<p>Durga Puja 2026 will be remembered as the year when West Bengal was stripped of its cultural ethos. A festival that celebrates good over evil, &nbsp;worships a goddess with limitless powers, and her homecoming, Durga Puja this year was in the news not for its stunning pandals, intricate idols, or the social messages represented through art each year. It was, instead, in the news for diktats, tragic deaths, hooliganism, and the death of intellect.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Bengal, a land of artists and people known for their intellectual acumen, has been celebrating Durga Puja for centuries. The festival is as much a celebration of the goddess as it is a celebration of the state’s art and culture, and the collective intellect of its people. For Bengalis, Pujo is not just about devotion but also about feasting, pandal hopping, devouring the newest Pujo Sankhyas (Puja magazines), and reading a long-pending Tagore classic on a late afternoon post-bhog. In 2026, however, things considered staple by Bengalis saw intervention from the outside.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Months after the BJP government came to power in the state for the first time, there has been a significant cultural shift, including about the way the party wants the people of Bengal to celebrate its beloved festival.</p><h2>The Veg Diktat: Imposing Norms on a Feasting Culture</h2><p>Weeks before iron rods were planted and blueprints carved into the ground for grand, state-wide pandals, the VHP threw a wrench into preparations with a startling decree. The Hindu group, along with Bageshwar Dham’s Dhirendra Krishna Shastri, urged pandal organisers to observe strict vegetarianism within pandals and keep vendors serving non-vegetarian food away from them. Some leaders also urged residents of the state to consume vegetarian food.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>One of the defining features of Durga Puja celebrations lies in Bengal’s cultural synthesis and inclusivity. Unlike the rest of India, where nine days of Navratri are observed with strict vegetarianism, Bengal celebrates Durga Puja as a feast, enjoying non-vegetarian culinary delights as they welcome the Goddess home.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Thus, for many, the diktat felt like an indoctrination. The question was, how could some people or groups- that included those from outside the state - &nbsp;dictate dietary rules during the most-awaited festival of the year? The public pushback was almost immediate, as a feeling grew that it was an attempt to impose external religious norms on Bengal’s otherwise liberal socio-cultural customs. To many, it felt like an attack on individual freedom and the religious heritage that the festival historically embodied.</p><h2>Redefining Mahalaya: A Grand Spectacle That Missed the Mark</h2><p>&nbsp;</p><p>As CM Suvendu Adhikari cleared Shastri’s stance, terming it only a ‘request’, his government faced fresh allegations of north-Indianizing the Mahalaya celebrations at Eden Gardens.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Mahalaya, which marks the beginning of Devipaksha in the Hindu calendar, has been considered sacred for Bengalis from time immemorial. Scores of Bengalis across the world wake up in the wee hours of Mahalaya to hear the booming voice of Birendra Krishna Bhadra chanting the Chandi Path on the radio. It is a ritual that heralds the festivities six days later. Mahalaya has always been about remembering forefathers, accompanied by Bhadra’s voice setting the tone for the season.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><blockquote><p>This year, Adhikari’s government decided to ‘open’ the Durga Utsav with an expansive cultural show at Eden Gardens—a holy place for cricket lovers in India. Imagine a Christmas carnival being celebrated at Lord’s? Yes, unthinkable.&nbsp;</p></blockquote><p>&nbsp;</p><p>In Kolkata, Eden became the stage for an extravagance complete with a drone show and loud cheering. There is nothing inherently wrong with the show, except that it fundamentally misread Bengali culture. Somehow, the administration did not understand that Mahalaya is about paying respect and celebration in quiet reverence, not with pyrotechnics.&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>The event met with sharp criticism on social media, with many feeling the ‘crass’ celebration gave Mahalaya a Diwali filter, complete with fireworks. Puritans squirmed: fireworks on the day of Mahalaya? Since when?</p><p>&nbsp;</p><h2>The Chorbagan Tragedy: Systemic Neglect and the Cost of Grandiosity</h2><p>While the Bengali community rued the increasing North Indian influence on the revered festival, the deepest shock came during the main festival days. The tragic stampede in Chorbagan on Saptami evening claimed the lives of 19 people—mostly women and children—and left dozens injured. The Chorbagan pandal was one of the major draws of this year’s Durga Puja in Kolkata. Hundreds of thousands visited the pandal daily, but organizers evidently lacked emergency preparedness.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>The tragedy exposed severe lapses in crowd management, structural planning, and evacuation protocols. Critics argued that the emphasis on hyper-commercialisation, massive footfalls, and spectacular grandiosity overshadowed basic safety and public welfare. The organisers, comprising several BJP MLAs and leaders, went silent in subsequent days. On the day of the tragedy, eyewitnesses recounted that police personnel were missing at the venue while locals stepped up to handle rescue operations.</p><h2>Silencing the Written Word: The Vandalism of Literary Stalls</h2><p><br>So where was the police? They were ransacking and uprooting bookstalls across the city. The CPI(M) party traditionally puts up bookstalls during the festival, featuring not just books on communism, but also works by Tagore, Sarat Chandra, and more. Viral videos showed political goons ransacking and throwing books onto the road, destroying stalls even as police stood mute at a distance.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><blockquote><p>Just as new clothes embody the spirit of Pujo, new books have long been the soul of Bengali heritage. Imagine a state famed for its intellectuals—a land built on the written word—now surrendering to thugs who relentlessly ransacked bookstalls, flinging the legacy of Tagore and Bengal’s other literary legends into street mud. All the while, state machinery stood by in cowardly silence, refusing to stain its hands as centuries of cultural pride were ground into the dirt.</p><p>&nbsp;</p></blockquote><p>As the BJP came to power, many had breathed a sigh of relief, hoping it was finally the end of the TMC’s '<i>gunda raj.'</i> But what transpired on the streets of Kolkata—accusing the Left of tarnishing culture and policing ideology via books—was nothing less than hooliganism. The deliberate attack on bookstalls symbolising Bengal’s intelligentsia hinted at changing times within the state where mob culture takes precedence over democratic institutions.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>In the months since Adhikari was sworn in as Chief Minister, the people of Bengal have witnessed multiple changes—from forced vegetarianism and shifting the fabric of puja celebrations to a tragedy where the state refuses to take accountability.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>It’s not that the state flourished under TMC rule; clashes between TMC, Left, and right-wing groups were reported during past Pujas, but they were mostly isolated incidents. However, one could witness that crowd management under the previous government during Durga Puja was far better.</p><h2>Reclaiming the Spirit of Sharodotsav</h2><p><br>The confluence of food diktats, the tragic loss of human lives due to systemic neglect, and the silencing of literary spaces left many arguing that Durga Puja 2026 lost touch with its founding spirit. For decades, Bengal’s celebration of the goddess has superseded religion, caste, and class. It is a celebration for all, by all. However, this year, instead of serving as a unifying celebration of art, intellect, and community, the festival became a battleground for political polarisation, commercial excess, and administrative failure.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><i>(Disclaimer: The views of the writer do not represent the views of WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse the views of the writer.)</i></p>

