Durga Puja in Kolkata showcases innovative themes that leave a lasting impression. In 2024, the puja committees have created pandals reflecting change, social awareness, craftsmanship, lost traditions, the world, and some of the finest architectural structures, among other concepts. If you’re worried about missing out on the best themed pandals, don’t fret—we’ve got you covered! Keep reading to avoid FOMO!
Most Unique 2024 Durga Puja Themes You Can’t Miss In Kolkata
Santosh Mitra Square
This North Kolkata pujo is nothing short of grand, and they certainly know how to capture the spotlight. This year, Santosh Mitra Square draws inspiration from the iconic Sphere in Las Vegas, bringing a slice of it to Lebutala, with Durga Ma at its heart. With immersive light effects, soundscapes, and captivating visuals, they are set to create a pandal that promises to be unforgettable. Renowned for their daring themes—whether it's the Ram Mandir of Ayodhya or Maa Durga adorned in gold—Santosh Mitra Square never disappoints, and this year is bound to be no exception.
Best Time To Visit: 2:00 AM to 6:00 AM
How To Get There: The nearest metro station is Sovabazar Sutanuti Metro. From there, you can either walk or take an auto.
Attractions: An 11D film will be featured, depicting the story and grandeur of Durga.
LBB Tip: Take the time to soak in the illuminated craftsmanship and vibrant visuals around you—enjoy the moment rather than worrying about capturing photos in the bustling crowd.
Kashi Bose Lane
Kashi Bose Lane's 2024 Durga Puja theme, “Rotno Garbha,” is a tribute to the legendary figures Raja Ram Mohan Roy and Ishwar Chandra Vidyasagar! These pioneers of social reform paved the way for change, challenging practices like Sati and child marriage while advocating for widow remarriage. This year’s pandal stands as a powerful homage to their incredible legacy, emphasizing that the future is female!
Best Time To Visit: 6:00 PM to 11:00 PM
How To Get There: Take a metro train to Girish Park Metro Station or Sovabazar Sutanuti Metro Station.
Attractions: The festivities at Kashi Bose Lane kick off from Pratipad, with sacred bhog shared among all visitors from Shasthi through to Nabami.
LBB Tip: If you have any queries, feel free to email them at kashiboselane@gmail.com. You can also call them at +91 9830152526, +91 9836063539, or +91 9231535136.
Kumartuli Park Sarbojanin Durga Puja Pandal
Tucked away in the artisan hub of Kumartuli, Kumartuli Park Durga Puja is famed for its breathtaking idols created by incredibly talented local craftsmen. You won't want to miss the artistry on display! This year, Kumartuli Park, celebrating a whopping 90 years will narrate the story of 'Khuda' through its pandal. And this place is THE spot to be!
Best time to visit: 11:00 AM to 3:00 PM
How To Get There: Take a metro train that goes to Sovabazar Sutanuti metro station
LBB-tip: You can also reach out to them via the Facebook page. It includes the email address, website address, phone number and more.
Mitali Kankurgachi
Mitali Club in Kankurgachhi is yet another gem of design. Last year, they dazzled us with a pandal themed around disguise, and this year they are embracing the theme of 'Icche', which means 'wish' in Bengali. It's a beautifully subtle fusion of everything you desire, reflecting how you wish to experience this year's puja pandal.
Best Time To Visit: 12:00 to 6:00 PM
Attractions: The crowd, the food stalls.
LBB-tip: If you're travelling from Salt Lake or New Town, you can easily hop on the East West Metro and alight at Bengal Chemical Metro Station. From there, a straight walk along Maniktala Main Road will lead you directly to your destination. Autorickshaws are plentiful, so you can make use of those too.
25 Pally
Khidirpur's 25 Pally is one of the oldest and most renowned pujos in Kolkata. The theme draws inspiration from various aspects of daily life, telling a story about the importance of cherishing old relationships. The entire mandap is adorned with an array of items, including used plastic bottles, paint containers, earthen pots, old hair clips, computer wires, computer mouse and much more.
Best Time To Visit: 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM
Attractions: Phucka and chaat stalls.
LBB-tip: If you want to know more about 25 Pally, you can reach out to them on Instagram.
