Newtown Sarbojanin
Year: 5th
Budget: Rs 1.2 crore
The look: In this magnificently illuminated pandal, Rintu Das has seen the goddess as Padmabhushan. The structure features a large, magnificent crystal dome, illuminated floral installations, and the integration of wooden boats within the design. The pandal features motifs of water, air, honey, lotus buds and beehives, besides the lotus itself.
Boats, crafted in Balagarh, nestle the goddess in the middle, visible in the background as open petals of the lotus.
In the moat in front of her, 4,000 yellow buds with green stalks rise above the water multiplying their presence with their shadows in the water. All around there are bees sucking out of countless flowers on the walls or floating overhead. From the centre of the roof hangs a giant beehive.
IB Block
Year: 40th
Budget: Rs 45 lakh
The look: The pandal is a replica of a temple in Himachal Pradesh’s Kangra and has been built with fibre reinforced plastic. The structure has a golden finish with golden curtains and has been brought in from Saharanpur. 3D artistes have come from Jaipur to project on the pandal Durga-related motifs with light and sound effects. The park is also hosting a fair till October 22.
Fun funda: Oct 16 (morning) Sit-and-draw. Oct 17 (morning)- Quiz. Oct 18 (morning)- Extempore speech. Oct 20- Music and audio drama
Food fiesta: Oct 18- Khichuri with Gobindobhog rice, beguni, labra, alur dom, chutney, papad, payesh. Oct 19- Luchi, chholar dal, begun bhaja, alu phulkopir tarkari, paneer curry, chutney, papad, simui payesh. Oct 20- Fried rice, fish chop, chhanar kofta, mutton/ fish curry, chutney, papad, ice cream. Oct 21- Rice, shukto, macher matha diye dal/ dal with alu bhaja, mixed tarkari, pabda curry (two pieces), chutney, papad, rosogolla.
FD Block
Year: 42nd
Budget: Undisclosed
The look: The pandal is a brilliant exercise in the tribal art of the Gond community of Chhattisgarh. Prasanta Pal has created magic with the dots and dashes that adorn their mudhouse walls and floors. He has also used fish scales and other signature patterns to fill animal and plant shapes as well as sacred trees like the Tree of Life, with herbivores at the base of the food chain and omnivores towards the top. Natural elements like charcoal (black), leaves (green) and different types of soil have been used. Organic items from nature like sal leaves, hogla leaves, donga, coir, hanging roots of trees, the main axis of coconut clusters, bamboo slices and more have been collected from villages over months for use here. It is a treat to study each section. If there are dots and dashes on sal leaves at the entrance, there are birds and flowers using small wicker baskets overhead and elephants made of bark of date palm trees, cane and bamboo slices on the walls. Leaves of ashwattha trees have been used to create a cluster of peacock feathers. The idol is also crafted using the same art form.
Fun funda: Oct 16- dance show Rituranga at 6.30pm, children’s songs and play Ogo Bodhu Sundari, at 8.15pm. Oct 17- audio play Abhayaranya and children’s play Roddurer Golpo. Oct 18 – recitation, dance and ramp walk on Durga pujor saatkahon, directed by Pampia Basu Nath. Oct 19- Audio play Atmahatya, recitation by Manan group. Oct 20- prize distribution and a dance show, directed by Sohini Das Hartman. Oct 21- bodhon musical group, Satabarshe Salil, a tribute to Salil Chowdhury. Oct 24- play Dharmabotar by the group Sayak, directed by Meghnad Bhattacharya.
AE (Part 2)
Year: 50th
Budget: Rs 35 lakh
The look: Visit AE Park for an Avatar-like feel, where a glow garden has been created. The pandal is the creation of Tollywood production designers and art directors Shibaji Pal and Bablu Singha. They have created huge flowers and trees. The message is to protect greenery. Electric blue light plays with shadow to create a futuristic feel.
Food fiesta: Oct 18- Khichuri, labra, French fries, tarkari, chutney, papad, payesh. Oct 19- Luchi, chholar dal, mixed vegetables with paneer, chutney, papad, payesh. Oct 20- Pulao, bhaja, alur dom, navratna korma, chutney, papad, payesh. Oct 21- Rice, bhaja, dal, alu/ begun bhaja, katla kalia, chicken, chutney, papad, payesh.
BC Block
Year: 50th
Budget: Rs 80 lakh
The look: Bimal Samanta has used twigs, bark, rotten plywood and the like in the pandal on the theme Jiyonkathi. The message is to save greenery. Twigs and jute sticks are used to form wheels, chandeliers, leaves, saucers and various shapes. They also hang cascade-like against black walls. Barks of uprooted trees have been sliced to create formations. A hole has been left in the wall beside the idol, through which trees in the park are visible, connecting the theme to Nature outside. The idol, by Nabakumar Pal, is painted in the lightest pastel shades and clad in a painted motif-laden sari, in a bright red backdrop. Dinesh Poddar’s illumination wraps the pandal in a visually soothing embrace. The theme song, with a folksy lilt, weds a banyan tree to an ashwattha tree. The outer wall presents Samanta’s scrapbook — scribbles and sketches — on a black background.
Fun Funda: Oct 18 – Musical show Kallolini, followed by felicitation of residents who have seen the puja for 50 years. Oct 19- Dhunuchi dance by residents to mark 50 years. Oct 20- Audio play Bou Katha Kow and Bitongsho, both directed by Pranab Banerjee, with recitation by Sourima Pal in between; musical programme titled Sediner Sonajhora Sondhya
Food fiesta: Oct 17- Jeera rice, chalkumro bhaja, moog daal, phulkopir paturi, mochar ghonto, peper chutney, chhanar jilipi. Oct 18- Khichudi, beguni, Tawa paneer/ jeera alu, papad, labda, chutney, rosogolla. Oct 19- Naan puri, paneer finger, patal paneer, chana masala, khejur amsatwa chutney, ice cream. Navami- not yet decided.
EC Block
Year: 50th
Budget: Rs 60 lakh
The look: The theme is The Mahabharata, and theme-maker Samrat Bhattacharjee has highlighted several lesser-known aspects of the epic through sculptures, paintings and installations.
Among the striking installations is a bust of Krishna, an armed Arjuna, Shiva presenting the Gandiva bow to Arjuna and scenes of the war. A painting of Draupadi’s vastra haran has a section rendered in red to suggest that she was menstruating at the time. A huge installation of Ashwatthama the elephant hangs upside down from the ceiling too. To the left of the serene idol stands a form of Draupadi, while in front of it lies Bhishma on his bed of arrows — an image that is especially striking.
Fun funda: Oct 16- Women of the block, led by Dancers’ Guild, will welcome the goddess with an arati utsav. Agomoni music and dance to follow. Oct 17- Musical scripted piece. Oct 18- Music and ladies’ drama Prati Gharer Golpo Kotha. Oct 19- Dance, old and modern Bengali songs by Parnika guest troupe and residents’ play Gulshan. Oct 20- Music tribute to Uttam Kumar in the matinee idol’s centenary year.
Food fiesta: Oct 17- Basanti pulao, dhokar dalna, potato/ phulkopir tarkari, veg chop, khejur amshwatta. chutney, papad, rosogolla. Oct 18- Khichuri, labra, beguni, tomato chutney, papad, bonde. Oct 19- Luchi, chholar dal, mattar paneer, veg kofta, papaya chutney, payesh. Oct 20- Basmati rice, moong dal, jhuri alu bhaja, mutton curry, paneer curry, mango chutney, papad, sandesh.
