Pandals

The city pulses, Kolkata blossoms with thousands of scarlet tents. As the main autumn celebration of West Bengal's Durga Puja approaches, pandals - temporary festive temples - emerge in squares, at street intersections, and all around. Erected from tied bamboo poles, the structures are lavishly draped with red silk, garlands of flowers, and glowing illuminations. When the preparations for the celebration are complete, adorned statues of goddess Durga will occupy the central altar in each tent. Then, sweet incense smoke will billow, drums will play, and a procession of festively dressed residents and guests will come together to rejoice in the triumph of good over evil, to glorify the Great G...View all