From urging people to eat vegetarian food to vandalising book stalls and putting a Diwali filter on Mahalaya at Eden, Durga Puja in Bengal in 2026 witnessed a significant shift. Marred by the tragic stampede at Kolkata's Chorbagan, the festival made news this year for all wrong reasons. 

Durga Puja 2026 will be remembered as the year when West Bengal was stripped of its cultural ethos. A festival that celebrates good over evil, worships a goddess with limitless powers, and her homecoming, Durga Puja this year was in the news not for its stunning pandals, intricate idols, or the social messages represented through art each year. It was, instead, in the news for diktats, tragic deaths, hooliganism, and the death of intellect. Bengal, a land of artists and people known for their intellectual acumen, has been celebrating Durga Puja for centuries. The festival is as much a celebration of the goddess as it is a celebration of the state’s art and culture, and the collective intellect of its people. For Bengalis, Pujo is not just about devotion but also about feasting, pandal hopping, devouring the newest Pujo Sankhyas (Puja magazines), and reading a long-pending Tagore classic on a late afternoon post-bhog. In 2026, however, things considered staple by Bengalis saw intervention from the outside. Months after the BJP government came to power in the state for the first time, there has been a significant cultural shift, including about the way the party wants the people of Bengal to celebrate its beloved festival. The Veg Diktat: Imposing Norms on a Feasting Culture Weeks before iron rods were planted and blueprints carved into the ground for grand, state-wide pandals, the VHP threw a wrench into preparations with a startling decree. The Hindu group, along with Bageshwar Dham’s Dhirendra Krishna Shastri, urged pandal organisers to observe strict vegetarianism within pandals and keep vendors serving non-vegetarian food away from them. Some leaders also urged residents of the state to consume vegetarian food. One of the defining features of Durga Puja celebrations lies in Bengal’s cultural synthesis and inclusivity. Unlike the rest of India, where nine days of Navratri are observed with strict vegetarianism, Bengal celebrates Durga Puja as a feast, enjoying non-vegetarian culinary delights as they welcome the Goddess home. Thus, for many, the diktat felt like an indoctrination. The question was, how could some people or groups- that included those from outside the state - dictate dietary rules during the most-awaited festival of the year? The public pushback was almost immediate, as a feeling grew that it was an attempt to impose external religious norms on Bengal’s otherwise liberal socio-cultural customs. To many, it felt like an attack on individual freedom and the religious heritage that the festival historically embodied. Redefining Mahalaya: A Grand Spectacle That Missed the Mark As CM Suvendu Adhikari cleared Shastri’s stance, terming it only a ‘request’, his government faced fresh allegations of north-Indianizing the Mahalaya celebrations at Eden Gardens. Mahalaya, which marks the beginning of Devipaksha in the Hindu calendar, has been considered sacred for Bengalis from time immemorial. Scores of Bengalis across the world wake up in the wee hours of Mahalaya to hear the booming voice of Birendra Krishna Bhadra chanting the Chandi Path on the radio. It is a ritual that heralds the festivities six days later. Mahalaya has always been about remembering forefathers, accompanied by Bhadra’s voice setting the tone for the season. This year, Adhikari’s government decided to ‘open’ the Durga Utsav with an expansive cultural show at Eden Gardens—a holy place for cricket lovers in India. Imagine a Christmas carnival being celebrated at Lord’s? Yes, unthinkable. In Kolkata, Eden became the stage for an extravagance complete with a drone show and loud cheering. There is nothing inherently wrong with the show, except that it fundamentally misread Bengali culture. Somehow, the administration did not understand that Mahalaya is about paying respect and celebration in quiet reverence, not with pyrotechnics. The event met with sharp criticism on social media, with many feeling the ‘crass’ celebration gave Mahalaya a Diwali filter, complete with fireworks. Puritans squirmed: fireworks on the day of Mahalaya? Since when? The Chorbagan Tragedy: Systemic Neglect and the Cost of Grandiosity While the Bengali community rued the increasing North Indian influence on the revered festival, the deepest shock came during the main festival days. The tragic stampede in Chorbagan on Saptami evening claimed the lives of 19 people—mostly women and children—and left dozens injured. The Chorbagan pandal was one of the major draws of this year’s Durga Puja in Kolkata. Hundreds of thousands visited the pandal daily, but organizers evidently lacked emergency preparedness. The tragedy exposed severe lapses in crowd management, structural planning, and evacuation protocols. Critics argued that the emphasis on hyper-commercialisation, massive footfalls, and spectacular grandiosity overshadowed basic safety and public welfare. The organisers, comprising several BJP MLAs and leaders, went silent in subsequent days. On the day of the tragedy, eyewitnesses recounted that police personnel were missing at the venue while locals stepped up to handle rescue operations. Silencing the Written Word: The Vandalism of Literary Stalls So where was the police? They were ransacking and uprooting bookstalls across the city. The CPI(M) party traditionally puts up bookstalls during the festival, featuring not just books on communism, but also works by Tagore, Sarat Chandra, and more. Viral videos showed political goons ransacking and throwing books onto the road, destroying stalls even as police stood mute at a distance. Just as new clothes embody the spirit of Pujo, new books have long been the soul of Bengali heritage. Imagine a state famed for its intellectuals—a land built on the written word—now surrendering to thugs who relentlessly ransacked bookstalls, flinging the legacy of Tagore and Bengal’s other literary legends into street mud. All the while, state machinery stood by in cowardly silence, refusing to stain its hands as centuries of cultural pride were ground into the dirt. As the BJP came to power, many had breathed a sigh of relief, hoping it was finally the end of the TMC’s 'gunda raj.' But what transpired on the streets of Kolkata—accusing the Left of tarnishing culture and policing ideology via books—was nothing less than hooliganism. The deliberate attack on bookstalls symbolising Bengal’s intelligentsia hinted at changing times within the state where mob culture takes precedence over democratic institutions. In the months since Adhikari was sworn in as Chief Minister, the people of Bengal have witnessed multiple changes—from forced vegetarianism and shifting the fabric of puja celebrations to a tragedy where the state refuses to take accountability. It’s not that the state flourished under TMC rule; clashes between TMC, Left, and right-wing groups were reported during past Pujas, but they were mostly isolated incidents. However, one could witness that crowd management under the previous government during Durga Puja was far better. Reclaiming the Spirit of Sharodotsav The confluence of food diktats, the tragic loss of human lives due to systemic neglect, and the silencing of literary spaces left many arguing that Durga Puja 2026 lost touch with its founding spirit. For decades, Bengal’s celebration of the goddess has superseded religion, caste, and class. It is a celebration for all, by all. However, this year, instead of serving as a unifying celebration of art, intellect, and community, the festival became a battleground for political polarisation, commercial excess, and administrative failure. (Disclaimer: The views of the writer do not represent the views of WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse the views of the writer.)

