology, Goddess Durga appeared as an embodiment of Shakti or divine feminine power. From the collective energy of all the deities (devas), to destroy the demon Mahishasura. One who was blessed not to be defeated by any human or deity.
This powerful form of the Mother Goddess is highly revered in Kolkata. Which is why her return is celebrated with great grandeur and celebrations.
If you are planning to visit Kolkata during Durga Puja, then these are the popular highlights of the grand celebrations. That you will not miss to see.
A week before the festival, the city gets ready and can be visited with eagerness and enthusiasm. As it prepares itself to welcome the goddess into the house.
Related Article: Unique Tourist Places To Visit In Kolkata and Nearby Area
Rituals of Durga Puja
Mahalaya
Mahalaya marks the beginning of the ‘Devi Paksha’ and the end of the ‘Pitru-Paksha’.
Goddess Durga comes to earth for only four days but Mahalaya starts seven days before the puja.
This day has special significance for Bengalis. According to the Puranas, King Suratha used to worship Goddess Durga in the spring. Thus Durga Puja is also call as Basanti Puja.
Mahalaya is celebrate on the new moon day in the Hindu month of Ashwin (September-October).
Mahalaya 2023 date is Saturday, 14th October.
Timings are from 9:50 PM on 13th October to 11:25 PM on 14th October.
Mahalaya Full Audio
Chokku Daan – The Day When Eyes of Goddess Durga are Paint
You get to see the unique rituals of Durga Puja in Kolkata. A week before the start of Navratri; The idols of Maa Durga are being prepare by coloring except the eyes.
On the occasion of Mahalaya, the Goddess is inviting to the earth. With rituals and hence on this day, an auspicious ritual called Chokku Daan.
Maha Sashti – Sixth Day of Navratri – The Procession to Bring in the Deity
The sixth day of Navratri i.e. the first day of Durga Puja in Kolkata. That beautifully decorate idols are brought home or place in the form of lavishly decorate public pandals.
The idol is then decorate with flowers, clothes, jewelry, red vermilion and various sweets are placing in front of the goddess.
Navratri Day 6 rituals are dedicate to Goddess Katyayani. People worship Goddess Katyayani to remove fear, mental health and stress.
According to myths, Maa Katyayani is the violent form of Maa Durga. Which is creating by the gods to destroy the demon Mahishasura.
Maha Saptami – Kola Bow or Nabapatrika
Early in the morning on Mahasaptami; A small banana plant call for Kola Bou is taken to bathe in the river and dressing in a red sari and taken back in a procession. That to be place near the idol of the goddess. This is followed by ritualistic prayer and worship, which will take place on all remaining days of the festival.
Many cultural activities also take place as part of the celebrations. People come together to dance, sing, perform plays and perform traditional performances.
Maha Ashtami
Eight days of Navratri are consider very special. 9 girls are worshipping on the day of Maha Ashtami.
Every devotee observes a fast on this day. You will see the importance of Maha Ashtami more in Odisha, West Bengal, Manipur and Tripura.
On this day 9 powers of Durga Maa are invoked in the pandals.
Maa Gauri, the eighth form of Maa Durga, is worshiped on the eighth day of Navratri.
On this day, after worshiping Maa Gauri, 9 girls and 1 boy are called to the house. And all of them are worshipped. And as their bhog, pudding (halwa), puri and gram(channe) are given. At the same time, some people bid farewell to the child by giving gifts.
Especially this day is very special for Bengali people. On this day, everyone unites and showers flowers on Maa Durga. This view is very unique.
Maha Navami
According to the belief, 9 forms of Maa Durga are worshiped for ninth day of Navratri.
Worshiping Maa Durga on this day fulfills all the wishes of the devotees. And brings happiness and prosperity in the house.
Vijaya Dashami – The Last Day of the Durga Puja
After three days of worship, the goddess is given a tearful farewell on the last day of Dashami.
Devotees in large numbers gather to join the procession that is taken to the ghat to immerse the goddess in water.
Women, especially married women, first start atrocities on the goddess. Which is by applying red vermilion or vermilion powder and then on each other. It is said to be a symbol of marriage and fertility.
Durga Puja Pandals & Decorations
Each lavishly decorated pandal emphasizes a theme; Be it legends of Goddess Durga or scenes from Hindu epic texts.
Nowadays, Kolkata durga puja pandals are based on social causes to spread awareness. This year you will probably get to see many themes to tackle the corona virus.
