In pictures: From Kumartuli and Ekdalia to Sreebhumi, Kolkata celebrates Sasthi

As Sasthi marks the start of Durga Puja festivities, Kolkata’s streets and pandals come alive with crowds, elaborate decorations and creative themes. Here’s a glimpse of the city as pandal-hoppers step out to soak in the festive spirit. 

Visitors gather outside a pandal in north Kolkata on Sasthi morning.  

Volunteers wear masks at Dum Dum Park Tarun Sangha. This year’s pandal traces Bengal’s maritime and trade history, spanning the period from the 7th century BC to the 18th century. 

A steady stream of visitors gathers at the Sreebhumi Sporting Club Durga Puja pandal in Lake Town, South Dum Dum, as the elaborate decorations drew crowds on Sasthi. Their pandal this year draws inspiration from Rajasthan’s Hawa Mahal.  

A floating Durga Puja pandal in north Kolkata explores the significance of the local pond in the lives of neighbourhood residents. 

Pandal-hoppers crowd Kumartuli Sarbojanin in north Kolkata at midnight on Sasthi eve. 

Illuminated decorations light up Paddapukur in Bhowanipore. 

A crowd gathers at Gariahat on Sasthi morning, with pandal-hoppers and shoppers adding to the bustle of one of south Kolkata’s busiest neighbourhoods during the festive season. 

Visitors queue outside the Hindustan Park Durga Puja pandal. 

Pandal-hoppers gather at Ekdalia Evergreen in south Kolkata.