<p>From urging people to eat vegetarian food to vandalising book stalls and putting a Diwali filter on Mahalaya at Eden, Durga Puja in Bengal in 2026 witnessed a significant shift. Marred by the tragic stampede at Kolkata's Chorbagan, the festival made news this year for all wrong reasons.&nbsp;</p>

Durga Puja in peril: From food diktats, tragic lapses to attacks on Bengal’s sensibilities

<p>Bangladesh’s Prime Minister Tarique Rahman has visited Durga Puja sites and temples, meeting members of the Hindu community and exchanging greetings as the country’s major Hindu festival is underway. On Tuesday, he visited sites in Rangpur, Rajshahi and Chattogram. The visits come as the Bangladeshi government has raised its financial grant for Durga Puja from Tk 4 crore to Tk 5 crore, declared three consecutive public holidays, and ordered tighter security arrangements nationwide.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>At a Sharadiya greetings programme at the Radha Gobinda Dharmasabha Temple in Rangpur, Mr Rahman said the country had long been home to people of all faiths and called for that coexistence to continue.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>“Just as people of every religion have lived together peacefully in this country for thousands of years, we want them to continue living together in peace for the next thousand years as well,” he told those gathered.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>He recalled that people of different religions had fought together in the 1971 independence war and had again come together during the 2024 student-led mass uprising that removed the previous government. “We must also work together, irrespective of religious beliefs and affiliations, if we want to build the Bangladesh we aspire to create,” he said.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Also Read: </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/all-male-anti-constitutional-cult-rahul-gandhi-attacks-rss-on-its-foundation-day-1792510370292"><strong>‘All-male, anti-constitutional cult’: Rahul Gandhi attacks RSS on its foundation day</strong></a></p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>The increased grant was approved after the Hindu Religious Welfare Trust requested Tk 4 crore; the prime minister later raised the sum to Tk 5 crore and personally handed over the cheque on 7 October. The same day the government also allocated Tk 3 crore for the Buddhist community’s Kathin Chibar Dan festival.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>A government notification issued on 7 October declared public holidays on 20, 21 and 22 October 2026. Combined with the regular weekend, this gives government employees five consecutive days off.&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Home Minister Salahuddin Ahmed said after a high-level coordination meeting that agencies at national, divisional, district and upazila levels had been instructed to maintain law and order. Measures include round-the-clock monitoring cells, improved coordination between police and volunteers, and efforts to ensure uninterrupted electricity and emergency lighting at puja venues.</p>

Bangladesh Prime Minister Tarique Rahman visited Durga Puja sites across the country and called for religious harmony as the government increased festival funding, declared three consecutive public holidays and strengthened security arrangements nationwide.

