Must-See Durga Puja Pandals In South Kolkata

Renowned for its unwavering dedication to tradition, Ekdalia embarks on its 82nd year with a magnificent recreation of the Jagannath Mandir, crafted in true sabeki (traditional) style. Master idol maker Sanatan Rudra Pal adheres to age-old techniques, ensuring that this year’s Puja remains a testament to classic artistry. It’s tradition with a timeless twist, keeping the legacy alive and thriving.

How to reach: The closest metro station is Kalighat, located 2.4 km away, which can be reached in 8 to 10 minutes by bus, car, or auto. Ballygunge Station, just 850 meters away, is a four to five-minute walk and serves as the nearest railway station.

Chetla Agrani marks its 31st year with the poignant theme, Ganga Dushan, shedding light on the environmental degradation of the sacred river. The pandal serves as a compelling commentary on pollution, echoing a call for a return to ecological harmony. This year’s celebration stands not only as a tribute to tradition but also as a reminder of the urgent need to restore the purity of the Ganges, whose waters have borne witness to centuries of devotion and cultural heritage.

How to reach: The nearest metro station to Chetla Agragami Club is Rabindra Sarobar Metro Station. After reaching Rabindra Sarobar, you can take a taxi or an auto-rickshaw.

Are you witnessing the Singhi Park Sarbojonin Durga Puja? I must say, the 2024 theme, Satmoholar Antopure, is nothing short of mesmerizing. It brings the past to life, immersing us in a world of mystique, tradition, and cultural depth. The experience is truly enchanting. And then there’s the music! Pandit Subhen Chatterjee’s composition possesses a unique magic, weaving through the pandal like a whisper from another time. It feels as though every note carries the weight of history while dancing lightly through the air, drawing you deeper into the celebration!

How to reach: Take the Metro to Kalighat and then an auto to Gariahat; from there, it’s a short walk to Dover Lane.

Want to witness the rare paintings of the Ajanta Caves? Then you must visit Santoshpur Lakepally, where an extraordinary mural awaits. Artist Abhijit Ghatak has beautifully captured the essence of the Ajanta cave paintings through his artistic mastery, courtesy of Santoshpur Lakepally. The artistic heritage of Ajanta forms the foundation of modern Indian art, with pioneers like Nandalal Bose, Asit Kumar Haldar, and Mukul Dey regarded as trailblazers in the field. These artists visited Ajanta to study its frescoes, inspiring a broader artistic movement. A glimpse of that evolution will be on display at Santoshpur Lakepally’s Puja this year.

How to reach: While there is no metro station nearby Santoshpur Lakepally Club, you can take the metro to Tollygunge or Rabindra Sarovar. From there, take an auto to Jadavpur 8B, followed by another auto to Santoshpur.

Monohar Pukur Road returns for its 78th year, and this time, Tridhara’s theme, Angan, is a heartfelt homage to the Indian courtyard—a place where family ties blossom and memories linger. Artist Gouranga Kuila weaves a narrative of love and tradition, capturing the simple yet profound beauty of everyday life within the embrace of a homely courtyard. There’s something irresistibly romantic about it, as if the very air is filled with whispers of the past, inviting you to lose yourself in its warmth.

How to reach: The closest metro station is Kalighat Metro Station.

Having grown up visiting Mudiali Club year after year, I can confidently say they've always had a knack for pushing boundaries, but this year feels different. The theme, Three Dimensions, explores something much larger—Brahma, Vishnu, and Maheshwar, the ultimate trio. It’s not just about gods or mythology; it’s about the universe itself—how creation, sustenance, and destruction work in harmony to maintain balance. There’s something almost cosmic about the way they’re tying it all together.

How to reach: Take the Metro to Rabindra Sarobar or Tollygunge Metro Station. From there, you can catch a bus to Southern Avenue, Mudiali. Alternatively, take the local train to Tollygunge Station and walk 500 meters from there.

This year, the Durga Puja at Hindustan Park Sarbojonin takes a creative leap with a theme crafted by the talented duo Malay and Shubhomay, accompanied by the exquisite festive music of Sourendro-Soumyojit. Celebrating its 94th year, this iconic Puja is a must-visit on your pandal-hopping list. Immerse yourself in the artistry and let us know about your experience. Shubho Sharodiya!

How to Reach: Take the Metro to either Rabindra Sarobar or Kalighat Metro Station. From there, you can catch a bus to Southern Avenue, Mudiali. Alternatively, take the local train to Tollygunge Station and walk 500 meters from there.

One of the most captivating aspects of South Kolkata’s Durga Puja pandals is the wave of innovative ideas that elevate the celebrations. This year, the renowned Badamtala Ashar Sangha presents a distinctive theme—Utsober Chalchitre. As Durga Puja has evolved over the years, this theme beautifully captures the transition of the festivities, showcasing how traditions adapt while still honoring their roots. Be sure to include this extraordinary pandal in your explorations!

How to reach:The nearest metro station to Badamtala Ashar Sangha is Kalighat Metro Station. You can take the metro and then use local transportation like taxis or auto-rickshaws, or walk to reach the pandal.

Get ready to immerse yourself in the hustle and bustle, as this is one of Kolkata's most popular Durga Pujas! What makes this pandal so special? It’s renowned for its stunning attention to detail and imaginative designs that promise a cultural experience like no other. This year’s theme, Bhabatarini, invites you to explore its rich significance and creativity. Curious about what awaits inside? You won’t want to miss it!

How to reach: Just off Gariahat Road South lies Jodhpur Park, near Jadavpur Thana. The nearest railway station is Dhakuria, and the pandal is located close to Jodhpur Park Boys School.

When it comes to Durga Puja in South Kolkata, one name that’s bound to pop up is Deshapriya Park. This legendary puja committee is gearing up for a spectacular celebration this year with the theme Ebar Bhubaneswari, and the excitement around the pandal construction is palpable. Be sure to add Deshapriya Park to your pandal-hopping itinerary to unravel the theme and witness the sheer magnificence that awaits!

How to Reach: The nearest metro station is Kalighat. You can also use various public transport options to reach the pandal.

Visitors often find themselves waiting over an hour to enter Suruchi Sangha’s Durga Puja pandal, eager to experience its renowned excellence—a reminder of cherished celebrations from years past. Undoubtedly, it remains one of South Kolkata’s most beloved pandals to explore. This year, the club has chosen a truly unique theme. Spanning a vast area, the pandal is being constructed under the evocative theme Purano Sei Diner Kotha, which translates to "Tales of the Old Days."

How to reach: The nearest metro stations are Kalighat and Rabindra Sarobar. You can take an auto from either station to reach the pandal.