Durga Puja 2025: Your Guide To Puchkas And Pandal Hopping In Kolkata, Delhi, Mumbai, And Bengaluru

Durga Puja transforms cities into vibrant tapestries of light, music, and devotion, where art, tradition, and community converge. From Kolkata’s innovative, larger-than-life pandals to Delhi’s soulful celebrations in Chittaranjan Park, Mumbai’s star-studded and community-driven festivities, and Bengaluru’s nostalgic yet contemporary setups, the festival is as much about the visual spectacle as it is about the food. This year, each city has pushed creative boundaries, immersive themes, kinetic art, heritage rituals, and community celebrations, inviting devotees and visitors to experience the spirit of Durga Puja in all its splendour. Alongside these stunning pandals, culinary experiences offer an equally rich journey, showcasing Bengali classics, innovative adaptations, and festive specials across the country’s top restaurants.

Kolkata

The way this city lights up with joy and celebration during Durga Puja is something beyond words. Streets turn into rivers of light and music, and pandals transform into museums of imagination, each narrating a story in its own voice. This year, Kolkata made headlines for its sheer innovation: from futuristic visions of an AI-ridden world to interpretations where the goddess appears as Vanvasini.

Pandals To Visit

1. Arjunpur Amra Sabai Club

With its 2025 theme Mukho Mukhi, this pandal embraces reflections, kinetic art, and a vision of the goddess as a warrior in steel. Expect mirrored surfaces, dynamic installations, and an immersive experience that blurs the line between viewer and deity.

Where: NC-15, Arjunpur Rd, Taltala, Kolkata, West Bengal 700059

2. Chalta Bagan Lohapatty (Manicktalla Chaltabagan Lohapatty)

Founded in 1943, this is one of Kolkata’s famed pujas. It often embeds ecological and technological motifs; past editions have used windmills and solar panels for lighting. This year, it aims to highlight the old-world charm of North Kolkata culture through its theme, Mool or roots. 

Where: 159D, Vivekananda Rd, Manicktala, Azad Hind Bag, Machuabazar, Kolkata, West Bengal 700009

3. Lal Bagan Nabankur

Known for meticulous craftsmanship and grand scale, this club’s pandals often evoke awe with their size and detailed structural work. This year, they have created an aquarium-like pandal to highlight the issue of pollution and climate change.

Where: Raja Dinendra St, Manicktala, Sahitya Parishad, Ward Number 15, Kolkata, West Bengal 700006

4. Ballygunge Cultural Association

A long-standing, heritage puja in South Kolkata, it draws large crowds for its classic idol style and strong local patronage.

Where: 20, Lake View Rd, Lake Terrace, Kalighat, Kolkata, West Bengal 700029

Places To Eat At

1. JW Marriott Kolkata

Delhi

Every year, Delhi brings in the spirit of this nine-day festival with a bang, and this year was no different. Delhites welcomed the navdurgas with beautiful pandals in various locations spread across the city. And the food? From mouth-watering puchkas, spicy jhalmuri, to decadent mishti, it becomes quite clear that the city's love for food goes much beyond chole bhature or dal makhani.

Pandals To Visit 

1. CR Park (Chittaranjan Park)

In 2025, the B Block Durga Puja Samiti celebrates its 50th anniversary with a Mitti or soil-themed pandal, symbolising 'Mother Earth.' The goddess and the entire pandal are crafted in earthy tones, emphasising environmental consciousness. The pandal features special Chandan Nagar lighting from West Bengal, adding to its visual appeal. 

Where: B Block, Chittaranjan Park

2. Minto Road Puja Samity 

Established in the 1940s, Minto Road Puja Samity is one of Delhi's oldest Durga Puja celebrations. The pandal is known for its imaginative themes, ranging from mythology to social issues, blending faith with creativity. Evenings come alive with bhajans, theatrical performances, and lively dances, bringing the community together. The sumptuous bhog served here is a highlight, offering a true taste of Bengali hospitality. 

Where: Minto Road, Kali Mandir, Deen Dayal Upadhayay Marg, New Delhi, Delhi 110002

3. Greater Kailash II 

GK-II Puja offers a mix of contemporary décor and tradition, making it a must-visit for those seeking a modern take on the festival. The pandal features artistic idols and theme-based decorations, reflecting the community's creativity and devotion. Cultural programs, including dance and music performances, add to the vibrant atmosphere. 

Where: Gurdwara Rd, Block S, Greater Kailash II, Greater Kailash, New Delhi, Delhi 110048

Places To Eat At

1. 6 Ballygunge Place

Celebrated for its authentic Bengali thalis, this restaurant brings the festive spirit of Durga Puja to life. From classic machh-bhaat to rich mishti, every dish reflects traditional flavours and seasonal ingredients. The warm, heritage-style ambience complements the culinary experience, making it perfect for family gatherings.

Where: Chittaranjan Park, Delhi

2. Parvanii

Parvanii offers traditional Bengali cuisine with a contemporary twist, balancing heritage recipes with modern plating. Festive specials like chingri malai curry and kosha mangsho highlight the rich flavours of Bengal. The cosy décor and attentive service create an inviting atmosphere for Puja celebrations.