Bangladesh’s Prime Minister Tarique Rahman has visited Durga Puja sites and temples, meeting members of the Hindu community and exchanging greetings as the country’s major Hindu festival is underway. On Tuesday, he visited sites in Rangpur, Rajshahi and Chattogram. The visits come as the Bangladeshi government has raised its financial grant for Durga Puja from Tk 4 crore to Tk 5 crore, declared three consecutive public holidays, and ordered tighter security arrangements nationwide. At a Sharadiya greetings programme at the Radha Gobinda Dharmasabha Temple in Rangpur, Mr Rahman said the country had long been home to people of all faiths and called for that coexistence to continue. “Just as people of every religion have lived together peacefully in this country for thousands of years, we want them to continue living together in peace for the next thousand years as well,” he told those gathered. He recalled that people of different religions had fought together in the 1971 independence war and had again come together during the 2024 student-led mass uprising that removed the previous government. “We must also work together, irrespective of religious beliefs and affiliations, if we want to build the Bangladesh we aspire to create,” he said. Also Read: ‘All-male, anti-constitutional cult’: Rahul Gandhi attacks RSS on its foundation day The increased grant was approved after the Hindu Religious Welfare Trust requested Tk 4 crore; the prime minister later raised the sum to Tk 5 crore and personally handed over the cheque on 7 October. The same day the government also allocated Tk 3 crore for the Buddhist community’s Kathin Chibar Dan festival. A government notification issued on 7 October declared public holidays on 20, 21 and 22 October 2026. Combined with the regular weekend, this gives government employees five consecutive days off. Home Minister Salahuddin Ahmed said after a high-level coordination meeting that agencies at national, divisional, district and upazila levels had been instructed to maintain law and order. Measures include round-the-clock monitoring cells, improved coordination between police and volunteers, and efforts to ensure uninterrupted electricity and emergency lighting at puja venues.

<p>Bangladesh Prime Minister Tarique Rahman visited Durga Puja sites across the country and called for religious harmony as the government increased festival funding, declared three consecutive public holidays and strengthened security arrangements nationwide.</p>

Bangladesh PM Rahman visits Durga Puja sites as government boosts funding, holidays and security

Durga Puja 2026 celebrations began in Mumbai on October 16. From Alia Bhatt to Ranbir Kapoor, Vicky Kaushal, and Kajol, several Bollywood stars visited Mumbai's famous pandals to seek Maa Durga's blessings. Here's a look at the celebrities spotted.

<p>Durga Puja 2026 celebrations began in Mumbai on October 16. From Alia Bhatt to Ranbir Kapoor, Vicky Kaushal, and Kajol, several Bollywood stars visited Mumbai's famous pandals to seek Maa Durga's blessings. Here's a look at the celebrities spotted.</p>

Durga Puja 2026: Alia Bhatt, Ranbir Kapoor, Kajol, Vicky Kaushal, and other celebs bring festive glam to pandals

<p>It's Pujo season, and all roads in Mumbai lead to North Bombay Durga Puja, where, every year, the Mukerji family comes together to celebrate the festival with great aplomb. On Thursday, Bollywood star Kajol, along with her mother, veteran actress Tanuja, sister Tanishaa Mukerji and cousin Ayan Mukerji, was present at the inaugural event of their family's Durga Puja. Kajol looked radiant in a red saree as she mingled with other family members on the opening night. The actress even took to Instagram later to share photographs and a video from the festivities.</p><p><br>On Thursday, the Mukherjee family unveiled a grand idol of Goddess Durga and participated in the celebrations. Kajol offered a glimpse into the family gathering through a series of photographs on Instagram. Alongside the pictures, she reflected on the significance of the occasion in her caption.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>The actress wrote, “Today was all about #Maa in all her forms .. as a mother, as a daughter, as a protector and as a Goddess! #jaimaadurga and the madness begins.” (sic)</p><p>&nbsp;</p>

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transform: translateX(16px) translateY(-4px) rotate(30deg)"></div></div><div style="margin-left: auto;"> <div style=" width: 0px; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-right: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(16px);"></div> <div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; flex-grow: 0; height: 12px; width: 16px; transform: translateY(-4px);"></div> <div style=" width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-left: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(-4px) translateX(8px);"></div></div></div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center; margin-bottom: 24px;"> <div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 224px;"></div> <div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 144px;"></div></div></a><p style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; line-height:17px; margin-bottom:0; margin-top:8px; overflow:hidden; padding:8px 0 7px; text-align:center; text-overflow:ellipsis; white-space:nowrap;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/DehSDBtjhO7/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px; text-decoration:none;" target="_blank">A post shared by Kajol Devgan (@kajol)</a></p></div></blockquote>
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<p>&nbsp;</p><p>The carousel comprised of photos of the actress with her family. In one image, Kajol can be seen giving Tanuja a kiss on the head while posing with her and Tanishaa Mukerji. Kajol radiated festive vibes in a dual-tone red saree. She kept her hair open and opted for minimal makeup. Tanishaa wore a blue saree. Other photographs featured the sisters posing with cousins Ayan Mukerji and Sharbani Mukerji.</p><p>&nbsp;</p>

