Durga Puja in Kolkata has long been celebrated not only as a religious festival but also as a stage for extraordinary creativity. Over the past few decades, the rise of “theme pujas” has transformed pandals into immersive art installations. From recreating global landmarks like the pyramids of Egypt to portraying folk tales from rural Bengal, every year pandals turn into living galleries that attract millions of visitors.
Artists, architects, and craftsmen collaborate for months to build these elaborate structures. Bamboo, cloth, recycled materials, and even digital projections are used to construct pandals that often look like movie sets or open-air museums. Each committee competes to outdo the other, ensuring the city remains a hub of innovation during the festive season.
What makes these theme pujas truly special is their storytelling. A pandal is never just a structure; it carries a narrative—sometimes addressing social issues like women’s empowerment, sometimes celebrating folk traditions. The idol itself is often designed to complement the theme, blending faith with artistic imagination.
Kolkata’s theme pujas are now internationally recognized, drawing tourists and cultural critics alike. UNESCO’s recognition of Durga Puja as an Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity in 2021 further highlighted its artistic brilliance.
Theme pujas have redefined Durga Puja as more than worship—it is a festival where art, culture, and spirituality merge to create an unforgettable urban carnival.