Durga Puja is not just a festival in Kolkata – it is an emotion, a cultural celebration, and the heartbeat of the city. Every year, millions of people from around the world come to experience the grandeur of this UNESCO-recognized festival.
If you are planning to witness Kolkata Durga Puja 2025, this is your ultimate guide. From the exact dates and puja rituals to the famous pandals, delicious food, fashion, travel tips, and immersion processions, we will cover everything you need to know.
Durga Puja 2025: Dates, Rituals, Colors & Stories
Durga Puja 2025 will be celebrated from Sunday, September 28 to Thursday, October 2, with preceding rituals and festivities beginning a week earlier, starting with Mahalaya on Sunday, September 21. The five key days of worship—Shashthi to Vijaya Dashami—bring the goddess’s divine journey to life in a celebration that blends mythology, art, and community.
Key Days & Rituals
Mahalaya – Sunday, September 21
The festival officially begins with Mahalaya, when devotees invoke Goddess Durga. This day marks Tarpan (offering to ancestors) and the recitation of Mahishasura Mardini, symbolizing the goddess’s power and protection. The associated color is white, representing purity and devotion.
Shashthi – Sunday, September 28
The first day of the main puja, Shashthi, honors Shailaputri, the daughter of the mountains, who represents purity and devotion. The Kalash Sthapana ritual is performed, marking the installation of the sacred pot, followed by Bodhon, the awakening of Goddess Durga. The color for the day is grey, symbolizing balance and serenity.
Saptami – Monday, September 29
Dedicated to Brahmacharini, the goddess of penance and austerity, Saptami involves Pran Pratistha, the formal consecration of the Durga idol. Devotees observe fasting, offer prayers, and engage in community celebrations. The color associated with this day is orange, symbolizing energy and enthusiasm.
Ashtami – Tuesday, September 30
One of the most significant days, Ashtami is devoted to Chandraghanta, the warrior goddess of courage and peace. Major rituals include Pushpanjali (flower offerings) and Kumari Puja, where young girls are worshiped as the goddess herself. The chosen color is white, representing purity and spiritual strength.
Maha Navami – Wednesday, October 1
Maha Navami celebrates multiple forms of Durga: Kushmanda, Skandamata, Katyayani, and Kalaratri, symbolizing creation, motherhood, strength, and the destruction of ignorance. Key rituals include Sandhi Puja (performed at the junction of Ashtami and Navami) and Ayudha Puja, honoring tools and instruments. The day’s color is red, reflecting valor and energy.
Vijaya Dashami – Thursday, October 2
The festival concludes with Siddhidatri, the goddess who bestows wisdom and spiritual power. Sindoor Khela is celebrated by married women applying vermilion on the goddess and each other. The Visarjan (immersion) of the idol marks the goddess’s return to her celestial abode. Colors for the day are white and pink, symbolizing new beginnings and joy.
Tip: Plan your trip from Shashthi to Dashami to experience the festival in full glory.
Goddess Forms & Symbolism
Each day of Durga Puja is dedicated to a different form of Goddess Durga, each symbolizing various aspects of life and spirituality:
- Shailaputri – Daughter of the mountains; represents purity and devotion.
- Brahmacharini – Embodiment of penance and austerity.
- Chandraghanta – Warrior goddess with a crescent moon; symbolizes bravery and peace.
- Kushmanda – Creator of the universe with her divine smile; signifies cosmic energy.
- Skandamata – Mother of Kartikeya; associated with motherhood and nurturing.
- Katyayani – Fierce form to destroy evil; represents strength and courage.
- Kalaratri – The destroyer of ignorance; symbolizes protection through transformation.
- Mahagauri – Graceful and forgiving; purifies the soul.
- Siddhidatri – Bestower of wisdom and spiritual power; signifies the culmination of spiritual journey.
Ritual Highlights
- Kalash Sthapana (Sept 28): The ceremonial installation of the sacred pot marks the beginning of the puja.
- Bodhon (Sept 28): The awakening of Goddess Durga, inviting her presence into the pandals.