Where: Chittaranjan Park, Delhi

3. Bijoli Grill – Banga Bhawan

Bijoli Grill is known for its signature Bengali comfort foods and sweets, keeping nostalgia alive. From luchi-aloor dum to roshogolla, the menu covers festive favourites for every palate. The casual, community-friendly setting makes it ideal for enjoying Pujo meals with friends and family.

Where: Chittaranjan Park, Delhi

Mumbai

Mumbai takes the spotlight during the Ganpati celebrations, but it is also one of the top players when it comes to preparing the mightiest of feasts during Durga Puja celebrations. I once had the opportunity to go to one of Bandra's many pandals and was surprised to see the sheer turnout of people at food stalls, enjoying a piece of their home away from home. 

Pandals To Visit

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Fever (@feverfmofficial)

1. Lokhandwala Durgotsav

Celebrating its 30th year in 2025, Lokhandwala Durgotsav is renowned for its star-studded evenings and dazzling décor. The pandal attracts a blend of celebrities and devotees, offering a vibrant atmosphere that combines traditional rituals with modern flair. The theme for this year is Operation Sindoor, paying tribute to the Indian Armed Forces. 

Where: Maharana Pratap Rd, Lokhandwala Complex, Andheri West, Mumbai, Maharashtra 400102

2. Notunpalli Sarbojonin Durgotsab

A community-centric celebration at Patwardhan Park, Bandra, this pandal emphasises inclusivity and vibrant cultural performances. The 2025 theme features a rock-cut temple-inspired design and idols crafted in traditional Bengali style. Festivities include Dhunuchi dance, live music, and concluding Sindoor Khela rituals on Dashami.

Where: Bandra West, Mumbai, Maharashtra 400050 

3. Powai Sarvajannin Durgotsab

Organised by the Powai Bengali Welfare Association, this pandal combines traditional rituals with modern artistic expressions. This year’s theme, Jaya Hey, celebrates scientific progress and the nation’s defence forces. Cultural programs, performances, and community engagement make it a popular destination during the festival.

Where: MHADA Colony 19, Powai, Mumbai, Maharashtra 400076

Places To Eat At

HyLo

This Durga Puja, HyLo is bringing the rich culinary traditions of Bengal with a festive collaboration featuring renowned Chef Ananya Banerjee. The Vegetarian Thali celebrates Bengal’s soulful classics with delicacies like Beetroot Chop, Aloo Dum, Basanti Pulao, Luchi, and sweet endings with Patishapta and Kheer Komola.

Where: HyLo, Kala Ghoda and HyLo Taproom by Igloo in Jio World Drive

Oh! Calcutta

Famous for signature Bengali comfort food, from machh-bhaat to roshogolla. Festive offerings blend heritage recipes with modern presentation.

Where: Bandra West, Mumbai

The Calcutta Club

This restaurant celebrates Bengali cuisine with cultural flair during Puja. It offers traditional meals alongside community-friendly festive experiences.

Where: Bandra West, Mumbai

Bengaluru

Pandals To Visit

1. Socio-Cultural Association 

The Socio-Cultural Association in Bengaluru celebrates Durga Puja, inspired by the intricate Bengali style of rangoli. The pandal features traditional decorations and cultural performances that showcase the rich heritage of Bengali culture. The festivities include dance performances, devotional music, and community gatherings that bring together people from all walks of life to celebrate the festival.

Where: SJP Kalyana Mantapa, Sri Vibuthipura Math, Basavanagar Main Rd, near Canara Bank, Basavanagara, Bengaluru, Karnataka 560008

2. The Bengalee Association 

Celebrating its 75th year in 2025, The Bengalee Association in Ulsoor stands as a pillar of the Bengali community in Bengaluru. The association is renowned for offering an authentic and immersive Durga Puja experience, faithfully recreating the timeless rituals and vibrant festivities that define this iconic festival. 

Where: 1/A, Assaye Rd, Shivan Chetty Garden Post, Sivanchetti Gardens, Bengaluru, Karnataka 560042

3. Jayamahal Durga Puja 

Jayamahal Durga Puja in Bengaluru brings back the nostalgia of childhood with its theme, Lost Childhood. The pandal features decorations and activities that evoke memories of youth, offering a unique experience for visitors. The festivities include puppet shows, live concerts, and DJ dandiya nights, creating a lively and engaging atmosphere for people of all ages.

Where: Jayamahal Extension, Jayamahal, Bengaluru, Karnataka 560006

Places To Eat At

1. ITC Windsor

Indulge in a thoughtfully curated menu that captures Bengal’s culinary soul, from the crisp Kumror Jaali Bhaja and Haansher Deemer Devil with Aam Kasundi to the comforting Aloo Posto and delicately spiced Phoolkopir Dum. 

Where: Raj Pavilion, ITC Windsor, Bengaluru

2. DYN, Hilton Bangalore Embassy Golflinks

Bengali festivities begin on a sweet note, so start at the Pithe and Mishti counter, where sweets are rolled and plated live, evoking the joy of family kitchens during special occasions. From there, the trail moves to Fish Tales, where mustard hilsa, kosha mach, and other regional favourites pay homage to Bengal’s enduring love for fish. At the Street Adda, phuchka, jhalmuri, and crisp telebhaja recreate the atmosphere of Kolkata’s lively corners. 

Where: Embassy Golf Links Business Park, Challaghatta, Bengaluru, Karnataka 560071