<blockquote class="instagram-media" data-instgrm-captioned data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/reel/Deii5LJiP0m/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" data-instgrm-version="14" style=" background:#FFF; border:0; border-radius:3px; box-shadow:0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width:540px; min-width:326px; padding:0; width:99.375%; width:-webkit-calc(100% - 2px); width:calc(100% - 2px);"><div style="padding:16px;"> <a href="https://www.instagram.com/reel/Deii5LJiP0m/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style=" background:#FFFFFF; line-height:0; padding:0 0; text-align:center; text-decoration:none; width:100%;" target="_blank"> <div style=" display: flex; flex-direction: row; align-items: center;"> <div style="background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 40px; margin-right: 14px; width: 40px;"></div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center;"> <div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; 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<blockquote class="instagram-media" data-instgrm-captioned data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/reel/DeidwvOhSAT/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" data-instgrm-version="14" style=" background:#FFF; border:0; border-radius:3px; box-shadow:0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width:540px; min-width:326px; padding:0; width:99.375%; width:-webkit-calc(100% - 2px); width:calc(100% - 2px);"><div style="padding:16px;"> <a href="https://www.instagram.com/reel/DeidwvOhSAT/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style=" background:#FFFFFF; line-height:0; padding:0 0; text-align:center; text-decoration:none; width:100%;" target="_blank"> <div style=" display: flex; flex-direction: row; align-items: center;"> <div style="background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 40px; margin-right: 14px; width: 40px;"></div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center;"> <div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; 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<p><br>The actress also posted a video capturing the unveiling of the Goddess Durga idol. The family gathered for the ceremony as the idol was revealed to those present.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Kajol appeared visibly excited, dancing and showering flowers during the occasion.</p><p>The Durga Puja celebrations have been closely associated with the Mukerji family for many years. Both Kajol and Rani Mukerji are known to be actively involved each year during the festival. Several prominent Bollywood celebrities visit the North Bombay Durga Puja each year.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>While the festival is celebrated with great aplomb, the family has also experienced personal losses in recent years as well. Deb Mukherjee died in March 2025, while Krishna Mukerji (Rani's mother) passed away in September 2026. Both had been closely associated with the family's Durga Puja festivities.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Kajol, Ayan Mukerji and other family members are continuing the tradition, keeping their longstanding connection with the celebrations alive.</p><h2>Kajol's upcoming film</h2><p>On the professional front, Kajol will next appear in Maharagni: Queen Of Queens. The film is directed by Charan Tej Uppalapati and also features Prabhu Deva, Naseeruddin Shah and Jisshu Sengupta. Further details about the film's release and promotional activities are awaited.</p>

Kajol, Tanishaa, and Ayan Mukerji united at North Bombay Durga Puja as they kickstarted the festivities on Thursday. Later, Kajol shared inside images of the celebration on social media. 

It's Pujo season, and all roads in Mumbai lead to North Bombay Durga Puja, where, every year, the Mukerji family comes together to celebrate the festival with great aplomb. On Thursday, Bollywood star Kajol, along with her mother, veteran actress Tanuja, sister Tanishaa Mukerji and cousin Ayan Mukerji, was present at the inaugural event of their family's Durga Puja. Kajol looked radiant in a red saree as she mingled with other family members on the opening night. The actress even took to Instagram later to share photographs and a video from the festivities. On Thursday, the Mukherjee family unveiled a grand idol of Goddess Durga and participated in the celebrations. Kajol offered a glimpse into the family gathering through a series of photographs on Instagram. Alongside the pictures, she reflected on the significance of the occasion in her caption. The actress wrote, “Today was all about #Maa in all her forms .. as a mother, as a daughter, as a protector and as a Goddess! #jaimaadurga and the madness begins.” (sic)

<p>Kajol, Tanishaa, and Ayan Mukerji united at North Bombay Durga Puja as they kickstarted the festivities on Thursday. Later, Kajol shared inside images of the celebration on social media.&nbsp;</p>

Durga Puja 2026: Kajol kicks of celebrations along with mother Tanuja, sister Tanishaa and cousin Ayan Mukerji

