Experience the Vibrancy of Durga Puja in Mumbai

Even though Kolkata is famous for its grand Durga Puja celebrations, Mumbai has its own unique way of celebrating this beloved festival. As the festival approaches, the city is buzzing with excitement and joy. From October 9 to 13, Mumbai will come alive with the spirit of Durga Puja, showcasing the rich traditions of Bengal.

.

Delicious Food Awaits

One of the highlights of Durga Puja is undoubtedly “The Food.” From traditional Bengali sweets like rasgulla and sandesh to savory delights such as Bhapa Macher Paturi, Daab Chingri, Kathi Rolls, macher jhol (fish curry) and shorshe ilish (hilsa fish in mustard sauce) etc. every bite tells a story of Bengali culture, making it an essential part of celebration.

.

Beautiful Pandal Displays

As you explore through the city, you will encounter beautiful pandals that reflect creativity and craftsmanship. Each pandal has its own unique theme, often inspired by social issues or mythological tales. The entire festival is the amalgamation of traditional rituals and modern celebration.

.

Some of the notable pandals you must consider exploring to experience the vibrancy of the Durgotsav Festival in Mumbai⎯

BOMBAY DURGABARI SAMITI

Tejpal, Mumbai

Bombay Durgabari Samiti was established in the 1930s and hosts Mumbai's oldest Durga Puja. It emphasizes traditional rituals, including Bodhan, Kumari Puja, and Sandhipujan. Various competitions and events are organized through its social and cultural committee.

When: 9 to 12 October

Where: Tejpal Hall, Adjacent to Mathuradas Vissanji Memorial Hall, Tejpal Road.

Map Link: Bombay Durgabari Samiti

.

BENGAL CLUB SHIVAJI PARK

Shivaji Park, Dadar

Bengal Club shivaji Park had been celebrating Durga Puja since 1922, marking its 89th Durga Puja celebration, making it Mumbai’s oldest pandals. The pandal is known for its grand aarti, conch-blowing competition, and impressive Dhunuchi dance contest.

When: 8 to 13 October

Where: 2RHP+7X5, Veer Savarkar Marg, Shivaji Park, Dadar West

Map Link: Bengal Club Shivaji Park

.

NORTH BOMBAY SARBOJANIN DURGA SAMITI

SNDT Ground, Juhu

This pandal is backed by Mukherjee family, so there are high chances of spotting celebs like Rani Mukherjee, Kajol etc. There is a huge 17 feet tall idol of Maa Durga adorned with jewelry, do catch dhunuchi nach. This upscale pandal is fully air-conditioned, with tight security and plenty of food and shopping stalls.

When: 8 to 13 October

Where: SNDT University Ground 1, Daulat Nagar, Santacruz, Juhu

Map Link: North Bombay Sarbojanin Durga Samiti

.

POWAI BENGALI WELFARE ASSOCIATION

Hiranandani Garden, Powai

The festival takes place at PBWA Puja ground and has been celebrated since 2006, marking its 19th edition in 2024. Huge Durga idol is adorned with gorgeous jewelry and the celebration includes cultural performances and a delicious bhog.

Where: MCGM Ground, Opp. Jalvayu Vihar, Adjacent to BEST Bus Terminus, Hiranandani Gardens, Powai

When: 8 to 13 October

Map Link: PBWA Puja

.

RAMKRISHNA MISSION DURGOTSAV

Khar

One of the most iconic and oldest pandals with a very calm and beautiful venue to visit.

When: 8 to 13 October

Where: Ramakrishna Mission Hospital, Ramakrishna Mission Marg, 12th Rd, Khar West

.

THAKUR VILLAGE BENGALI ASSOCIATION

Kandivali East, Mumbai

The Durga idol will be styled in a classic "dhaker shaaj" with Kulo décor. It has traditional rituals and cultural performances, along with local treats like kosha mangsho and mishti.The dhununchi naach highlights the local festive spirit.

When: 9 to 12 October

Where: Evershine Club Ground, Thakur Village, Kandivali

Map Link: Thakur Village Bengali Association

.

VASHI DURGOTSAV

Vashi, Navi Mumbai

Vashi Durgotsav celebrates its 20th year with a tradition including Bodhan, Amantran, Sandhipuja, and Pushpanjali. The pandal features zero-waste, a plastic-free celebration using eco-friendly materials like betel nut plates. It focuses on traditional rituals, local cuisine, and a commitment to sustainability

When: 8 to 13 October

Where: Kairali Samaj Hall, Sector 9, Vashi

.

CHEMBUR DURGA PUJA ASSOCIATION

Chembur, Mumbai

Chembur Durga Puja Association is celebrating its 70th edition this year. The celebration includes cultural performances and a delicious bhog, drawing visitors from all over the city. Stalls are put up by artisans from rural Bengal, and the special area that’s dedicated to activities for children like magic shows.

When: 8 to 12 October

Where: WING-A, SETH HEIGHTS, Galiakot Wala Rd, Tolaram Colony, Chembur

Map Link: Chembur Durga Puja Association

.

AAMRA PRABASHI DURGOTSAV

Thane

The pandal theme is inspired by the Kedarnath Temple. A large section of the grounds is dedicated to a food festival celebrating Bengali flavors.

When: 9 to 12 October

Where: Hiranandani Estate, Thane West, Thane, Maharashtra 400607

Map Link: Aamra Prabashi Durgotsav

.

NOTUNPALLI SARBOJONIN DURGA PUJA PANDAL

Bandra West, Mumbai

The Notunpalli Sarbojonin Durga Puja Pandal in Bandra mixes art, devotion, and tradition beautifully. The pandal features a stunning idol of Goddess Durga as its centerpiece. The pandal promotes a community-centric approach, offering an authentic experience of Bengal in Bandra

When: 9 to 12 October

Where: Behind Linking Road Market, Bandra West.

Map Link: Notunpalli Sarbojonin Durga Puja Pandal

.

To enjoy Durga Puja in Mumbai fully, plan your visit ahead of time. Keep an eye on the social media pages of the pandals for event schedules. This year promises a mix of traditional rituals and modern celebrations.