- Pushpanjali (Sept 30): Offering of flowers to the goddess, a significant ritual on Ashtami.
- Kumari Puja (Sept 30): Worship of young girls as embodiments of the goddess.
- Sandhi Puja (Oct 1): Performed at the cusp of Ashtami and Navami, commemorating the goddess’s slaying of Chanda and Munda.
- Ayudha Puja (Oct 1): Worship of tools and instruments, symbolizing respect for knowledge and work.
- Sindoor Khela (Oct 2): Married women apply sindoor (vermilion) to the goddess and each other, symbolizing marital bliss.
- Visarjan (Oct 2): The immersion of the idol in water, marking the end of the festival and the goddess’s return to her celestial abode.
Mahalaya and Chokkhu Daan: Awakening the Eyes of Goddess Durga
Durga Puja in Kolkata is filled with traditions that make the festival truly special. Among them, Chokkhu Daan holds a very important place. About a week before Navratri, artisans complete the idols of Goddess Durga, but the eyes remain untouched. On Mahalaya, the day that marks the goddess’s arrival on earth, skilled hands paint the divine eyes in a sacred ritual.
It is believed that the very moment the eyes are drawn, the goddess herself descends to earth and breathes life into the idol. This ritual is performed with deep devotion, symbolizing the awakening of Maa Durga’s presence.
The heart of this tradition lies in Kumartuli, Kolkata’s famous potters’ quarter, where most of the city’s idols are crafted. During Chokkhu Daan, the lanes of Kumartuli come alive with faith, artistry, and anticipation as thousands gather to witness this spiritual moment.
Top 20 Pandals to Visit in Kolkata Durga Puja 2025
Durga Puja in Kolkata is incomplete without pandal hopping. Every year, organizers bring out stunning creativity — from traditional artwork to futuristic themes. Here are the 20 must-visit Durga Puja pandals in Kolkata 2025:
- Kumartuli Park – Home of the idol makers, famous for artistic Durga idols.
- Bagbazar Sarbojanin – One of the oldest and most traditional pujas near the river.
- College Square – Known for its beautiful reflection of the idol in the water.
- Sreebhumi Sporting Club – Always grand, often with themes like palaces or global wonders.
- Ekdalia Evergreen – Famous for intricate lighting and massive crowds.
- Deshapriya Park – Popular for record-breaking tall idols and grandeur.
- Santosh Mitra Square (Lebu Bagan) – Known for unique and innovative themes every year.
- Badamtala Ashar Sangha – Award-winning pandal with detailed artwork.
- Jodhpur Park – A South Kolkata favorite, mixing tradition with modernity.
- Singhi Park – Famous for its heritage-style Durga Puja.
- Mudiali Club – Eco-friendly themes and artistic installations.
- Kashi Bose Lane – Experimental themes with creative lighting.
- Nalin Sarkar Street – Small but famous for innovation and unique concepts.
- Bosepukur Sitala Mandir – Known for its spectacular pandal decorations.
- Shib Mandir (Lake Road) – Popular South Kolkata puja with colorful themes.
- Telengabagan Sarbojanin – Famous for its social messages through themes.
- Tridhara Sammilani – Blend of tradition and modern artistry.
- Ahiritola Sarbojanin – North Kolkata pandal with beautiful traditional decorations.
- Chaltabagan Lohapatty – Popular for creative lighting and idol design.
- Hindustan Park – Stylish, trendy, and artistic pandal loved by youngsters.
Pro Tip for 2025: Divide your pandal-hopping plan between North Kolkata (heritage and traditional pujas) and South Kolkata (theme-based modern pandals). Use Kolkata Metro to cover more pandals in less time.
Kolkata Durga Puja 2025 Pandal-Hopping Itinerary (Top 20 Pandals)
Day 1 – Shashthi (North Kolkata Focus)
Start your festival with heritage and traditional pandals in North Kolkata.
- Bagbazar Sarbojanin – Begin with this historic puja near the Hooghly river.