20 Best Pandals of Famous Durga Puja in Kolkata
Durga Puja is one of the biggest festivals celebrated in Kolkata, and every year, numerous pandals are set up across the city to celebrate the occasion. Here are some of the best North and South Kolkata Durga Puja pandals that you can visit:
North Kolkata:
- Bagbazar Sarbojanin Durgotsav
- Kumartuli Park Sarbojanin
- Ahiritola Sarbojonin Durgotsav
- Sreebhumi Sporting Club
- College Square Sarbojanin Durgotsav
- Md. Ali Park
- Telengabagan Sarbojanin Durgotsav
- Girish Park Sarbojanin Durgotsav
- Maniktala Chaltabagan Lohapatty Sarbojanin Durgotsav
- Beliaghata 33 Pally
South Kolkata:
- Ekdalia Evergreen Club
- Singhi Park Sarbojanin Durgotsav
- Badamtala Ashar Sangha
- Suruchi Sangha
- Ballygunge Cultural Association
- Jodhpur Park Sarbojanin Durgotsav
- Bosepukur Sitala Mandir
- Tridhara Sammilani
- Hindustan Park Sarbojanin Durgotsav
- Samaj Sebi Sangha
Please note that this is not an exhaustive list, and there are many more pandals in both North and South Kolkata that are worth visiting during Durga Puja.
15 Bengali dishes you need to taste this festive season
Durga Puja is a festive occasion in West Bengal, and the celebration is incomplete without the delicious food. Here are 15 Bengali dishes that you must try during Durga Puja:
- Luchi and Aloo Dum: A deep-fried bread made of refined flour, served with spicy potato curry.
- Kosha Mangsho: A spicy mutton curry, slow-cooked with a host of spices.
- Cholar Dal: A sweet and spicy lentil curry made with Bengal gram, coconut, and spices.
- Shukto: A mixed vegetable curry with a unique combination of bitter and sweet flavors.
- Alur Torkari: A simple and delicious potato curry that is a staple during Durga Puja.
- Bhetki Paturi: A fish dish where the fish is marinated in spices, wrapped in banana leaf, and steamed.
- Bhapa Ilish: A classic Bengali dish made with steamed hilsa fish and mustard paste.
- Macher Jhol: A light fish curry made with a variety of fish and a mix of spices.
- Chingri Malai Curry: A rich and creamy prawn curry made with coconut milk and spices.
- Mishti Pulao: A sweet and fragrant rice dish made with ghee, nuts, and raisins.
- Niramish Aloor Dum: A spicy and tangy curry made with potatoes and no onion and garlic.
- Puchka: A popular street food that consists of crispy shells filled with a tangy mixture of mashed potatoes, tamarind, and spices.
- Jhal Muri: Another popular street food snack that consists of puffed rice mixed with vegetables, spices, and tamarind.
- Sandesh: A sweet dessert made with cottage cheese and sugar, flavored with cardamom, saffron, or rosewater.
- Rosogolla: A quintessential Bengali sweet made of spongy cottage cheese balls soaked in sugar syrup.
These are just a few of the many delicious Bengali dishes that you can try during Durga Puja.
Best Mode of Transportation in Kolkata Durga Puja
Kolkata is one of the few cities where you can enjoy a wide variety of transport modes from boats, trains and buses to trams. The state is bringing their fleet including double deckers for Durga Puja.
Metro
Kolkata Metro is one of the most convenient and fastest modes of transport in Kolkata, especially during the Durga Puja festivities. The Kolkata Metro operates from early morning until late night, making it easy for commuters to travel to and from the pandals. However, due to the large crowds and heavy rush during Durga Puja, it is recommended that you plan your journey in advance to avoid any inconvenience.
Here are some tips for traveling on the Kolkata Metro during Durga Puja:
- Plan your journey in advance: Check the timings of the last train and plan your journey accordingly, especially if you plan to visit the pandals late at night.
- Purchase Smart Cards: Smart Cards are rechargeable cards that can be used for multiple journeys, and it saves time in the queue.
- Avoid peak hours: The peak hours on the Kolkata Metro are generally between 8 AM to 11 AM and 5 PM to 8 PM. Try to avoid traveling during these times as the trains can get crowded.
- Be mindful of your belongings: Keep your belongings close to you, especially in crowded trains.
