Every autumn, Kolkata becomes the stage for Bengal's biggest festival—Durga Puja. While rooted in tradition, Durga Puja in Kolkata has long evolved into a joyous celebration of art and collective spirit. In recognition of its scale and cultural richness, UNESCO inscribed it on the Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity in 2021. At the festival's core are the 'pandals'—elaborate, temporary structures designed around imaginative themes, from mythology to modern social issues. Created through months of community-driven artistry, these installations and the idols turn the city into a massive open-air gallery. Before the festival officially begins, visitors can catch a glimpse of this incredible creativity at a special preview exhibition, offering early access to the most striking pandals.
The Preview Show of Durga Puja Art, conceived by Kolkata-based socio-cultural organisation MassArt, returns for its fourth edition from September 18 to 22, 2025, at Kolkata’s Alipore Museum. Since its debut in 2022, the event has been praised both in India and internationally as a groundbreaking concept. By providing early access to some of the city’s most stunning pandals, it gave tourists and art lovers the chance to experience the artistic brilliance of Durga Puja without the overwhelm of festival crowds. This year, the show will feature a special accessibility initiative in collaboration with UNESCO and IIT Kharagpur, alongside a new platform to showcase grassroots artisans on the global stage.
The 2025 edition will introduce a new feature: the Autumn Art Fair—a curated showcase and marketplace for handcrafted works by Bengal’s local artisans. Each piece will draw inspiration from the themes of 24 iconic Durga Puja installations, offering visitors a chance to engage with the artistic spirit of the festival in a more intimate, collectible form.
Designed to support both traditional and contemporary makers, the fair aims to bridge the gap between artisans, art collectors, and industry professionals. It will be more than just a celebration of local talent—it’s a stepping stone toward global recognition, with plans to help participating artists reach international platforms like the India Art Fair, Art Dubai, and Art Basel.
This year, accessibility emerges as a key priority for the Durga Puja celebrations. In response to a request from UNESCO, the West Bengal government is taking concrete steps to make the festival more inclusive—especially for senior citizens and people with disabilities. Traditionally, navigating the city’s densely packed pandals can be challenging, with large crowds and limited infrastructure posing barriers to access. The new initiative seeks to change that by introducing thoughtful design interventions, improved crowd management, and mobility-friendly routes at key locations.
What is the best time to visit Durga Puja pandals in Kolkata?
For a more relaxed experience, visit pandals during the day to avoid the evening crowds. However, the city truly comes alive after sundown with illuminated decorations and cultural programs. Many pandals also host cultural events in the evening.
What types of art can visitors expect to see during Durga Puja in Kolkata?
Visitors can experience a vibrant array of art forms, including the elaborately designed pandals—temporary structures with imaginative themes ranging from mythology to contemporary social issues. These pandals transform the city into a sprawling open-air art gallery each autumn. Then there are the idols handcrafted in Kumartuli, Kolkata’s traditional potters’ quarter. Skilled artisans create these stunning clay sculptures with intricate detail. Also check out the amazing light displays which enhance the themes and designs of each pandal.
What makes the Preview Show of Durga Puja Art unique?
The Preview Show, organised by MassArt, offers visitors early access to Kolkata’s most stunning Durga Puja pandals before the festival officially begins. It allows tourists and art lovers to appreciate the festival without facing the usual festival crowds.
What are the must-do things during Durga Puja in Kolkata?
Experience the city’s themed pandals showcasing stunning art and creativity. People go pandal hopping—even late into the night—to explore the city’s intricately themed and stunning installations. Enjoy traditional Bengali cuisine and lively cultural performances. Don’t miss the historic 'bonedi bari' pujas, where old aristocratic families celebrate with grandeur and tradition.
What are the festival dates this year?
In 2025, the Durga Puja festivities in Kolkata will begin with Mahalaya on Sunday, September 21, and the main celebrations will run from Sunday, September 28, to Thursday, October 2.