<p>Durga Puja has finally arrived and the festival is incomplete without spending hours exploring different neighbourhoods and admiring the decorations with friends and family. However, a long day of pandal hopping requires more preparation than just choosing an outfit and heading out.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Visitors can get tired from walking long distances, navigating busy streets and waiting in lines, especially if they forget some of the basics.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>So if you are planning to explore pandals during Durga Puja 2026, here are a few essentials to keep in mind so you can make the experience more fun and comfortable.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Also Read: </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/navratri-2026-9-days-9-forms-of-goddess-durga-and-9-colours-check-the-complete-list-1791697287285"><strong>Navratri 2026: 9 days, 9 form of Goddess Durga and 9 colours</strong></a></p><h2>Comfortable clothes and shoes&nbsp;</h2><p>Traditional outfits and accessories are a very important part of Durga Puja. Your clothing options should also take into account the hours you may spend outdoors. Cotton kurtas, breathable shirts and lightweight dresses work well for daytime outings. You can opt for a saree or kurta-pyjamas or fusion wear for the evening celebrations.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Footwear needs equal attention as well. Choose well-fitting sneakers, comfortable flats or supportive sandals that can handle walking for long periods. Take a small bag. Although you don’t need to carry a big bag when visiting pandals, don’t forget to bring along a compact bag to keep your essentials such as a fully charged mobile phone and power bank, wallet, tissues, hand sanitizer, water bottle and some cash. Store valuables in locked compartments and do not carry unnecessary items.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Also Read: </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/navratri-2025-9-yummy-recipes-for-9-days-of-navratri-1758438229159"><strong>Navratri 2025: 9 yummy recipes for 9 days of the festival&nbsp;</strong></a></p><h2>Keep your phone charged</h2><p>Pandal hopping can take longer than expected; therefore, planning your route beforehand can help you cover more places without spending too much time travelling between them. Make a list of the pandals you want to visit and check the traffic restrictions and transport arrangements locally before leaving. It is recommended to carry a power bank to avoid running out of battery.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Also Read:</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/lifestyle/navratri-2026-5-bollywood-garba-songs-you-can-t-miss-from-dholi-taro-to-nagada-sang-dhol-1791705067546"><strong> Navratri 2026: 5 Bollywood Garba songs you can't miss, from Dholi Taro to Nagada Sang Dhol</strong></a></p><h2>Stay hydrated</h2><p>Spending several hours outdoors can increase sweating and fluid loss. Therefore, carry drinking water and take regular sips rather than waiting until you feel very thirsty. Coconut water, chaas and lemon water can also be useful options.</p><h2>Carry light snacks</h2><p>With so much to explore, it is easy to lose track of meal times during pandal hopping. But not eating for hours can make you feel sleepy. Have a good meal before you leave and for longer trips you might want to take a small snack. Carrying fruit or nuts is simple.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Also Read: </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/navratri-2025-what-each-colour-symbolises-and-how-to-wear-them-1758450085968"><strong>Navratri 2025: What each colour symbolises and how to wear them</strong></a></p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Durga Puja is also a time to indulge in street foods like phuchka and kathi rolls. Enjoy the food, but choose vendors who appear to follow good hygiene practices and serve freshly prepared food.</p><h2>Take breaks</h2><p>Trying to visit every location in one outing may leave you exhausted. Add short breaks into your plans, particularly if you are walking for several hours. Find somewhere to sit down, drink water and eat when needed.</p>

Durga Puja is a time for exploring pandals, and eating festive foods. But it is also necessary to wear comfortable footwears and carry water bottles. Here are the essentials to keep in mind before heading out for Pandal hopping.

Durga Puja has finally arrived and the festival is incomplete without spending hours exploring different neighbourhoods and admiring the decorations with friends and family. However, a long day of pandal hopping requires more preparation than just choosing an outfit and heading out. Visitors can get tired from walking long distances, navigating busy streets and waiting in lines, especially if they forget some of the basics. So if you are planning to explore pandals during Durga Puja 2026, here are a few essentials to keep in mind so you can make the experience more fun and comfortable. Also Read: Navratri 2026: 9 days, 9 form of Goddess Durga and 9 colours Comfortable clothes and shoes Traditional outfits and accessories are a very important part of Durga Puja. Your clothing options should also take into account the hours you may spend outdoors. Cotton kurtas, breathable shirts and lightweight dresses work well for daytime outings. You can opt for a saree or kurta-pyjamas or fusion wear for the evening celebrations. Footwear needs equal attention as well. Choose well-fitting sneakers, comfortable flats or supportive sandals that can handle walking for long periods. Take a small bag. Although you don’t need to carry a big bag when visiting pandals, don’t forget to bring along a compact bag to keep your essentials such as a fully charged mobile phone and power bank, wallet, tissues, hand sanitizer, water bottle and some cash. Store valuables in locked compartments and do not carry unnecessary items. Also Read: Navratri 2025: 9 yummy recipes for 9 days of the festival Keep your phone charged Pandal hopping can take longer than expected; therefore, planning your route beforehand can help you cover more places without spending too much time travelling between them. Make a list of the pandals you want to visit and check the traffic restrictions and transport arrangements locally before leaving. It is recommended to carry a power bank to avoid running out of battery. Also Read: Navratri 2026: 5 Bollywood Garba songs you can't miss, from Dholi Taro to Nagada Sang Dhol Stay hydrated Spending several hours outdoors can increase sweating and fluid loss. Therefore, carry drinking water and take regular sips rather than waiting until you feel very thirsty. Coconut water, chaas and lemon water can also be useful options. Carry light snacks With so much to explore, it is easy to lose track of meal times during pandal hopping. But not eating for hours can make you feel sleepy. Have a good meal before you leave and for longer trips you might want to take a small snack. Carrying fruit or nuts is simple. Also Read: Navratri 2025: What each colour symbolises and how to wear them Durga Puja is also a time to indulge in street foods like phuchka and kathi rolls. Enjoy the food, but choose vendors who appear to follow good hygiene practices and serve freshly prepared food. Take breaks Trying to visit every location in one outing may leave you exhausted. Add short breaks into your plans, particularly if you are walking for several hours. Find somewhere to sit down, drink water and eat when needed.

