Kolkata’s Puja Canvas: 10 Pandals to Watch in 2026

Kolkata: The countdown to Durga Puja 2026 has already begun, and Kolkata’s major puja committees are preparing installations that blend tradition with contemporary storytelling. This year’s themes range from historic landmarks and mythology to Bengal’s cultural heritage and tributes to celebrated personalities.

Here are 10 pujas expected to draw attention this year:

Sreebhumi Sporting Club – Hawa Mahal:
The Lake Town puja is taking inspiration from Jaipur’s iconic Hawa Mahal, recreating its distinctive architectural character as the centrepiece of the pandal.

Ekdalia Evergreen – Somnath Temple:
One of south Kolkata’s best-known pujas will showcase the grandeur of the Somnath Temple, bringing elements of its architectural identity into the festive setting.

Chetla Agrani – Bengal’s Folk Heritage:
The theme looks towards rural Bengal, incorporating traditional artistic forms and village aesthetics to highlight the region’s cultural roots.

Santosh Mitra Square – Vande Mataram:
The puja will explore the historical significance of Vande Mataram, connecting the iconic song with India’s nationalist movement.

Samaj Sebi Sangha – Mahapujoy Mahanayak:
The puja will honour legendary Bengali actor Uttam Kumar, with the presentation linked to the actor’s birth centenary.

Kumartuli Park – O Ganga Tumi Boichho Keno:
The Ganga takes centre stage in a theme examining the river’s cultural importance and its enduring relationship with Kolkata.

Ballygunge Cultural Association – Jojon:
The concept focuses on relationships, connection and togetherness, giving the traditional Puja celebration a contemporary interpretation.

See Also

Puja on Track: Kolkata’s Metro Pandal Trail

Tala Prattoy – Biyojon:
The theme explores separation and the emotional process of letting go, using artistic expression to communicate the idea.

Alipore Sarbojanin – Ramayana:
The ancient epic becomes the foundation of the pandal narrative, with episodes from the Ramayana being brought alive through the installation.

Suruchi Sangha – Padma:
The lotus forms the central idea of the New Alipore puja, drawing on its associations with purity, beauty and spirituality.

With each committee adopting a distinct visual language, Durga Puja 2026 is set to offer visitors more than elaborate pandals—it will be a journey through architecture, history, mythology and Bengali culture.