A slice of Kolkata in the heart of Delhi

As pandals glitter with lights and crowds jostle through narrow lanes, Delhi's own 'mini-Kolkata' comes alive in dazzling colour.

- YATHARTH VOHRA

Durga Puja is more than a festival - it is an explosion of devotion, nostalgia, and community spirit that draws tens of thousands every year.

Across the neighbourhood's sprawling blocks, several puja committees compete to outshine one another with themed pandals, elaborate idols, and cultural programmes that last five days.

At the Cooperative Ground Durga Puja Samity's pandal, which is marking its 50th year, inspiration comes from Satyajit Ray's classic film Sonar Kella - the "Golden Fortress." It is among the most visited in Chittaranjan Park.