Rani Rashmoni Bagan Kishore Sangha
Rani Rashmoni Bagan Kishore Sangha is running its 69th year. Rani Rashmoni Bagan Kishore, commonly known as Kishore Bagan, is a historic area in Kolkata, notable for its greenery and lively atmosphere. It is named after Rani Rashmoni, a significant figure in 19th-century Bengal, and is rooted in history and tradition, particularly during the Durga Puja festivities. The area hosts various performances, including traditional dance, music, and theatre that depict the tales of Goddess Durga and other mythological figures. These events offer a platform for local artists and engage the community in acknowledging their cultural heritage.
Best Time to Viisit: 12:00 to 8:00 PM
Attractions: The club features a small field nestled among buildings and has organised a well-known football league in the area.
LBB-tip: Since it is located in Tangra, Kolkata's Chinatown, don't forget to devour the Chinese cuisine from any of the restaurants.
College Square
College Square’s Durga Puja theme for 2024 is a tribute to the iconic Parliament building of Switzerland, known for its neoclassical design, grand dome, and intricate arches. The pandal will capture the essence of this architectural marvel, complete with the elegance of Swiss detail and symmetry, blending it with local artistry. The pandal will be at a height of 100-120 ft with a width of 100-130 ft. Be sure to catch a glimpse of it after walking 1.5kms from Santosh Mitra Square.
How To Get There: Take a metro train that goes to either Mahatma Gandhi Road or Central metro station
Attractions: A show performed by illumination artists from Chandannagar.
Tala Durga Puja
Tala Prottoy’s theme this year, 'Bihil – The Void', explores the profound concept that divinity is formless and omnipresent. The pandal aims to express the idea that the divine exists everywhere, without adhering to any particular shape or form. Through its décor and installations, visitors will be immersed in the philosophy of a formless deity. The pandal is open for public viewing from 5 October.
Best Time To Visit: 10:00 AM to 8:00 PM
How To Get There: The nearest metro stations are Belgachia metro station and Sovabazar metro station. You can also take a bus or auto after.
Attractions: Narration of 'Kahan', a journey of a Durga Puja artist by Susanta Paul.
LBB-tip: Tala Prattoy is a socio-cultural non-profit, with proceeds supporting art and artists. Connect with them on Instagram or visit their website for more details.
Mudiali Club Durga Puja
Mudiali Club Durga Puja is one of the oldest South Kolkata Durga Pujas. The club's theme, Three Dimensions, highlights the timeless bond between Brahma, Vishnu, and Maheshwar. The pandal will illustrate how their combined powers oversee creation, preservation, and destruction within the universe, showcasing the delicate balance they maintain. Visitors can experience this captivating theme from Tritiya onwards.
Best Time To Visit: 12:00 to 8:00 PM
How To Get There: The nearest metro station is Rabrindra Sarobar. Public transport is available as well. You can also book Uber, Ola and Rapido.
Attractions: Decor stalls, food stalls, the dhaakis playing the dhak.
LBB-tip: If you follow the crowd, you will also get to see the puja pandal of Shivmandir Sarbajanin Durga Puja.
Behala Notun Dal
What happens when imagination breaks all boundaries? Behala Notun Dal's Kalpana is here to answer just that. Picture this-- India and Ireland joining forces, blending the Irish god Danav with Maa Durga in a mind-blowing cultural fusion. Can you think of a better way to celebrate 75 years of diplomatic ties? With Irish artists bringing their magic, this collaboration proves that when cultures unite, creativity reaches an entirely new dimension. So, are you ready to witness the power of imagination?
Best Time To Visit: 6:00 PM to 11:00 PM
How To Get There: The nearest metro station is Behala Bazar on the Purple Line.
Mohammad Ali Park
With its eye-catching pandal with a White House motif, Mohammad Ali Park in Kolkata is bringing America to the city this Durga Puja. In addition to showcasing the building's architectural glory, the pandal is also going to inform the public about its historical significance. This year's installation will be on the park's side, where it will stay accessible to tourists due to space restrictions. Artist Kush Bera is the creator of the idol.
How To Get There: The nearest metro station is Mahatma Gandhi metro station. Public transport is aslo there.
Attractions: In addition to its aesthetic appeal, the pandal will also emphasise the vital theme of water conservation, encouraging attendees to reflect on this pressing global issue while enjoying the festivities.
LBB-tip: The pandal is open from Chaturthi.