DB Block
Year: 49th
Budget: Rs 7 lakh
The look: The pandal is a white and gold replica of a zamindar house with the idol, stage as well eating area built inside it.
Fun funda: Oct 16- agomoni music. Oct 17- devi vandana and devotional music, dance, recitation, and play Alvida Na Kehna about suicide prevention, directed by Satarupa Banerjee. Oct 18- recitation, music and comedy Babar Hisab, also directed by Banerjee. Oct 19- poetry collage, music and a musical tribute to Uttam Kumar. Oct 20- Ami Ek Jajabar, a musical tribute to Bhupen Hazarika, whose centenary year it is.
Food fiesta: Oct- 18- khichuri, beguni, bandhakopi, chutney, papad, rasgolla. Oct- 19- luchi, chholar dal, jeera rice, paneer masala, chutney, papad, mishti. Oct 20- veg cutlet, salad, fried rice, veg Manchurian, chutney, papad
DL Block
Year: 42nd
Budget: Rs 22 lakh
The look: A traditional idol by Pradip Rudrapal is placed inside a zamindar house replica.
Fun funda: Oct 16- dance, recitation by the block’s literary group Susamay, directed by Sanhita Sengupta. Karate demonstration by the block’s training centre, drama Kojagori by Salt Lake Kathaghar. Oct 17- music, recitation, Rabindrasangeet, and Sreeradhar Abhisar, based on Bhanusingher Padabali, directed by Madhumanti Datta Chakraborty. Oct 18- music, kids’ recitation, a two-part fashion show - the first for kids and the second celebrating 100-plus years of Indian cinema, directed by Priyadarshini Guha. October 19- music, dance, recitation. Oct 20- music, dance Ohe Sundar directed by Ambalika Chatterjee, audio drama Sa Ja Ha N, based on Dwijendralal Roy’s play on the Mughal emperor, directed by Pradeepta Roy. The night will culminate with dandiya.
Food fiesta: Oct 18- khichuri, labra, beguni, chutney, papad, payesh. Oct 19- luchi, pulao, dhokar dalna, kopir tarkari, chutney, papad, bonde/ mihidana. Oct 20- Dehradun rice, dal, shukto, chhanar dalna, chutney, papad, Lady Kenny/ Kamalabhog.
Labony Estate (EB Block)
Year: 52nd
Budget: Rs 23 lakh
The look: Artiste Jhantu Maji has created a colourful, 20ft high pandal showcasing items that are almost forgotten now – bullock carts, palanquins, elephants with howdah etc. The installations are made of fibre, strings etc. The idol is traditional.
Fun funda: Oct 22- Play titled Nabalok Sabalok, directed by Tapas Kumar Das. Oct 23- drama Ekti Obastob Golpo, directed by Debojyoti Basu. All through the Pujas, visitors will be entertained by a group of 10 dhakis.
Food fiesta: Oct 18- khichuri, labra, beguni, alur dom, chutney, papad, bonde. Oct 19- (contributory) rice, mutton / chicken / tarkari, chutney, papad mishti.
EE Block
Year: 29th
Budget: Rs 23 lakh
The look: The pandal resembles a palace and the idol is traditional.
Fun funda: Oct 16 and 17 (morning) competitions like conchshell blowing, dancing to the dhak and drawing. Cultural programmes in the evening till October 20
Food fiesta: Oct 18- Basanti pulao, tarkari, chutney, papad, payesh. Oct 19- khichuri, labra, bhaja, chop, chutney, papad. Oct 20- rice, dal, bhaja, chicken curry, chutney, papad.
FC Block
Year: 44th
Budget: Rs 9 lakh
The look: The block is looking back to its inception 44 years ago and getting a traditional ekchala idol, like it did then. The mandap resembles the natmandir of a zamindar house. The block is providing free e-rickshaw service for senior citizens to come to and go back from the pandal.
Fun funda: Oct 16- Variety programmes by residents. Oct 17- guest artistes to sing Bengali songs. Oct 18- guest artistes to sing folk songs. Oct 19- dhaak playing, dhunuchi dance and conchshell-blowing contests. Oct 20- baul singers are coming from Santinketan to perform.
Food fiesta: Oct 17- khichuri, labra, chutney, papad, mishti. Oct 18- fried rice, phulkopir dalna, chutney, papad, mishti. Oct 19- luchi, chholar dal, chhanar kofta, chutney, papad, mishti. Oct 20- Gobindobhog chaler dum pulao, dhokar dalna, Kashmiri alur dum, chutney, papad, mishti. Oct 21- rice, kosha mangsho, chutney, papad, mishti.
FE Block
Year: 42nd
Budget: Rs 31 lakh
The look: Theme artiste Prabir Saha is presenting nakshi katha, the traditional art form where layered fabrics are embroidered with running stitches to tell pictorial stories. Saris have been brought in from Birbhum’s Nanoor, that is a major cluster where women artisans practise this traditional art form. The saris have been decorated inside the pandal and outside, where there is also a large painting of women working together to create the material.
Fun funda: Oct 16- Rano-pa dance, 7pm. Oct 17- Dance by Saranya Sarkar, 7.30pm , followed by group dance and recitation. Oct 18- Baul songs, dhak recital. Oct 19- conch shell-blowing and dandiya dance. Oct 20- dhunuchi dance, 7.30pm, ethnic fashion show, 8pm. Oct 22- Songs, recitation and dance; musical extravaganza, 8.20pm. Oct 23 – songs, recitation, two audio plays and dance; Oct 24- Recitation, Chalo Patol Tuli, a Charbak production, 7.10pm.
Food fiesta: Oct 18- Rice, sukto, moog dal, jhuri alu bhaja, chhanar dalna, chutney, papad, curd. Oct 19- luchi, chholar dal, begun bhaja, pulao, phulkopi roast, chutney., papad. Oct 20- peas pulao, mutton kosha, fish kalia, chutney, papad, golap jam and ice cream. (For vegetarians) dahi vada, veg cutlet, Radha ballavi, alur dom, navraran polao, paneer and potato malai kofta, papad, chutney, salad, jilipi, ice cream.
GC Block
Year: 42nd
Budget: Rs 20 lakh
The look: The idol is traditional, and residents have painted alpona across the pandal, under Rupa Gupta’s guidance.
Fun funda: Residents will perform from October 16 to 20 and there will be guest singers too. Besides that, October 16 will feature dance on the festivals of Bengal, directed by Anuradha Saha. Oct 17- an Asha Bhosle tribute, directed by Susmita Das. Oct 18- a music and dance tribute to the Kapoor legacy of Bollywood. Oct 19- play Phaash, directed by Debabrata Das.
Food fiesta: Oct 17- rice, moog dal with koraishuti, jhuri alu bhaja, chyachra/ chhanar kofta, chicken kosha/ dhokar dalna, pineapple chutney, papad, rajbhog, mouth freshener. Oct 18- luchi, stuffed alu, veg cutlet, rice, moong dal, dhokar dalna/ phulkopi roast, fish kalia/ dahi vada. Oct 19- khichuri, beguni, kumro bhaja, alu bhaja, labra, khejur aamsatwa chutney, papad, payesh, amriti. Oct 20- koraishutir kachuri, chholar dal, paneer pasinda with ketchup, pulao, mattar paneer, aam er chutney, papad, mishti doi. Oct 21 (dinner)- Radhaballavi, alur dum, fried rice, mutton curry/ navratna korma, chutney, papad, rasgolla. Vegetarians will get an additional potoler dorma.