- Follow COVID-19 protocols: Wear a mask, sanitize your hands, and maintain social distancing while traveling.
- Be patient: Be patient and wait for your turn to board the train during peak hours, and do not rush or push your way through the crowds.
Following these tips can help make your Metro journey during Durga Puja a hassle-free and enjoyable experience.
Information: Metro Time, Fare, Station
Local Train
The local trains in Kolkata are an integral part of the city’s transport system, and they can be extremely useful during the Durga Puja festivities when the city witnesses a massive influx of visitors. However, it is important to keep in mind that the local trains can be extremely crowded during Durga Puja, and it is essential to plan your journey in advance to avoid any inconvenience. Here are some tips for traveling on local trains during Durga Puja:
- Check the train schedule: Check the train schedule in advance and plan your journey accordingly.
- Purchase train tickets in advance: Purchase your train tickets in advance to avoid standing in long queues at the ticket counters.
- Avoid peak hours: Try to avoid traveling during peak hours when the trains are crowded. The peak hours for local trains in Kolkata are generally between 8 AM to 11 AM and 5 PM to 8 PM.
- Be mindful of your belongings: Keep your belongings close to you, especially in crowded trains.
- Follow COVID-19 protocols: Wear a mask, sanitize your hands, and maintain social distancing while traveling.
- Be patient: Be patient and wait for your turn to board the train during peak hours, and do not rush or push your way through the crowds.
- Use the ladies compartment: If you are a woman or traveling with women, consider using the ladies compartment, which is less crowded and more comfortable.
- Opt for AC compartments: Consider traveling in AC compartments, which are less crowded and more comfortable.
Following these tips can help make your local train journey during Durga Puja a hassle-free and enjoyable experience.
Tram
Trams are an iconic mode of transport in Kolkata, and they offer a unique and enjoyable experience during the Durga Puja festivities. The trams provide a leisurely and comfortable ride, allowing passengers to enjoy the festivities while traveling to and from the pandals. However, it is important to keep in mind that the trams can get crowded during Durga Puja, and it is essential to plan your journey in advance to avoid any inconvenience.
Here are some tips for traveling on trams during Durga Puja:
- Plan your journey in advance: Check the tram schedule in advance and plan your journey accordingly.
- Purchase tickets in advance: Purchase your tram tickets in advance to avoid standing in long queues at the ticket counters.
- Avoid peak hours: Try to avoid traveling during peak hours when the trams are crowded. The peak hours for trams in Kolkata are generally between 8 AM to 11 AM and 5 PM to 8 PM.
- Be mindful of your belongings: Keep your belongings close to you, especially in crowded trams.
- Follow COVID-19 protocols: Wear a mask, sanitize your hands, and maintain social distancing while traveling.
- Be patient: Be patient and wait for your turn to board the tram during peak hours, and do not rush or push your way through the crowds.
- Enjoy the ride: Take advantage of the leisurely and comfortable ride and enjoy the festivities while traveling on the tram.
Following these tips can help make your tram journey during Durga Puja a hassle-free and enjoyable experience.
Busses
Buses are one of the most common modes of transport in Kolkata, and they are a convenient and affordable option for traveling during the Durga Puja festivities. However, it is important to keep in mind that the buses can get crowded during this time, and it is essential to plan your journey in advance to avoid any inconvenience.
Here are some tips for traveling on buses during Durga Puja:
- Check the bus schedule: Check the bus schedule in advance and plan your journey accordingly.
- Purchase tickets in advance: Purchase your bus tickets in advance to avoid standing in long queues at the ticket counters.
- Avoid peak hours: Try to avoid traveling during peak hours when the buses are crowded. The peak hours for buses in Kolkata are generally between 8 AM to 11 AM and 5 PM to 8 PM.
- Be mindful of your belongings: Keep your belongings close to you, especially in crowded buses.
- Follow COVID-19 protocols: Wear a mask, sanitize your hands, and maintain social distancing while traveling.
- Be patient: Be patient and wait for your turn to board the bus during peak hours, and do not rush or push your way through the crowds.
- Plan your route: Plan your route in advance and choose the buses that will take you closest to your destination.
- Consider AC buses: Consider traveling in AC buses, which are less crowded and more comfortable.
Following these tips can help make your bus journey during Durga Puja a hassle-free and enjoyable experience.
