Navratri is a 9-day celebration in India that honours the Goddess Durga in nine various forms. It represents the triumph of the good over evil. It lasts nine nights (thus the name “Navratri”—nava means nine and Ratri means night) and is dedicated to worshipping various manifestations of the Goddess Durga. Along with the Garbha Pandals, one should see the lovely Durga Pandals all across Mumbai.
The Bengalis do it well. Durga Pujo is an important yearly event for them, which they celebrate with joy and zeal. Over the following nine days, they embrace the goddess Durga as their daughter and adore her femininity, strength, and divinity. It is a stunning depiction of Goddess Durga dressed in sparkling apparel. These pandals are impressive to see. You may learn about true Bengali culture and traditions while also enjoying delicious Bengali cuisine. Here are 5 Durga Pandals to visit in Mumbai.
The Bengal Club, Shivaji Park, Dadar West
Every year, the 2.5-acre pandal in Shivaji Park’s Bengal Club, which has been organizing Durga Puja since 1922, hosts a variety of visually appealing stalls selling scrumptious cuisine, smart accessories, and West Bengali antiques. Last year, an eco-friendly Durga idol was built using non-toxic, water-soluble paints and clay. The morning puja is conducted in accordance with typical Bengali rituals. Conch-blowing contests and Dhunuchi dancing competitions are held in the evenings. This year, they will commemorate their 89th Durgotsab in Mumbai.
Bombay Sarbojanin Durga Puja Samiti, Juhu
The North Bombay Sarbojanin Durga Puja Samiti hosts one of Mumbai’s oldest puja events. Paddamshri Shasdhar Mukerji established this event in 1948, and it is now known as “Mukherjee Durga Puja.”
Rani Mukherjee, Kajol, Ayan Mukherjee, Tanuja, Amitabh Bachchan, and Jaya Bachchan are among the many celebrities who attended the Bombay Sarbojanin event. During the puja, the committee honours an ecologically friendly Durga idol brought from Kolkata. This year marks the 77th anniversary of the pandal’s puja in Mumbai.
Navi Mumbai Bengali Association, Sector 6, Vashi, Navi Mumbai
The Navi Mumbai Bengali Association, headquartered in Sector 6, Vashi, serves as a lively cultural hub for Navi Mumbai’s Bengali population. Established to promote and celebrate Bengali culture, customs, and festivals, this association acts as a hub for social gatherings, events, and activities that reflect Bengal’s rich legacy. Throughout the year, the organization offers numerous cultural activities, such as music and dance performances, literary events, and art exhibitions, to develop a sense of community among its members.
During the Durga Puja season, the group is very active, hosting elaborate events that draw large crowds and showcase ancient rituals, delectable Bengali cuisine, and beautiful décor. Overall, the Navi Mumbai Bengali Association plays an important role in conserving and promoting the cultural identity of Bengalis residing in Navi Mumbai, making it a key landmark for both locals and visitors interested in experiencing Indian culture.
Mumbaichi Mauli
Mumbai’s famous Mumbaichi Mauli is celebrated with a big parade each year. This year’s Aagman was held on September 29, 2024, and devotees celebrated as they welcomed the Devi. During Navratri, there are several pandals in the Pratiksha Nagar region, but Mumbaichi Mauli stands out due to its rich history and lavish design. It is also among the oldest Pandals in Mumbai.
Bombay Durgabari Samiti
Bombay Durgabari Samiti is one of the oldest Durga pandals in Mumbai. This year marks the 94th anniversary of the Durga pandal being established. They receive a large number of visitors each year. The goddess Durga statue on exhibit here was created by an artisan in Kolkata. The Bombay Durgabari Samiti began its tradition in Mumbai, and it has since evolved into a combination of tradition and modern traditions.