GD Block
Year: 42nd
Budget: Rs 49 lakh
The look: Assi Ghat of Varanasi has been replicated in the park. There a sculptures of saints meditating and smoking chillum, paintings of Shiva, installations of Nandi the bull… The water will be an illusion through the use of lights and lasers and three priests are being flown in from Varanasi to perform the detailed seven-step Ganga arati daily from 7.30pm to 8.30pm. The idol, including its attire, is made of clay.
Fun funda: Oct 16- music, folk dances directed by Sanchari Samaddar. Oct 17- music, audio drama Bou Kotha Kow, directed by Ila Nandy, poetry collage Ora Kaaj Kore about the struggles of farmers and labourers along with songs by Salil Chowdhury, Bhupen Hazarika along with dance. The act is being directed by Sangita Saha. Kids’ dance, directed by Swagata Sengupta, chorus Kheyal Khushi, directed by Kabita Sarkar. Oct 18- music and dance. Oct 19- audio drama Magic If, directed by Brajesh Sengupta, drama Nabalak Sabalak, directed by Ratna Deb. Oct 20- dance and music, including dance item Chhandasai, directed by Sanghamitra Sangha Roy.
Food fiesta: Oct 17- begun bhaja, bhuna khichuri, bandhakopir tarkati, alur dum, tomato-amsatwa chutney, papad, payesh with kaju-kismis, nalen gurer ice cream. Oct 18- Gobindobhog chaler khichudi, beguni, labra, pineapple chutney, papad, norom paker sandesh, butter scotch ice cream. Oct 19- luchi, chholar dal, alur dum, basanti pulao, paneer butter masala, plastic chutney, papad, ghee boondi, vanilla ice cream. Oct 20- basmati rice, moog dal, jhuri alu bhaja, machcher matha diye muri ghonto, katla kalia, mutton kosha, aamer chuntey, papad, rasogolla, two-in-one ice cream. (Veg) veg cutlet, Radhaballavi, alur dum, chholar dal, fried rice, kadai paneer, aamer chutney, papad, rasogolla, two-in-one ice cream. Oct 21 (dinner)- veg chop, fried rice, butter chicken, paneer butter masala, papad, aamsatwa-khejurer chutney, papad, gulab jamun, butter scotch ice cream.
HA Block
Year: 42st
Budget: Rs 15 lakh
The look: the idol is traditional
Fun funda: October 16- variety shows by residents.
Food fiesta: Oct 19- khichuri, labra, beguni, mishti. Oct 20- rice, dal, chicken/ fish / paneer curry, mishti.
HB Block
Year: 42nd
Budget: Rs 24 lakh
The look: the pandal is inspired by the Dakshineswar Kali Temple, the idol is ekchala with daker saaj.
Fun funda: Oct 16- dance show directed by Manjila Gupta. Oct 17- audio drama Kreme Kreme Proshthan, directed by Partha Upadhyay. Oct 20- (morning)- sit-and-draw. Oct 31- Singer Manomay Bhattacharya to perform.
Food fiesta: Oct 18- khichuri, labra, kochuri, chholar dal, alur dum, paneer butter masala, pulao. Oct 19- khichuri, labra, beguni, chutney and payesh. Oct 20- rice, dal and chyachra, mutton curry; (veg)- jeera rice, mattar paneer, dhokar dalna.
IA Block
Year: 41st
Budget: Rs 18 lakh
The look: The idol showcases dokra art with the mandap interiors matching the style.
Fun funda: Oct 16- music and dance by tots of the block-based Little Millennium playschool, Rabindrasangeet by Soma Das Mitra followed by Shaktirupen Songosthita - Amar Durga performed by Mukti, an NGO for destitute children. Oct 17- audio drama by Sanyukta Saha and Sampa Bose, dance and recitation on the female characters from Tagore’s works, Robir Aloy Narira, directed by Pramadrija Chatterjee, recitation by Nandini Chatterjee and Sandipan Chakraborty. Comedy Pronoy Bibhrat staged by an all-women cast, under the direction of Nirmalya Chakraborty. Oct 18- Group dance Nrityer chhonde somoyer srot, directed by Tumpa Dutta, followed by music and dance. Oct 20- Badal Sircar’s play Solution X, directed by Samrat Basu.
Food fiesta: Oct 16 (evening)- luchi, chholar dal, kosha alur dom, darbesh. Oct 17- rice, shukto, moong daal, alu bhaja, chhanar dalna, sorse katla kalia, mixed veg, chutney, papad, mishti doi, rosogolla. Oct 18- rice, alu-phoolkopir kosha, chhanar dalna, chutney, mishti. Oct 19- khichuri, labra, beguni, dhokar dalna, chutney, papad, payesh. Oct 20- rice, machher matha diye chhyechra, dal, alu bhaja, mutton/ fish curry/ paneer butter masala, dhokar dalna, chutney, papad, mishti doi, pantua.
JC Block
Year: 28th
Budget: Rs 8.5 lakh
The look: The pandal is shaped like the natmandir of a palace and idol is traditional.
Fun funda: Oct 16- puja inauguration, followed by music, dance and recitation on every day. Oct 18- Guest singer Sudip Basu will perform on the theme of Uttam Kumar’s centenary. Oct 19- (afternoon) sit-and-draw; (evening) a chorus by the music group Sajhbati, directed by Shikha Chatterjee. Banani Mukhopadhyay’s Hatey Hatey Phol will be presented in audio drama format, directed by Bimal Konar. Oct 20- music, dance drama Bhanusingher Padabali, directed by Kuhu Banerjee.
Food fiesta: Oct 17- rice, alu bhaja, mixed dal, navaratna curry, chutney, papad, dessert. Oct 18- mixed dal, fish curry, paneer curry, chutney, papad, dessert. Oct 19- puri, kachori, begun bhaja, chholar dal, alur dum, paneer curry, chutney, dessert, ice cream. Oct 20- rice, paneer curry, mutton curry, mixed curry, ice cream. Oct 21 (dinner)- khichudi, pulao, begun bhaja, navaratna curry, dessert.
(Programme schedules are subject to last-minute changes)
AK Block
Year: 39th
Budget: Rs 35 lakh
The look: The theme of the puja — Anya Katha, Anner Katha — draws on the narrative poem Annadamangal Kabya, by Bharatchandra Ray Gunakar written in 1752-53, eulogising Devi Annapurna. The pandal by Purnendu Dey and his associates Rintu Konar and Madhusudan Das is a 32ft handi that symbolises the boon of a life of comfort for her children as granted to the boatswoman Ishwari paatni by the goddess.
You walk into the pandal over a big boat parked on a moat filled with water in which fish swim. A motif in relief representing waves in the sea of life run along the walls of a circular covered space. In it, 10 boats of various sizes bob up and down in the turbulent sea, with an oarsman on it. The boats are of iron frame, with clay coating. On the ceiling, a circular screen has a short mixed-media film playing that fuses animated illustration and live action, telling the story of Ishwari paatni, who is also a real-life mother of today. The walls inside retell the story, with the relevant verse quoted underneath the illustrations.
Fun funda: Oct 17- Song by Anisha Biswas, recitation by Suprangshu Ghosh, dance programme Alo chhayay Uttam, audio play, band music Ghare Baire. Oct 18 – Solo music, play Bharate Chai, directed by Soubhik Poddar. Audio play. Guest artist Parnabho Banerjee. Oct 19 – Dance by Moushumi Saha, songs by Kriyansho Pyne, audio play, musical show. Oct 20- Musical programme directed by Ranjana Sarkar, solo songs by Debu Roy, play Lathi, directed by Jayanta Ray.
