Durga Puja in Kolkata is not just a religious festival – it is the lifeline of the city, blending spirituality, culture, and artistry. The origins of Durga Puja in Bengal can be traced back to the 16th century, but the festival gained prominence in Kolkata during the 18th century.

The first grand community puja, or barowari puja, was organized in 1790 by twelve friends in Guptipara, Hooghly, which inspired the tradition of sarbojanin (community) pujas in Kolkata. By the 19th century, wealthy zamindar families of Kolkata, such as the Sabarna Roy Choudhurys of Barisha, the Mullicks of Pathuriaghata, and the Deys of Sobhabazar, turned Durga Puja into a social and cultural event, inviting British officials and dignitaries.

With time, Durga Puja transformed from private household rituals into massive public celebrations. The 20th century saw the rise of theme-based pujas, innovative pandals, and artistic idols, making Kolkata the cultural capital of Sharodotsav.

Today, Durga Puja in Kolkata is recognized globally, even earning a place in UNESCO’s Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity (2021). It is not just a festival – it is a grand carnival where art, devotion, and community spirit come together to celebrate the arrival of the Goddess.