- Ahiritola Sarbojanin – Famous for its classic themes and devotional vibe.
- Kumartuli Park – See the master idol makers at work.
- Badamtala Ashar Sangha – Award-winning decorations with intricate artistry.
- Jodhpur Park – Blend of tradition and modernity (north-south crossover).
Tip: Start early morning to avoid crowds. North Kolkata pandals tend to be less congested early in the day.
Day 2 – Shashthi/ Saptami (South Kolkata Highlights)
Shift to South Kolkata for modern, theme-based pandals:
- Sreebhumi Sporting Club – Grand theme, perfect for photography.
- Ekdalia Evergreen – Explore massive installations and light shows.
- Deshapriya Park – Tall idols and spectacular decorations.
- Santosh Mitra Square (Lebu Bagan) – Creative and innovative annual themes.
- Bosepukur Sitala Mandir – Family-friendly with artistic charm.
Tip: Take the metro to Dhakuria or Kalighat, then use local cabs or autos to hop between pandals.
Day 3 – Saptami/Ashtami (North Kolkata & Experimental Pandals)
Focus on creative and experimental pandals:
- Kashi Bose Lane – Modern lighting and immersive installations.
- Nalin Sarkar Street – Unique concepts; less crowded.
- Telengabagan Sarbojanin – Social messages through innovative themes.
- Tridhara Sammilani – Combines heritage with modern art.
- Chaltabagan Lohapatty – Creative lighting and contemporary idol designs.
Tip: Ashtami day is peak for rituals like Pushpanjali, so reach these pandals by late morning or early afternoon.
Day 4 – Navami (South Kolkata & Trendy Pandals)
Return to South Kolkata for more popular, stylish pandals:
- Shib Mandir (Lake Road) – Colorful and lively, perfect for evening visits.
- Hindustan Park – Trendy, youthful, and Instagram-friendly.
- Mudiali Club – Eco-friendly themes with artistic installations.
- Singhi Park – Heritage-themed pandal with charming decorations.
- Deshapriya Park (optional revisit) – Ideal for evening light photography.
Tip: Navami is also packed with cultural programs, so allocate extra time for shows.
Day 5 – Dashami (Immersion & Last-Minute Pandal Visits)
- Start early with any missed pandals.
- End the day at Babughat or Princep Ghat to witness the Visarjan (immersion procession).
- Participate or observe Sindoor Khela celebrations for a complete cultural experience.
Travel Tips for Efficient Pandal Hopping
- Use Metro Rail: Covers long distances faster than road traffic.
- Group Travel: Move in groups to avoid getting lost or stuck in crowds.
- Start Early: Pandals open around 8-9 AM, and crowds peak in the evening.
- Hydration & Snacks: Carry water and light snacks; street food is tempting but take care.
- Photography Gear: Lightweight camera or smartphone; tripod optional for night shots.
This itinerary balances North vs South Kolkata, traditional vs modern pandals, and ensures visitors can see all top 20 pandals while enjoying the cultural and festive vibes of Durga Puja 2025.
Pro Tip: Use Google Maps + metro routes for easier pandal hopping.
Cultural Events & Programs During Durga Puja 2025
Durga Puja is more than rituals – it is a cultural carnival. Across the city, you will find:
- Live music concerts by Bollywood and Bengali artists.
- Dance performances like Dhak drummers, Dhunuchi Naach (smoke dance).
- Art exhibitions & plays organized by local clubs.
- Celebrity visits in popular pandals.
Many cultural events are free and open to the public, making them a highlight of the festival.
Food Guide for Durga Puja 2025 in Kolkata
Durga Puja is also a food festival! Whether you love street food or restaurant dining, Kolkata has endless options.
Must-Try Street Food
- Phuchka (Pani Puri) – Spicy water-filled delights.
- Kathi Rolls – Kolkata’s famous egg and chicken rolls.
- Chowmein & Chili Chicken – Quick and tasty Indo-Chinese snacks.