Food fiesta: Oct 17- salad, gondhoraj lebu, luchi, alur dom, rice, daal, kumri, dhokar dalna, paneer rezala, mango chutney, papad, ice cream; Oct 18- rice, shukto, daal, potato chips, alu-phulkopir torkari, chutney, papad, lyangcha; Oct 19 – luchi, chholar daal, khichudi, beguni, labra, chutney, papad, malpoa; Oct 20 – rice, daal, French fry, machher matha diye chochchori, Parshey jhaal, Katla kalia (chhanar kalia, phulkopi as veg options), chutney, papad, doi.
BJ Block
Year: 43rd
Budget: Rs 1 crore
The look: It has been 1,000 years since the first recorded attack on the Somnath temple of Gujarat in 1026 and the 75th year since it was reopened after being most recently rebuilt. The temple therefore is the model for the pandal, though with a saffron coat of paint rather than the sandstone beige exterior of the original. With the temple being the first of the 12 jyotirlingas, the others feature as paintings all around the inner walls. The goddess is gorgeous with gold decor and has been crafted by block resident Pradip Rudrapal.
Fun funda: Oct 16- Matrirupena Sangsthita, a musical extravaganza, followed by dance by Jalachanda. A dhunuchi dance contest follows at 8.30pm. Oct 17- Conchshell blowing and ululation contests take place from 6pm. Niskriti, a band, will take the stage at 7.30pm.
Food fiesta: Oct 18- Khichuri, labra, beguni, chutney, papad, bonde, payesh. Oct 19- Luchi, chholar dal, alur dom, veg Afghani, pulao, paneer phulkopi motorshuti alu sabji, chutney, papad, rosogolla (Burdwan). Oct 20- rice, dal, finger chips, alu potol, mutton/ katla fish/ paneer masala, chutney, papad, ice cream.
AA Block
Year: 49th
Budget: Rs 10 lakh
The look: A traditional idol sits in a simple pandal
Fun funda: Oct 16- performance by students of Uttarayan, a school for special children. Miscellaneous items to follow. Oct 17-variety performances, along with a scripted music show by the ladies wing, conchshell-blowing and candle lighting contests and a fashion show. Oct 18- miscellaneous items and garba. Oct 20- quiz and antakshari. Plays on Oct 22 and 23.
Food fiesta: Oct 17- rice, moong dal, jhuri alu bhaja, alu posto, chhanar dalna, chutney, papad, rasogolla. Oct 18- prasadi pulao, Kashmiri alur dum, paneer curry, veg chop, chutney, papad, mishti. Oct 19- luchi, chholar dal, alur dom, mochar chop, chutney, papad, bonde. Oct 20- khichuri, labra, beguni, chutney, papad, payesh.
AB Block
Year: 48th
Budget: Rs 18 lakh
The look: Santiniketan’s Upasana Griha has been replicated, including colourful stained glass panels on white backgrounds. The idol is traditional.
Fun funda: Variety programmes by residents on October 16 and October 22.
Food fiesta: Oct 17- khichuri, beguni, panchmisheli torkari, chutney, papad, payesh. Oct 18- luchi, alur dom, dhokar dalna, chutney, papad, laddu. Oct 19- Basanti pulao, alur pakora, navratna korma, chutney, papad, gulab jamun. Oct 20- fried rice, chilli paneer, gravy veg ball, chutney, papad, mishti.
AC Block
Year: 49th
Budget: Rs 9 lakh
The look: The traditional idol has been sculpted by Dulal Pal.
Fun funda: Oct 16- a children’s drama on how the deities chose their vahanas, directed by Sriya Chakrabarti. Oct 17- Phire Dekha, a segment on classic Bengali songs, directed by Sananda Bhowmik. Oct 18- A chorus of Uttam Kumar songs, directed by Saibal Sen. Oct 19- dance drama Chitrangada, directed by Mousumi Sen. Oct 20- Comedy Saat Phande Bandha about two bachelors searching for wives, directed by Tathagata Goswami.
Food fiesta: Oct 17- khichuri bhog will be sent to homes. Oct 18- rice, shukto, dal, alu bhaja, alu phulkopi, doi potol, chutney, papad, mishti. Oct 19- khichuri, luchi, labra, alur dom ,beguni, chutney, papad, payesh. Oct 20- pulao, dhokar dalna, veg/ mocha chop, shahi paneer/ chhanar kofta, chutney, papad, mishti.
AD Block
Year: 48th
Budget: Rs 25 lakh
The look: The theme is gaala (lac) dolls, an endangered folk art of Bengal.
Artistes Amit-Arindam have created real gaala dolls of about 1ft height of various deities, as well as 10ft replicas using fibre, cloth, bamboo etc. one such is a Ravana standing at the entrance. The typical colour scheme of gaala dolls – red, black, and white – is maintained.
Fun funda: Oct 16- agomoni songs directed by Sutapa Ganguly, more music, dance and a fashion show, directed by Debasree Chakraborty. Oct 17- dance, music and a scripted musical piece based on Rabindrasangeet, directed by Debjani Sarkar. October 18- play titled Garad. Oct 20- recitation and then guest singer Subhrakanti Chatterje will present songs by Manna De, Shyamal Mitra etc.
Food fiesta: Oct 18- fried rice, chholar dal, finger chips, chhanar kofta, chutney, papad, mishti. Oct 19- luchi, khichuri, beguni, labra, alur dum, chutney, papad, mishti.
AE (Part 1)
Year: 43rd
Budget: Rs 14.5 lakh
The look: A traditional daker saaj idol is adorned in a simple pandal
Fun funda: Oct 16- music, dance, ladies’ tribute to Uttam Kumar, and two audio plays. Oct 17- music, dance, recitation and play Chhere De Ma Kende Banchi, directed by Anindya Sen. Oct 18- music, dance, recitation and dance drama Bhanusingher Padabali by ladies. Oct 19- guest singers to take stage. Oct 20- music performance Khapchhara.
Food fiesta: Oct 18- khichuri, beguni, alur dom, labra, aamshwatta-khujurer chutney, papad, payesh, bonde. Oct 19- radhaballavi, alur dum, ghee-er amriti. Oct 20- veg chop, pulao, dhokar dalna, chhanar kalia, pineapple chutney, papad, semui payesh, darbesh. Nov 1- fried rice, fish finger, hot garlic chicken.
AG Block
Year: 40th
Budget: Rs 10 lakh
The look: The pandal by Arka-Sreyoshi is a tribute to two of Bengal’s proud creations — sandesh and jamdani. Shaped like a hut, it uses a predominantly earthy palette of mud greys. The walls depict the journey of sandesh, from moiras transforming chhana into sweets to shops selling them and people relishing the delicacy. Dressed like modest village folk, the idols are draped in jamdani.
Fun funda: Oct 24- residents will perform a variety of shows, including a kids’ play Rajar Ashuk, directed by Sreela Kundu, and another play by adults, directed by Pinaki Mukherjee.
Food fiesta: Oct 18- khichuri, beguni, labra, chutney, papad, rasogolla. Oct 19- luchi, Kashmiri alur dum, fried rice, dhokar dalna, chutney, papad, sandesh (two pieces). Oct 20- kachuri, alu phulkopir tarkari, basanti pulao, mutton kosha/ doi katla/ chhanar kofta, chutney, papad, golab jam.
AH Block
Year: 43rd
Budget: Rs 22 lakh
The look: The message of this puja is on saving the environment. A giant eagle spans the height of the pandal, with its right side dry and dying, while the left is lush green, with trees and birds. Inside, artist Jugal Jana has decorated the pandal with white and pink flowers, green foliage, birds and nests.