Boat
Boats are a unique mode of transport in Kolkata and can offer a delightful experience during the Durga Puja festivities. The boats are especially useful for traveling to the pandals located on the banks of the river Ganga or Hooghly. However, it is important to keep in mind that the boats can get crowded during Durga Puja, and it is essential to plan your journey in advance to avoid any inconvenience.
Here are some tips for traveling on boats during Durga Puja:
- Check the boat schedule: Check the boat schedule in advance and plan your journey accordingly.
- Purchase tickets in advance: Purchase your boat tickets in advance to avoid standing in long queues at the ticket counters.
- Avoid peak hours: Try to avoid traveling during peak hours when the boats are crowded. The peak hours for boats in Kolkata are generally between 8 AM to 11 AM and 5 PM to 8 PM.
- Be mindful of your belongings: Keep your belongings close to you, especially in crowded boats.
- Follow COVID-19 protocols: Wear a mask, sanitize your hands, and maintain social distancing while traveling.
- Be patient: Be patient and wait for your turn to board the boat during peak hours, and do not rush or push your way through the crowds.
- Plan your route: Plan your route in advance and choose the boats that will take you closest to your destination.
- Enjoy the ride: Take advantage of the scenic ride and enjoy the festivities while traveling on the boat.
Following these tips can help make your boat journey during Durga Puja a hassle-free and enjoyable experience.
Auto Rickshaw
Auto-rickshaws are a popular mode of transport in Kolkata, and they can be a convenient option for traveling during the Durga Puja festivities. However, it is important to keep in mind that the auto-rickshaws can get crowded during this time, and it is essential to plan your journey in advance to avoid any inconvenience.
Here are some tips for traveling on auto-rickshaws during Durga Puja:
- Negotiate fares in advance: Before getting on an auto-rickshaw, negotiate the fare with the driver in advance.
- Avoid peak hours: Try to avoid traveling during peak hours when the auto-rickshaws are crowded. The peak hours for auto-rickshaws in Kolkata are generally between 8 AM to 11 AM and 5 PM to 8 PM.
- Be mindful of your belongings: Keep your belongings close to you, especially in crowded auto-rickshaws.
- Follow COVID-19 protocols: Wear a mask, sanitize your hands, and maintain social distancing while traveling.
- Be patient: Be patient and wait for your turn to board the auto-rickshaw during peak hours, and do not rush or push your way through the crowds.
- Plan your route: Plan your route in advance and choose the auto-rickshaws that will take you closest to your destination.
- Check for proper documentation: Make sure that the auto-rickshaw has proper documentation, such as a valid license and insurance.
- Avoid overloading: Do not overload the auto-rickshaw with too many passengers or luggage, as it can be unsafe and uncomfortable.
Following these tips can help make your auto-rickshaw journey during Durga Puja a hassle-free and enjoyable experience.
Toto Rickshaw
Toto rickshaws are a popular mode of transport in Kolkata, and they can be a convenient and affordable option for traveling during the Durga Puja festivities. Toto rickshaws are small, three-wheeled vehicles that can carry up to four passengers at a time. However, it is important to keep in mind that the toto rickshaws can get crowded during this time, and it is essential to plan your journey in advance to avoid any inconvenience.
Here are some tips for traveling on toto rickshaws during Durga Puja:
- Negotiate fares in advance: Before getting on a toto rickshaw, negotiate the fare with the driver in advance.
- Avoid peak hours: Try to avoid traveling during peak hours when the toto rickshaws are crowded. The peak hours for toto rickshaws in Kolkata are generally between 8 AM to 11 AM and 5 PM to 8 PM.
- Be mindful of your belongings: Keep your belongings close to you, especially in crowded toto rickshaws.
- Follow COVID-19 protocols: Wear a mask, sanitize your hands, and maintain social distancing while traveling.
- Be patient: Be patient and wait for your turn to board the toto rickshaw during peak hours, and do not rush or push your way through the crowds.
- Plan your route: Plan your route in advance and choose the toto rickshaws that will take you closest to your destination.
- Check for proper documentation: Make sure that the toto rickshaw has proper documentation, such as a valid license and insurance.
- Avoid overloading: Do not overload the toto rickshaw with too many passengers or luggage, as it can be unsafe and uncomfortable.
Following these tips can help make your toto rickshaw journey during Durga Puja a hassle-free and enjoyable experience.
Note: This time ticket prices can change for Durga Puja, please confirm the ticket price once before roaming.
