Durga Puja through the lens of India's diverse cultural celebrations

By Manashi Mandal

Durga Puja is one of India’s most vibrant festivals, beautifully reflecting the country’s cultural diversity. While the central theme of worshipping Goddess Durga remains consistent, the celebrations vary widely across regions.

In West Bengal, especially Kolkata, Durga Puja is a grand cultural affair with artistic pandals, themed idols, music, dance, and community feasting. The celebration peaks with rituals like “Sindoor Khela” on Dashami. In Gujarat, the festival is celebrated as Navratri, marked by Garba and Dandiya Raas nights of colorful dance and devotion. Maharashtra blends traditions with Bengali communities celebrating Durga Puja and locals observing Navratri through Golu displays and temple visits.

Idol of Goddess Durga (Picture courtesy: Supratik Barai)

Whereas Odisha mirrors Bengal’s rituals, with unique silver filigree pandals known as “Chandi Medha” adorning cities like Cuttack. In Assam, Durga Puja is infused with local music, dance, and communal harmony. Southern states like Tamil Nadu and Karnataka emphasize Golu arranged dolls and spiritual gatherings over idol worship.

Despite regional differences, the core message of celebrating the divine feminine and the triumph of good over evil unites the country. Durga Puja is more than a religious event; it is a celebration of India’s pluralism, where diverse traditions come together in joy, devotion, and unity.

Manashi Mandal is a final year student of M.A. Journalism and Mass Communication, School of Media and Communication, Adamas University

The article is edited by students of M.A. Journalism and Mass Communication, Semester 3