Fun funda: Oct 16- variety shows, including a chorus directed by Sangeeta Dey. Oct 17- chorus directed by Sumita Chatterjee, ladies’ audio drama Bou Kotha Kow directed by Sumana Bhattacharya. Oct 18- audio drama Swargiyo Prem directed by Sumana Bhattacharya. Oct 19- miscellaneous items by residents. Oct 20- guest artiste Pokhraj Chakraborty to present music
Food fiesta: Oct 18- luchi, begun bhaja, chholar dal, veg chop, dhokar dalna, fried rice, paneer butter masala, chutney, papad, gulab jamun. Oct 19- (bhog packet to be sent home) Dehradun rice pulao, five kinds of bhaja, alur dum, chutney, payesh, dorbesh. Oct 20- khichuri, beguni, labra, alur dom, rasogolla, chutney, papad. Oct 21- rice, dal, alu potol diye chingri, khasir mangsho, rasogolla, ice cream.
AJ Block
Year: 42nd
Budget: Rs 22 lakh
The look: The pandal is upward sloping, inspired by the architecture of south Indian temples and the Naba Kumar Pal idol is traditional.
Fun funda: Oct 16- Uttam Kumar tribute and dance Harir Katha by Natyam Angikam. Oct 17- (6.30am) Chandipath by Narayan Rakshit; (evening) Asha Bhosle clone guest singer Mita Chatterjee will take stage. Oct 18- audio drama Ghata Phanki. Oct 19- drama Kalchakra and show by Bangla band Ghore Baire. Oct 20- a scripted musical piece Meyebela, and performance by block-based children’s band Ho Jo Bo Ro Lo. Besides these, there will miscellaneous items daily.
Food fiesta: Oct 17- peas pulao, mixed vegetables, dhokar dalna, chutney, papad. Oct 18- rice, shukto, dal, jhuri alu bhaja, chhana ball curry, khejur aamshatwa chutney, papad, payesh. Oct 19- khichuri, labra, beguni, alur dum, chutney, papad, rajbhog. Oct 20- veg biryani, fish/ veg chop, chicken masala/ shahi paneer, chutney, papad, gulab jamun.
AL Block
Year: 25th
Budget: Rs 20 lakh
The look: The pandal is a replica of the Kedarnath temple and the sculptor Sunayan Pal of Kumotuli has created the traditional idol.
Fun funda: Oct 16- mainly children’s performances, including a dance drama Hinghshute Doitya, directed by Debalina Samanata, and an audio drama. Oct 17- (morning) garland-making contest and memory game; (evening) variety shows by children and resident-youths’ band Overdrive to take stage. Ladies will also stage Bimal Bandapadhyay’s Gou Gaabau Gaabah, directed by Nita Samanta. Oct 18- devotional and modern songs by residents and show by guest singer Nupurchhanda. Oct 19- kids and youths to present music, dance, recitation. Satabdi Ghosh will direct a scripted musical piece, Vande Mataram. Oct 20- an all-Bengal open-quiz, the Krishnarpita Chakraborty Memorial Trophy, will be hosted at 2pm on the theme of Uttam Kumar. Spot registrations will be accepted; (evening)- kids will stage Sukumar Ray’s Abak Jalpan, directed by Somparna Dasgupta and resident magician Subir Dhar will entertain with his team. Oct 21- (morning) conchshell-blowing and candle-lighting contests. Oct 22- games like passing-the-pillow and prize of contests.
Food fiesta: Oct 18- khichuri, labra, alu pakora, chutney, papad, bonde. Oct 19- Radhaballavi, Kashmiri alur dum, chholar dal, basanti pulao, Navaratan korma, chutney, papad, darbesh. Oct 20- basmati rice, sukto, dal, alu bhaja, katla kalia, chutney, papad, sandesh. Oct 21- basmati rice, dal, alu bhaja, chhyachra, mutton, chutney, papad, rasogolla.
BA Block
Year: 47th
Budget: Rs 18 lakh
The look: The idol will be traditional
Fun funda: Oct 17- residents will host an anadamela, selling home-made foodstuff in the evening. Oct 19- dhunuchi and conchshell-blowing contests. Oct 20- dandiya dance. Oct 22- kuchipudi dance, music, and a retro themed dance named Dil Dhadakne Do, directed by Sayani Hore. Oct 23- music, dance, audio drama Madhureno Samapoyet directed by Champak Ghosh, play Bhushundir Mathey directed by Satarupa Hore. Resident Ankur Majumdar has also written and directed a theatre sequel to the Bhanu Banerjee comedy and named it Jamalaya Jibanta Manush: Season 2 Case Neben Na Please. Oct 24- Musical and dance tribute to Uttam Kumar and plays Abulish, directed by Subrata Hore, and audio drama Proxy, directed by Uma Das.
Food fiesta: Oct 17- rice, shukto, moong dal, jhuri alu bhaja, kofta, mixed veg, chutney, papad, mishti. Oct 18- fried rice, chholar dal, veg kofta, chutney, papad, mishti. Oct 19- luchi, begun bhaja, chholar dal, basanti pulao, chhanar kofta, chutney, papad, mishti. Oct 20- khichuri, beguni, bandhakopir tarkari, labra, chutney, papad, payesh. Oct 22 (dinner) rumali roti, dal makhani, gondhoraj chicken kebab, mutton biryani, chicken chaap, chutney, papad, mishti, ice cream. Vegetarians will be served pulao, mochar chop, phulkorpir tarkari and chhanar kofta instead of the non-vegetarian items.
BB Block
Year: 54rd
Budget: Rs 7 lakh
The look: The idol is traditional
Fun funda: Oct 18 – a collage of Sukumar Ray’s works, directed by Ruby Ganguly. Oct 23- Ashok Mukhopadhyay’s audio drama Hathey Huricane will be directed by Arijit Roy. Residents will also stage a tribute to Uttam Kumar.
Food fiesta: Oct 18- pulao, alur dom, potoler dorma, chutney, papad, semui payesh, rosgolla. Oct 19- Radhaballavi, Kashmiri alur dom, chholar dal narkel diye, veg chop, amsatwa khejur chutney, papad, sujir payesh, gulab jamun. Oct 20- khichuri, labra, beguni, jolpai chutney, papad, chaler payesh, bonde.
BD Block
Year: 48th
Budget: Rs 15 lakh
The look: Artiste Hirak Das has depicted the lives of boatmen. At the entrance is a huge boat, standing vertically and the oark has been done up using nets, sails and oars. The idol is traditional.
Fun funda: Oct 16- music, dance, Rabindrasangeet. Oct 17- dance drama Shyama directed by Mousumi Sen. Oct 18- ladies’ chorus, directed by Bipasa Mitra. Oct 19- a guest singer to perform. Oct 20- a collection of micro plays directed by Soumyabrata Basu
Food fiesta: Oct 18- khichuri, labra, phulkopir tarkari, chutney, papad, mishti. Oct 19- luchi, chholar dal, dum pulao, paneer kofta, chutney, papad, mishti. Oct 20- rice, dal, jhuri alu bhaja, chhyachra, katla kalia, mutton curry, chutney, papad, ice cream.
BE (East)
Year: 47th
Budget: Rs 15 lakh
The look: The theme is music composer Salil Chowdhury, whose centenary year it is. When walking into the pandal from the Kwality side, visitors cross four pillars of about 20ft height. Each pillar is dedicated to one of the four active decades of Chowdhury’s career – the 1940s, 50s, 60s and 70s – and will play his biggest hits from that era. The pandal itself has the composer’s pictures, film posters, musical notations, records etc.
