Inscribed by UNESCO in 2021 as part of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity, Durga Puja is far more than a mere festival; it is a vibrant expression of community, culture, and creativity that resonates deeply with the Bengali diaspora and beyond. For a few nights each autumn, Kolkata and various regions in West Bengal transform into a spectacular open-air gallery where local communities erect stunning temporary temples, known as pandals, artisans from Kumartoli sculpt the goddess from river clay, and the rhythmic beats of dhaakis fill the air, creating a joyful atmosphere for millions to explore.
This year’s festivities came to a close on Thursday, but the impact of Durga Puja extends far beyond the final day of celebration. What may appear to be a grand spectacle is, in fact, a dynamic community initiative: local clubs mobilizing funds, families coming together to volunteer, craftspeople collaborating, and entire local economies flourishing around food, art, and music. Families meticulously plan their “pandal-hopping” routes, musicians set the stage with their performances, and food stalls weave the fabric of the city together, fostering a sense of unity that transcends traditional divides such as class, caste, and ethnicity in this bustling metropolis.
UNESCO’s recognition of Durga Puja emphasizes its importance as a public display of faith and artistry, dubbing it “the best instance of the public performance of religion and art, and a thriving ground for collaborative artists and designers.” Tim Curtis, UNESCO Representative in India, highlighted the significance of the Sarbojonin spirit—meaning “for all people”—which has characterized this communal worship since 1926. He affirmed that everyone, from clay sculptors to drummers and local organizers, plays a vital role in contributing to one of the world’s most vibrant cultural expressions.
Durga Puja is not only a celebration of heritage but also a powerhouse for the creative economy. According to a 2019 study, the industries surrounding the festival generate an impressive $4.53 billion, accounting for 2.58 percent of West Bengal’s GDP.
This year, Shombi Sharp, the United Nations Resident Coordinator in India, embarked on a journey through the century-old pandals, which this time spotlighted the critical issue of sustainable agriculture. He expressed that the theme addressed the “evil” of pesticides and unsustainable farming practices, showcasing a display of 280 rice varieties from eastern and northeastern India. Sharp noted, “That’s 12-13 million visitors being exposed to powerful messages about organic agriculture, biodiversity, and sustainability.”
Another innovative pandal captured attention with its AI-themed design, where Goddess Durga is depicted in her traditional form amidst a backdrop of circuit-board patterns and glowing data streams. This striking juxtaposition of faith and technology sends a clear message: that both can coexist harmoniously, even within a futuristic context.
Visitor responses to the blend of tradition and innovation reflect both intrigue and caution. Nupur Hajara, a 30-year-old lab technician from Kolkata, remarked, “The more positively people receive AI, the better. If they take it negatively, that won’t help – right?” IT professional Sumitam Shom acknowledged the significance of integrating AI into the conversation, emphasizing its potential benefits while also warning about the risks of fraud and misuse, particularly with deepfakes and misleading images.
The theme of environmental awareness was further explored in a poignant pandal titled “Shabdo” (“Sound”), which highlighted the diminishing sounds of nature—like chirping birds and rustling leaves—through an immersive sensory experience. This reflective installation prompted visitors to meditate on what it means for urban habitats to grow quieter as nature diminishes. Raja, a visitor to this pandal, voiced a shared concern: “You barely see birds anymore. My grandfather used to tell me how common they were; now they’re rare. This pandal is our way to wake up the community, to learn how to bring the birds back and to start working on it together.”
Many other pandals echoed urgent social themes as well. One honored acid attack survivors, raising awareness while also celebrating their dignity and contributions to society. Another focused on the critical issue of water conservation, further amplifying the festival’s role as a platform for social change.
For younger attendees, the messages resonated powerfully. Tisa, an 18-year-old student visiting a pandal dedicated to water conservation, reflected on the pressing need for public awareness regarding groundwater depletion, stating, “This is the best way to spread awareness to the public.”
Inclusivity is also a growing focus for Durga Puja. In June 2025, UNESCO and the UN in India partnered with organizations for persons with disabilities to launch comprehensive accessibility guidelines for festival organizers. The positive outcomes of these efforts are already visible, with ramps and barrier-free layouts facilitating mobility, Braille signage and sign-language interpreters enhancing communication, and quiet seating areas providing rest for visitors.
The impact of these changes is profound, as illustrated by Shombi Sharp’s recollection of a father who, for the first time in 17 years, was able to bring his daughter, a wheelchair user, to celebrate Durga Puja. “That was an incredibly emotional moment,” Sharp shared, highlighting the festival’s commitment to making this cherished tradition accessible to all.
As Durga Puja continues to evolve, its blend of cultural celebration and social advocacy serves as a powerful reminder of the potential for community-driven initiatives to inspire change and foster unity in a diverse society.
