Enjoying Durga Puja in Kolkata does not always mean braving the crowds at pandals. While pandal-hopping remains an integral part of the revelries, not everyone plans their Puja according to the pandal route maps.
Watch a play instead of swimming through the crowds
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For a theatre outing, head to the Academy of Fine Arts to watch plays like Macbeth 2.0, directed by Koushik Sen (on October 18), or Aparajito’s Raktakarabi (on October 20). For non-Bengali plays, there is A Woman Alone running at the Cave Studio from October 17 to 24. The venue also lists Main Madhubala and Main Tainu Phir Milangi, both playing on October 17.
Why miss out on films?
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A long slate of films is lined up for this Durga Puja, including Bengali titles like DeSu7, Bohurupi: The Golden Daku, The Eken: Kerala-e Kurukshetra, and Emperor vs Sarat Chandra.
For those interested in non-Bengali films, Hollywood releases include Street Fighter and Whalefall. Other Hindi and South Indian releases lined up for the festive period include Nayyi Navelli, Jailer 2, Ranabaali, Raftaar, and Vishwambhara.
For the heritage and culture nerds
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The heritage and cultural space in Kolkata does not fade away just because of the grandeur of the Puja days. For a quiet outing, the Indian Museum (closed on Mondays) and the new Museum of Word (closed on Mondays, Ashtami and Dusshera) serve as the perfect spaces to discover some ancient relics and fill your knowledge pots for those who are interested.
The compulsory 'pet-puja'
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Even for those who do not want to step out of their homes, an endless array of dishes each day of the Puja is non-negotiable. Whether you order in or dine out, from Italian to African, a whole world of cuisines awaits in the city. If you are a loyal Bengali-food enthusiast, plan a spread of your favourites, from breakfast to dessert.
The stay-at-home 'lyadh'
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The Puja holidays are also a chance to rest after months of work. Lyadh is a vital part of Bengali culture, be it bhaat-ghum or a morning that starts at noon. A sleepover with friends or family can be a Puja plan in itself, with good food and plenty of adda.