Fun funda: Oct 16- (morning) drawing competition; (evening)- music, dance and audio drama Calling Bell. At around 10pm, the Uttam-Suchitra classic Saptapadi will be screened. October 17- Ladies to present musical tributes to Salil Chowdhury and Asha Bhosle. Uttam Kumar-Tanuja’s Deya Neya will be staged at night. Oct 19- There will be a night show of Uttam Kumar’s Chowringhee. Oct 20- Amol Palekar’s 1976 film Chhoti si Baat to be screened at 10pm. October 21- competitions like phuchka and rasogolla eating, conchshell-blowing, dhak playing and dhunuchi dancing. At night the Utpal Dutt-Amol Palekar hit Golmal will be screened.
Food fiesta: Oct 17- khichuri, labra, beguni/ alu pakora, tomato-khejur chutney, papad. Oct 18- basmati rice, shukto, sona moog dal motorshuti diye, alu posto, daal bora, aamsatwo chutney, papad. Oct 19- luchi/ Radhaballavi, chholar dal narkel kishmish diye, begun basanti, veg chop, phulkopi roast, khejur-aamshwatto chutney, papad. Ashtami bhog of pulao, alur dom, and payesh will be home delivered to residents. Oct 20- basmati rice, moog dal, machher matha diye chhyachra, alu bhaja, katla kalia, chutney, papad. Veg options- veg chhyachra, chhanar dalna.
“Malsa pots” comprising khichuri, labra and chutney will be offered to anyone who comes forward on Oct 17, 18, 19.
BE (West)
Year: 43rd
Budget: Rs 10 lakh
The look: The pandal is shaped like a temple and the idol is sculpted by Padmashri awardee Sanatan Rudra Pal
Fun funda: Oct 16- Musical collage Dui Haate Kaler Mandira, directed by Debika Bhattacharya. Oct 17- A musical piece Tomar Majhe Dekhi Amar Aponare, presented by the block’s ladies club. Oct 18- Guest group Kavyashruti to present a collage of song, dance, recitation. Oct 19- Sa Re Ga Ma Pa artiste Madhuparna Ganguly to take stage. Oct 20- music by guest artiste Samstab Sen. Oct 24 (Vijaya Sammelani)- Music by guest artistes Sudeshna Poddar and Prosenjit Chakraborty
Food fiesta: Oct 17- khichuri, labra, chutney, papad. Oct 18- khichuri, sabji, chutney, papad. Oct 19- luchi, alur dum, chholar dal, chutney, papad, mishti. Oct 20- basanti pulao, paneer navartna, alu phulkopi motorshuti rosha, chutney, papad, mishti. Vijaya sammelani Oct 24 (dinner) - basmati rice, bhaja moog dal, jhuri alu bhaja, bhetki fry, mutton curry, chutney, papad, mishti.
BF Block
Year: 48th
Budget: Rs 14 lakh
The look: The idol is traditional in daker saaj and the pandal is a zamindar house
Fun funda: Besides a variety of items, the schedule has been curated to feature shows honouring great personalities whose birth centenaries it is. Oct 16- inauguration and bodhon music and dance, directed by Ananya Chakraborty. Oct 17- a scripted musical piece on the songs used in Tagore’s plays. Also, a musical tribute to Salil Chowdhury. Oct 18- solo items and then a show named Kotha o Kobita where Subhasish Mondal and Mahua Bose will present Sukanta Bhattacharya’s poetry and Salil Chowdhury’s songs. Shanoli Majumder will then direct a dance tribute to Uttam Kumar. Oct 19- drama on Tagore’s Khudito Pashan, directed by Subhrojyoti Bandophadhyay. Oct 20- guest drama group Spandan will present Samudra Guha’s Ritwik Ek Nakshatrer Naam, on the life of filmmaker Ritwik Ghatak.
Food fiesta: Oct 18- khichuri, beguni, labra, chutney, papad, rosogolla. Oct 19- luchi, chholar dal, alur dom, veg chop, chutney, papad, bonde. Oct 20- dehradun chaler pulao, dhokar dalna, alur dom, kumro bhaja, doi katla, chutney, papad, golab jamun. Oct 21 lunch- rice, shukto, macher matha diye dal, katka kalia, chutney, papad, rasgolla.
BG Block
Year: 42nd
Budget: Rs 12 lakh
The look: The theme is Vande Mataram, with an image of Bharat Mata atop the pandal. Inside, panels depict the history of the song, it’s poet Bankim Chandra Chattopadhyay, the novel it was written for – Anandamath - and also images of freedom fighters.
Fun funda: October 16- music and dance show Durga Durgotiharini. Oct 17- variety programmes. Oct 19- instrumental music, audio drama Santaaner Sukh directed by Pranab Bandopahdyay, Bhanushinger Padabali, directed by Gouri Ghosh and Kuheli Guin, and dhunuchi dance. Oct 20- dance, audio drama, play Samarpan directed by Prasenjit Sanyal. Oct 22- audio drama Bari o Sasurmoshai directed by Gopa Roy.
Food fiesta: Oct 17- khichuri, beguni, labra, alu phulkopi kosha, chutney, papad, amriti, pan masala. Oct 18- rice with gaoa ghee, alu bhaja, shukto, dal with vegetables, alu posto, begun bhaja, potol alu rosha, amra chutney, papad, rasgolla, pan masala. Oct 19- luchi, alur dom, naan puri, channa masala, chutney, papad, kheer with malpoa, pan masala. Oct 20- Basanti pulao, paneer cutlet, potoler dorma, chhanar kofta, dhoka, chutney, papad, Sitabhog, pan masala. Oct 21- rice, dal, jhuri alu bhaja, paneer pasinda, chhanar kalia, phulkopir roast, stuffed capsicum, chutney, papad, Kamala bhog, ice cream, pan masala.
BH Block
Year: 42rd
Budget: Rs 12 lakh
The look: Traditional pandal decorated with gamchhas and saris
Fun funda: Oct 16- kids will perform, including the play Tuntunir Golpo directed by Na0ndita Banerjee. A school for the needy, run by ladies of the block, will present a show, as will a guest troupe of special children. Oct 17- kids will present a dance medley of Bengali songs, and Sutapa Dutta and Madhurima Banerjee will direct a musical show Sharat Akashey Surer Ramdhenu. Oct 18- teenage girls will present a dance on the theme on viraha (separation), block-based drama group Kuthaar will present Anish Deb’s Anindya Sundarer Aparamrityu. Oct 19- teens will dance to a mash up of trending Hindi songs and Brinda Mukherjee will directed a self-written piece on Uttam Kumar and Suchitra Sen named Tobe Kemon Hoto Bolo Toh. Kumar Sanu clone Som Sanu will then take stage. Oct 20- tots will present a self-choreographed dance on hip hop and K-pop music. Guest band Souls India band will be the finale.
Food fiesta: Oct 17- khichuri, labra, begun bhaja, chutney, papad, mishti. Oct 18- fried rice, dhokar dalna, tarkari, chutney, papad, mishti. Oct 19- luchi, alur dom, chholar dal, chutney, papad, bonde. Oct 20- rice, fish fry/ paneer pasinda, mutton curry/ paneer curry, chutney, papad, mishti
BK Block
Year: 40th
Budget: Rs 18 lakh
The look: The theme is Egypt and so the pandal is shaped like a pyramid. Theme maker Prabir Saha has ensured the walls inside and out have hieroglyphics as well as typical ancient Egyptian art. The idols too are dressed in Egyptian style and headgears. Durga’s lion is reminiscent of the sphinx. A fair is on in the park till October 25 too.