<p>Durga Puja is a time for exploring pandals and eating festive foods. But it is also necessary to wear comfortable footwear and carry water bottles. Here are the essentials to keep in mind before heading out for Pandal hopping.</p>

Durga Puja 2026: Power banks, water bottles and more, a foolproof guide to pandal hopping

<p>For years, Allen Park, in the Park Street area of Kolkata, has been known for its Christmas celebrations. It is set to get a new festive identity this year as it will host a Durga Puja for the first time in centuries. Park Street’s Christmas and New Year celebration is iconic and has attracted scores of people for hundreds of years. However, this year Allen Park will have a new puja organised by the Kolkata Sanatani Sangha, a group headed by several BJP functionaries.&nbsp;</p><p><br>The organisers have reportedly stated that they want a grand celebration rooted in Bengali traditions and Sanatani rituals. Cultural programmes, aarti and prasad distribution have also been planned through the five days of the festival.&nbsp;</p><p><br>The puja committee includes BJP general secretary Navin Mishra as secretary and BJP spokesperson Shankudeb Panda as president.&nbsp;</p><p><br>Mishra, a resident of Park Street, said the idea of bringing a Durga Puja to the locality had been on his mind since he first contested the 2015 civic elections.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>He told Times of India, “Park Street has not traditionally been a venue for Durga Puja. There used to be a small puja here more than 200 years ago, but it happened only once or twice. After that, there has been no Durga Puja in Park Street. We are creating history.”&nbsp;<br>The organisers plan to give the puja a distinctly Bengali character, with performances showcasing Baul folk music and traditions from Purulia, Bankura, North Bengal and other parts of Bengal.</p><p><br>A grand aarti on every evening from Chaturthi to Dashami has also been planned.&nbsp;<br>“We want people to come to Park Street specifically to see the grand evening aarti from Chaturthi to Dashami just as people visit the Varanasi ghats to see the Ganga aarti. Families from neighbouring districts can come here, enjoy the cultural programmes, have prasad and watch the aarti. We want this puja to be a spectacle while following traditional norms,” Mishra said.</p><p><br>The organisers are considering starting the cultural programmes on Mahalaya, although the formal puja rituals will begin from Chaturthi.&nbsp;</p><p><br>The committee is also reaching out to prominent citizens, businessmen, academics and retired professionals from the locality to serve as patrons. Mishra said the organisers wanted the puja to remain free of political pressure and not inconvenience residents or other visitors.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>"We have no objection to anyone celebrating their festival. Christmas should be celebrated beautifully. Park Street has its own charm during Christmas. We want everyone to follow their traditions, while ensuring that our Bengali and Sanatani culture is also represented,” he said.</p><h2>Allen Park’s history of Christmas celebrations</h2><p><br>Allen Park’s association with public celebrations stretches back to the Park Street Carnival, which began at the venue in 2007. The Bengal government later took over the carnival in 2011 and rechristened it the Christmas Festival, making it a major part of Kolkata’s year-end celebrations.</p><p><br>The new Durga Puja at the same spot will add more cultural diversity to the place, which has long been known for celebrating Christmas. Police have already flagged the first puja at Allen Park as a major crowd-management challenge, with the venue expected to become a new attraction during the festive season.</p>

For the first time in hundreds of years, Allen Park in Kolkata's iconic Park Street area—traditionally renowned for its Christmas and New Year celebrations—will host a Durga Puja this year. 

For years, Allen Park, in the Park Street area of Kolkata, has been known for its Christmas celebrations. It is set to get a new festive identity this year as it will host a Durga Puja for the first time in centuries. Park Street’s Christmas and New Year celebration is iconic and has attracted scores of people for hundreds of years. However, this year Allen Park will have a new puja organised by the Kolkata Sanatani Sangha, a group headed by several BJP functionaries. The organisers have reportedly stated that they want a grand celebration rooted in Bengali traditions and Sanatani rituals. Cultural programmes, aarti and prasad distribution have also been planned through the five days of the festival. The puja committee includes BJP general secretary Navin Mishra as secretary and BJP spokesperson Shankudeb Panda as president. Mishra, a resident of Park Street, said the idea of bringing a Durga Puja to the locality had been on his mind since he first contested the 2015 civic elections. He told Times of India, “Park Street has not traditionally been a venue for Durga Puja. There used to be a small puja here more than 200 years ago, but it happened only once or twice. After that, there has been no Durga Puja in Park Street. We are creating history.” The organisers plan to give the puja a distinctly Bengali character, with performances showcasing Baul folk music and traditions from Purulia, Bankura, North Bengal and other parts of Bengal. A grand aarti on every evening from Chaturthi to Dashami has also been planned. “We want people to come to Park Street specifically to see the grand evening aarti from Chaturthi to Dashami just as people visit the Varanasi ghats to see the Ganga aarti. Families from neighbouring districts can come here, enjoy the cultural programmes, have prasad and watch the aarti. We want this puja to be a spectacle while following traditional norms,” Mishra said. The organisers are considering starting the cultural programmes on Mahalaya, although the formal puja rituals will begin from Chaturthi. The committee is also reaching out to prominent citizens, businessmen, academics and retired professionals from the locality to serve as patrons. Mishra said the organisers wanted the puja to remain free of political pressure and not inconvenience residents or other visitors. "We have no objection to anyone celebrating their festival. Christmas should be celebrated beautifully. Park Street has its own charm during Christmas. We want everyone to follow their traditions, while ensuring that our Bengali and Sanatani culture is also represented,” he said. Allen Park’s history of Christmas celebrations Allen Park’s association with public celebrations stretches back to the Park Street Carnival, which began at the venue in 2007. The Bengal government later took over the carnival in 2011 and rechristened it the Christmas Festival, making it a major part of Kolkata’s year-end celebrations. The new Durga Puja at the same spot will add more cultural diversity to the place, which has long been known for celebrating Christmas. Police have already flagged the first puja at Allen Park as a major crowd-management challenge, with the venue expected to become a new attraction during the festive season.

