Goddess Durga.
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As usual, Kolkata's top Durga Puja pandals have come up with a wide variety of themes this year to draw in the crowds. They range from the traditional to the very innovative and modern. Here's a selection of them:
- North Kolkata's Ahiritola Sarbojonin is making the Chinese community part of Durga Puja celebrations, using the Chinese Dragon Festival as inspiration. Teams of lion dancers, dragons, and drummers will create a mini China.
- The College Square pandal has created a replica of Vivekanada Rock in Kanyakumari.
- Suruchi Sangha Puja as always, has an attractive outdoor display themed on a different Indian state. This year, it's Goa. The pandal is resplendent with Portuguese-influenced Goan art and architecture, and marine life. The organizers are aiming to raise awareness of the importance of saving the oceans from pollution.
- Central Kolkata's renowned Mohammad Ali Park Puja has chosen soccer, much loved by Bengalis, for its theme this year. The pandal is a replica of the Johannesburg stadium.
- In south Kolkata, Sanghasree is focusing on tales of ancient times, early men and their traditional way of life. The pandal walls are decorated with cave paintings.
- The Ballygunge Cultural Association has brought rural life in Rajasthan to their pandal, complete with desert.
- Mudiali Club's pandal is in the shape of an elaborate crown.
- Badamtala Ashar Sangha, near Kalighat in south Kolkata, has come up with the theme "Ulto Pothe" or "on the reverse path". Use of lighting is the main attraction, along with the display of art work.
Which pandals have you visited this year and what have been the highlights for you? Share your favorites with us here and see what other people have to say.
For more information, including photos and videos of the pandals in Kolkata, check out Durga Online.
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