Fun funda: Oct 16- Miscellaneous items by residents. Oct 17- tribute to Akashvani Kolkata (All India Radio), Uttam Kumar and Bhupen Hazarika, all of whom celebrate their centenary year, along with recently departed Asha Bhosle. October 18- children’s shows. Oct 19- students of a school for the specially-abled will perform. Oct 20 (10am)- a celebrity adda session will be moderated by Chandrasekhar Bag. In attendance will be former athlete Jyotirmoyee Sikdar, Padmashri awardee scientist Narayan Chakraborty, Justice (retd) Sambuddha Chakraborty, academic Rajagopal Dhar Chakraborty, poet Subho Dasgupta, folk singer Debapriya Biswas and others; (evening) performance by Esha Goswami’s dance troupe
Food fiesta: Oct 18- khichuri, labra, kumro bhaja, chutney, papad, mishti. Oct 19- luchi chholar dal, alur dom, chutney, papad, mishti. Oct 20- rice, dal, alu bhaja fish curry, mutton curry, chutney, papad, mishti/ ice cream. Oct 21- mutton/ veg biryani, chicken chaap/ paneer curry, ice cream.
BL Block
Year: 40th
Budget: Rs 14 lakh
The look: the pandal is decorated with items intrinsic to Bengali culture, like hath pakha, kulo etc. It has been designed by resident Sayan Kundu
Fun funda: Oct 16- music, dance and play Sadanander Saath Kahon directed by Arati Banik. Guest singer Priyanto Chatterjee will sing mainly Bengali songs of the golden era. October 17- Bhabna dance troupe to perform. There will be more music, dance, recitation by residents till Oct 20.
Food fiesta: Oct 19- Radhaballavi, chholar dal narkel diye, navratna korma, chhanar kofta curry, aamshwatta kaju kismiser chutney, papad, rasgolla, pan masala. Oct 20- basmati rice, dudh shukto, moong monohar dal, jhuri alu bhaja with peanuts, katla kalia/ paneer butter masala, shorshe pabda/ phulkopir roast, green mango chutney, moong papad, kamala bhog, pan masala.
CA Block
Year: 48th
Budget: Rs 13 lakh
The look: The theme is the evolution of the Durga idol. The outer walls feature large paintings depicting different eras: the first shows a family from earlier times gathered around a radio to listen to the Mahalaya broadcast; the next shows a young Bengali woman working in Bangalore whose mother calls to remind her to tune in to Mahalaya; another shows a youth listening to it on YouTube instead of the radios.
Artist Subrata Biswas has created a clock set at almost 12 o’clock, symbolising that we are now on the threshold of a new day. Around it are images of Durga idols, ranging from traditional older forms to AI-generated ones. The idol itself has a serene look and around the mandap are models showing the idols in various stages of creation, along with large images of the idol being sculpted, transported etc.
Food fiesta: Oct 18- khichuri, labra, begun and another bhaja, chutney, papad, mishti. Oct 19- luchi, dhokar dalna, alur dom, chholar dal, chutney, papad, payesh. Oct 20- rice, dal, bhaja, alu potol, mutton/ veg curry, chutney, papad, mishti.
CB Block
Year: 47th
Budget: Rs 12 lakh
The look: the idol will be traditional ekchala in daker saaj
Fun funda: Oct 16- music, dance and two audio plays Kolkatar Kopalkundala by Amit Chakraborty and Soma Sar, and Computerised Marriage by Amrita Ghosh and Kaushik Basu. Block-based Anurekha Ghosh Dance Acedemy to present The Gaze of Shakti- Trinayani. Oct 17- sitar-and-vocal presentation by Nibedita and Ananya Dutta, and children’s variety show Harekrakamba. Ladies will stage the play Kalaha Keertan and there will be a dance drama Maa Ganga- Srishti Theke Chirantan. Oct 18- Tridip Dance Academy will present Juge Juge Hote Chai Naari, a musical narrative by ladies on Joler Taaney Matir Gaan, song and recitation collage Ardhek Aakash Tumi Nari, music and men’s drama Bharate Hoite Sabdhaan. Oct 19- dance, music, audio drama on Humayun Ahmed’s Gunin and guest singer Anubhab Sengupta. Oct 20- music by guest artistes. Oct 21 evening- dhunuchi dance and open stage for all
Food fiesta: Oct 18- khichudi, labra, alu bhaja, chutney, payesh. Octr 19- luchi, chholar dal, begun bhaja, peas pulao, malai kofta, chutney, papad, malpua. Oct 20- rice, masala moong dal, finger chips, baby corn mixed vegetable, mutton/fish/ paneer curry, chutney, papad, mishti. Oct 21- peas kochuri, alur dum, basanti peas pulao, veg Manchurian, dhokar dalna, veg cutlet, chutney, papad, mishti, kulfi, dahi vada.
BL Block puja, CJ Block, DA Block, CK-CL Block
CD Block
Year: 50th
Budget: Rs 10 lakh
The look: In its golden jubilee year, the puja’s theme is “phire dekha”, where it revisits how CD Block puja was celebrated for the first time, 50 years ago. The traditional idol will be placed inside the community hall.
Fun funda: Oct 16- inauguration by members of the puja’s founding committee. Oct 18- (morning) sit-and-draw; (evening) competitions such as dhak-playing, conchshell blowing, lamp lighting and dhunuchi dance. There will also be a photography competition on the theme of scenery/ animal/ bird too. Oct 19- music, audio drama Uportola Nichertala, tribute to Asha Bhosle by block-based Mrinalini Dance Academy, and musical quiz. Oct 20- dance, music by resident Giti Gupta and family and residents’ group Surlohori, kids’ recitation collage Swapan Dola Kheya Khola, directed by Rubai Maity, residents’ play Dekh Kemon Moja and musical tribute to Uttam Kumar by guest artist Debashis Goldar.
Food fiesta: Oct 18- khichuri, labra, beguni, chutney, papad and gulab jamun. Oct 19- luchi, chholar dal, alur dum, chutney, papad and simayi payesh. October 20- Basanti pulao, dhokar dalna, veg chop, chhanar kofta, chutney, papad and Gobindobhog chaler payesh
CE Block
Year: 47th
Budget: Rs 9 lakh
The look: Traditional idol.
Fun funda: Oct 16- kids’ chorus Elo oi Chandika, and Mahishasuramardini directed by Arpita Roy. Oct 17- musical tribute to Uttam Kumar by guest artiste Debashish Golder, Sharad Prabha dance directed by Suman Bari. Oct 18- music, recitation, audio drama and Shatarupe Mahanayak chorus, directed by Sanjukta Das. Oct 19 and 20- miscellaneous items by residents.
Food fiesta: Oct 17- khichuri, labra, beguni, tomato khejurer chutney, papad, bonde, mishti doi. Oct 18- basmati rice, veg chop (two), moog dal, jhuri alu bhaja, potoler dorma, navaratna korma, pineapple chutney, papad, rossogolla. Oct 19- luchi, chholar dal, Bengali pulao, dhokar dalna, butter paneer, plastic chutney, papad, payesh. Oct 20- basmati pulao, paneer pasinda, phulkopir roast, chhanar kofta curry, aam chutney, papad, ice cream.
CF Block
Year: 48th
Budget: Rs 24 lakh
The look: the pandal is shaped like a natmandir and the idol is traditional
Fun funda: Oct 17- agomoni music, poetry by invited artiste Shantanu Bhattacharya, musical tribute to Uttam Kumar, and a dance celebrating the states of India, presented by block-based group Nrityakalpa. Oct 18- music, and the play Indur Kal, directed by Arup Ghosh, based on Agatha Christie’s Mousetrap. Oct 20- musical event Tinti Tarar Aloy and musical tribute to Asha Bhosle. Finally block-based Sapphire Creation Dance Academy would present Natuner Abhisher, an ode to Bengal renaissance.
