“The true essence of Durga Puja lies in unity, tradition, and inclusivity,” ~ North Bombay Sarbojanin Durga Puja Samiti.
Durga Puja, a celebration of Goddess Durga’s triumph over evil, is a vibrant fusion of devotion, art, and festivity, characterized by grand rituals, mesmerizing performances, and a profound sense of unity. The 77th edition of the North Bombay Sarbojanin Durga Puja at SNDT Ground, Santa Cruz, exemplified this spirit, blending spiritual reverence with a rich cultural legacy, enhanced by Moroccan-inspired décor. This year’s theme introduced a global touch to traditional rituals, transforming the pandal into a visually stunning masterpiece, merging art and culture in perfect harmony.
The event, often called the Bollywood Durga Puja of India, also attracted celebrities like Rani Mukerji, Kajol, Ishita Dutta, Vatsal Sheth, Nibedita Paal, Jyoti Mukerji, Maera Mishra, Bharat Godambe, Dorris Godambe, Tanisha Mukherji, Rupali Ganguly and Sumona Chakroborty, who had gathered to seek blessings from the awe-inspiring 18-foot idol of Goddess Durga, crafted by artisans from Kolkata. The divine tableau also included idols of Saraswati, Lakshmi, Kartik, and Ganesh.
A major highlight of the celebration was India’s largest bhog service, where more than 10,000 devotees gathered under one air-conditioned dome to partake in the sacred meal. The Samiti upheld its ethos of inclusivity, with celebrities joining hands to serve the bhog, affirming that everyone, irrespective of caste, colour, or financial status, is equal in Maa Durga’s presence. The bhog, served on October 10th and 11th, featured a traditional menu of rice, khichdi, sweets, and chutneys. Adding to the vibrancy were cultural performances by renowned artists like Daler Mehndi, Pritam, and Pawandeep Rajan, whose soulful music filled the air with devotion.
In keeping with its legacy of extraordinary cultural programs, the pandal came alive with performances by some of the nation’s most celebrated singers. This year’s star-studded lineup included Daler Mehndi, Pritam and Pawandeep Rajan, and many more, who took to the stage to offer their soulful renditions in devotion to Maa Durga. North Bombay Sarbojanin Durga Puja Samiti continued its tradition of bringing together Bollywood’s biggest stars and devotees from all walks of life, creating a celebration that honors culture, unity, and the spirit of Durga Puja
In addition to the dazzling idols and performances, the pandal was meticulously designed, offering a serene yet vibrant space for spiritual reflection and community bonding. The Moroccan-inspired decor added an artistic and global touch, making this year’s Durga Puja a truly memorable event for all attendees. Founded in 1948 by Bollywood stalwarts like Ashok Kumar and Kishore Kumar, the North Bombay Sarbojanin Durga Puja remains a beacon of cultural significance and inclusivity in Mumbai, continuing to enchant generations of devotees.