Bhog (Community Feast)
Every pandal offers Bhog (a community meal) on Ashtami and Navami, usually khichuri, labra, chutney, papad, and sweets. Don’t miss it!
Restaurants with Puja Specials
Many restaurants curate Durga Puja Special Menus with Bengali delicacies like Shorshe Ilish, Kosha Mangsho, Chingri Malai Curry, and sweets like Rasgulla & Mishti Doi.
Fashion & Shopping for Durga Puja 2025
Durga Puja is the perfect time to showcase new outfits and shop till you drop.
- Traditional Look – Women wear sarees (especially red-white laal paar) and men wear kurta-pajama.
- Trendy Look – Youngsters mix ethnic with modern Indo-Western styles.
- Shopping Hotspots – Gariahat, New Market, Dakshinapan, and City Centre malls.
On Dashami, married women wear traditional sarees and play Sindoor Khela (smearing vermilion).
Travel & Accommodation Guide for Kolkata Durga Puja 2025
Kolkata attracts millions of visitors, so planning early is crucial.
How to Reach Kolkata
- By Air: Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport (CCU).
- By Train: Howrah, Sealdah, and Santragachi stations.
- By Road: Well connected by highways and buses.
Getting Around
- Metro Rail – The fastest way to hop between pandals.
- App Cabs – Ola, Uber for easy rides.
- Walking Tours – Best for exploring pandals in close clusters.
Accommodation Options
- Luxury Hotels – The Oberoi Grand, ITC Royal Bengal.
- Mid-range – Peerless Inn, Park Prime.
- Budget Stays – OYO, Airbnb, and guest houses.
Book hotels at least 3-4 months in advance for better prices.
Durga Puja 2025 for NRIs & International Visitors
Durga Puja has gone global, with celebrations in London, New York, and Singapore. But the true experience is in Kolkata.
- Special Tours for NRIs – Travel agencies offer curated pandal-hopping tours.
- Guided Experiences – English-speaking guides explain rituals and culture.
- Cultural Exchange – Many pandals welcome foreigners to join Aarti and Bhog.
For those who can’t travel, many pandals stream live on YouTube.
Immersion & Processions in Durga Puja 2025
The festival ends with Dashami immersion when idols are taken to rivers with grand processions.
- Best Places to Watch: Babughat, Princep Ghat, and Howrah.
- Highlights: Processions with dhak drummers, dancing devotees, and colorful lights.
- Sindoor Khela: Women smear vermilion on each other before bidding farewell to Maa Durga.
Safety Tip: Avoid overcrowded ghats and use designated viewing areas.
Photography & Experiences
Durga Puja is a photographer’s paradise.
- Best Shots – Idol close-ups, Dhunuchi Naach, crowd moments, and immersion.
- Golden Hours – Early mornings for calm temple views, evenings for light shows.
- Experiential Tours – Join heritage walks to learn about old pujas in North Kolkata.
History & Significance of Durga Puja
Durga Puja is over 400 years old in Bengal. It began as private celebrations of zamindar families and grew into community pujas (baroari puja).
In 2021, UNESCO recognized Kolkata Durga Puja as an Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity, highlighting its global importance.
The festival symbolizes the victory of Goddess Durga over Mahishasura, representing the triumph of good over evil.
Final Tips for Kolkata Durga Puja 2025
- Wear comfortable shoes for pandal hopping.
- Keep cash handy – not all stalls accept cards.
- Carry water and light snacks.
- Travel in groups for safety during late nights.
- Be respectful during rituals – it’s a religious event as well as a celebration.
Conclusion
Kolkata Durga Puja 2025 promises to be bigger, brighter, and even more spectacular than ever. From the majestic pandals and artistic idols to cultural programs, mouthwatering food, fashion, and rituals, the city truly transforms into a living museum of tradition and creativity.
Whether you are a local, a tourist, or an NRI returning home, Durga Puja is an experience you will cherish forever. Plan early, explore widely, and let Kolkata’s energy fill your heart with joy this October!