Food fiesta: Oct 18- khichuri, beguni, labra, tomato-khejur-aamshatwa chutney, papad, payesh. Oct 19- luchi/ peas pulao, chholar dal, Kashmiri alur dum, chhanar kofta curry, plastic chutney, papad, bonde. Oct 20- veg chop, dum pulao, butter paneer, dhokar dalna, pineapple chutney, papad, kalo jam.
CG Block
Year: 42nd
Budget: Rs 9.5 lakh
The look: The pandal resembles a temple built out of golden-coloured bamboo sticks. It is decorated with warli art on earthen plates
Fun funda: Oct 16- (morning) sit-and-draw; (evening) cultural programme to begin with Rabindrasangeet by an autistic resident Debapam Benerjee. A baithaki adda, moderated by Sudeshna Sarkar Basak, will see residents of various professions sharing notes. Oct 17- Resident Aparna Chanda and daughter Anjana Roy Chaudhury will present a recitation and music collage, Sukumar Ray’s story Petuk will be presented as a play under the direction of Arunima Dutta. There will be guitar recital and a piece on Anjan Dutt, where Subhojit Basak will sing his songs and Sudeshna Sarkar Basak will weave in the narrative. Oct 18- musical items, including guitar and vocals by father-daughter duo Jogendra Kumar and Udita Behani. Guest singer Bhaskar Pal will present music. Oct 19- dance and drama on Ashapurna Debi’s Patni o Preyoshi, staged by Gobordanga Shilpayan. Oct 20- dance, followed by a show called Dao Phire Shei Chhelebela. Presented by the ladies forum, this has been written and will be recited by Ananya Nag and the music will be directly by Tania Nandy. There will also be dance by guest troupe Pratibha Nritya Niketan. Oct 21- music, prize distribution and felicitation of those who worked for the puja.
Food fiesta: Oct 17- basmati rice, shukto, beguni, jhuri alu bhaja, moong dal, kofta curry, chutney, papad, rasgolla. October 18- Gobindobhog chaaler khichuri, pumpkin batter fry, beguni, labra, chutney, papad, payesh. Oct 19- Radhaballavi, Kashmiri masala alur dum, veg chop, chholar dal, chutney, papad, suji halwa. Oct 20- green peas kachori, chhana paneer, stuffed cabbage wrap, pulao, dhokar dalna, chutney, papad, gulab jamun. Oct 21 (dinner)- chicken/ mutton/ veg biriyani, fish fry/ paneer pasinda, raita, ice cream
CJ Block
Year: 41st
Budget: Rs 9 lakh
The look: The pandal is a replica of a mansion with bright green latticed windows, red pillars and white balconies in a yellow building.
Fun funda: Oct 16- Teens will stage Anindya Mitra’s story Kailash ey Kelenkari, that has been adapted and directed by Sangita Saha. The comedy is about Durga seeking money from her husband and children to give their staff puja bonus. There will also be music, audio drama Mushkil Aasan, and Sonali Ghosh will direct a tribute to Uttam Kumar with residents, including children, lip syncing to his songs that will play in the big screen behind. Oct 17- music, recitation, and the group Katha o Kabita, led by Anindita Basu, will recite. Ladies will also stage Bishunpriya Bridhasram. October 18- music, dance, and a recitation show Alor Satadal directed by Susmita Mukherjee. Sanjukta Das will direct a scripted musical show on Uttam Kumar. Oct 19- music, dance, and a show on Chandrabindoo songs by Shudhaswatta Ganguly and his group. Oct 20- music, dance, Banani Mukhopadhyay’s audio drama Bhoyonkari, Shyamakanta Das’s play Parasmani, directed by Tapas Das. Oct 21- an Uttam Kumar film Chhadmabeshi will be screened after dinner.
Food fiesta: Oct 17- rice, dal, jhuri alu bhaja, shukto, dhoka, chutney, papad and sweets. Oct 18- peas pulao, dal fry, mixed vegetables, paneer pasanda, alu-phulkopir tarkari, chutney, papad and sweets. Oct 19- khichuri, begun bhaja/ beguni, labra, koraishutir kochuri, shahi alur dom, chutney, papad, sweets and rice payesh. Oct 20- basanti pulao, veg chop, chhanar kalia, alur torkari, chutney, papad and Sitabhog. Oct 21– bekti fry, mutton biryani, chicken chaap/ doi katla, papad, sweets and ice cream. (Veg) baby naan, chhana paneer, Kashmiri/ seasonal pulao, soya chaap, paneer rezala, chutney, papad, sweets
CK-CL Block
Year: 40th
Budget: Rs 22 lakh
The look: the pandal reflects tribal life and motifs and the idol is traditional.
Fun funda: Oct 16- Solo items by children and song-dance-recitation by students of the block-based activity centre Surekha Art School. The next day will have variety shows too. Oct 18- guest troupe Mayur Lalit Dance Academy will perform Raas Lila and residents will present an Asha Bhosle-themed fashion show, directed by Mousumi Dutta. Oct 19- ladies drama Shei Timire, audio drama Kolkatar Kapalkundala, directed by Sonali Sen, and dhunuchi dance for all. Oct 20- open-to-all antakshari, followed by garba and dandia dance. Oct 21- open mic
Food fiesta: Oct 18- rice, shukto, moog mohan dal, potato chips, paneer butter masala, chutney, papad, chhanar malpoa. Oct 19- luchi, chholar dal, khichuri, beguni, labra, chutney, papad, payesh. Oct 20- veg chop, salad, white veg pulao, Kashmiri alur dum, chilli paneer, chutney, papad, mihidana. Oct 21 (dinner)- egg devil, salad, mutton biriyani, chicken chap, chutney, papad, gulab jamun (one piece). (Veg) dahi vada, veg cutlet, Radhaballavi, chholar dal, Kashmiri alur dum, pulao, kadai paneer, chutney, papad, gulab jamun
DA Block
Year: 46th
Budget: Rs 13 lakh
The look: the theme is the Adiyogi Shiva sculpture of Coimbatore and so a replica is placed outside the red and white pandal. Block president Soumyadeep (Raja) Bhattacharya has himself painted Durga and related motifs on 10x8ft canvases inside.
Fun funda: Oct 16- agomoni music and dance. Oct 17- modern music by the band Mahakash; block-based dance school Nrityam will then present dance drama Bonhisikha. Directed by Puloma Sen, it will depict women in various stages of life, show their sacrifices and how they can regain control of their lives. Finally Shirin Roychowhdury will direct a music and dance show named Spectrum. Oct 18- music, an audio drama, and performance by guest band Anandadhwani. Oct 19- talent show DA Block’s Got Talent, quiz and fashion show on the theme of different states. Participants will choose a state and come dressed in its native costume, speak the language or sing a native song etc. Oct 20- music, audio drama Arogyo Barta, and a show directed by Nandini Sen on the flavour of Calcutta. A tourist will be shown coming to town to enjoy its sights, sounds and culture.
Food fiesta: Oct 18- khichuri, labra, beguni, chutney, papad, mishti. Oct 19- luchi, chholar dal, begun bhaja, basmati rice, moong dal, jhuri alu bhaja, potoler dorma, dhokar dalna, chutney, payesh, Hajmola. Oct 20- peas kachori, paneer chana masala, shahi pulao, Kashmiri alu dum, malai kofta, chutney, masala papad, rajbhog, mouth freshener.