<p>For the first time in hundreds of years, Allen Park in Kolkata's iconic Park Street area—traditionally renowned for its Christmas and New Year celebrations—will host a Durga Puja this year.&nbsp;</p>

Kolkata’s iconic Park Street, known for Christmas celebrations, set for its first Durga Puja in centuries

<p>West Bengal Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari has rolled out a fresh set of guidelines for Durga Puja 2026. Here's everything you need to know:</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>1. No Durga Puja Carnival This Year</strong>&nbsp;The state will not organise the Durga Puja Carnival in 2026, breaking from the tradition followed since 2016.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>2. Complete Liquor Ban on Maha Ashtami</strong>&nbsp;Sale of liquor will be banned across all shops and bars in the state on Maha Ashtami, October 19, 2026.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>3. Grants Not for All Puja Committees Anymore</strong>&nbsp;Government grants will no longer go to every Puja committee. Big-budget committees have been asked to skip the assistance, and the CM criticised the earlier practice of giving grants to all committees without scrutiny.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>4. Rs 1 Lakh "Optional" Grant for Needy Committees</strong>&nbsp;Only committees found to be genuinely in need, after scrutiny, will receive the Rs 1 lakh financial assistance.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>5. Grand Mahalaya Show at Eden Gardens Instead</strong>&nbsp;A four-hour programme depicting West Bengal's Durga Puja traditions will be held at Eden Gardens on October 10, complete with a drone show.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>6. No Blocking of National Highways</strong>&nbsp;Puja organisers will not be allowed to block National Highways for Puja-related activities.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>7. 13 Key Kolkata Roads Off-Limits for Closure</strong>&nbsp;Puja celebrations will not be permitted to shut down 13 designated important roads across Kolkata.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>8. DJ Ban During Puja and Immersion</strong>&nbsp;Playing DJs will be prohibited both during Durga Puja celebrations and during idol immersion (visarjan).</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>9. No Cranes for Idol Immersion</strong>&nbsp;Cranes will not be permitted for use during the immersion of Durga idols.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>10. No Pandal Inaugurations Before Mahalaya</strong>&nbsp;Pandals will only be allowed to open for inauguration during Matri Paksha, not before.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><i>(A related appeal — asking organisers to avoid any distortion of Durga idols or pandal themes that could hurt religious sentiments — was also part of the CM's guidelines.)</i></p><p><br>&nbsp;</p>

WB CM announces 2026 Durga Puja guidelines: no carnival, liquor ban on Ashtami, grants only for needy committees, DJ ban, no highway blocking, no cranes for immersion, and a grand Mahalaya show at Eden Gardens instead.

West Bengal Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari has rolled out a fresh set of guidelines for Durga Puja 2026. Here's everything you need to know: 1. No Durga Puja Carnival This Year The state will not organise the Durga Puja Carnival in 2026, breaking from the tradition followed since 2016. 2. Complete Liquor Ban on Maha Ashtami Sale of liquor will be banned across all shops and bars in the state on Maha Ashtami, October 19, 2026. 3. Grants Not for All Puja Committees Anymore Government grants will no longer go to every Puja committee. Big-budget committees have been asked to skip the assistance, and the CM criticised the earlier practice of giving grants to all committees without scrutiny. 4. Rs 1 Lakh "Optional" Grant for Needy Committees Only committees found to be genuinely in need, after scrutiny, will receive the Rs 1 lakh financial assistance. 5. Grand Mahalaya Show at Eden Gardens Instead A four-hour programme depicting West Bengal's Durga Puja traditions will be held at Eden Gardens on October 10, complete with a drone show. 6. No Blocking of National Highways Puja organisers will not be allowed to block National Highways for Puja-related activities. 7. 13 Key Kolkata Roads Off-Limits for Closure Puja celebrations will not be permitted to shut down 13 designated important roads across Kolkata. 8. DJ Ban During Puja and Immersion Playing DJs will be prohibited both during Durga Puja celebrations and during idol immersion (visarjan). 9. No Cranes for Idol Immersion Cranes will not be permitted for use during the immersion of Durga idols. 10. No Pandal Inaugurations Before Mahalaya Pandals will only be allowed to open for inauguration during Matri Paksha, not before. (A related appeal — asking organisers to avoid any distortion of Durga idols or pandal themes that could hurt religious sentiments — was also part of the CM's guidelines.)

<p>WB CM announces 2026 Durga Puja guidelines: no carnival, liquor ban on Ashtami, grants only for needy committees, DJ ban, no highway blocking, no cranes for immersion, and a grand Mahalaya show at Eden Gardens instead.</p>

Durga Puja 2026: 10 big announcements by West Bengal CM Suvendu Adhikari (in order of importance)

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Kajol radiates in red as Mukerji family unveils Goddess Durga Idol in Mumbai

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