Durga Puja in Kolkata a combination of festival and art carnival  Shuterstock
India

Things To Do In Kolkata This Weekend

From an exhibition of curated handicrafts and textiles to Puja-themed walks that take you around the old areas, there are plenty of things to do this weekend. Here's our guide to the most exciting happenings in the city

OT Staff

As the festival of Durga Puja approaches, the vibrant city of Kolkata is preparing to host a myriad of lively and diverse events to celebrate. Among the highlights are an exhibition showcasing meticulously curated handicrafts and textiles, as well as immersive Puja-themed walks that offer a unique glimpse into the rich cultural tapestry of the old city. This weekend promises a plethora of engaging activities, and we are here to provide you with a comprehensive guide to the captivating happenings in the city.

A Preview Show of Durga Puja

Anyone arriving in Kolkata for the first time during Durga Puja can be overwhelmed. There are artistic marquees (or pandals, as they are called locally) every few yards, banners and festoons everywhere, pushpanjali (a floral offering to the goddess), dazzling illuminations, and food stalls—it can all get a bit too much. If you want a more peaceful way to enjoy the festival and visit the most aesthetic puja pandals, consider a guided tour. Much like in earlier years, this year, we will also see a preview show of Durga puja art forms in Kolkata. This annual event is an initiative by Kolkata-based organisation massArt to get people to experience the excellence of the world's biggest public art festival.

An idol of Durga being worked on by artisans in Kumartuli

The guided art tour involves exclusive viewing of Durga Puja art showcased in pandals for viewers around the globe before the pujas open for general viewers. You can enjoy the festivity without hassles, with smooth movement and easy parking. Some of the pujas you can see are Dum Dum Tarun Dal, Tala Prattoy, Ahiritola Sarbojanin Durgotsab Samity, Hatibagan Sarbojanin, Kashi Bose Lane Durga Puja Samity, Chetla Agrani Club, and Tridhara Akalbodhan. Check out Insider.in for tickets.

When: September 30 to October 4, multiple locations

Shop For Art

Don't miss out on the much-awaited Art In Life exhibition and sale event hosted by the Centre of International Modern Art (CIMA) every year. Immerse yourself in the world of curated handicrafts, textiles, and accessories, showcasing timeless craftsmanship and artistry. This year, seize the opportunity to own beautiful handcrafted pieces from renowned artisans and designers such as Parama Ghosh, Sasha, Sari Ki Almari, 145 East, and more. Enjoy mega discounts of 10 to 50 percent on select items. Indulge in the finest creations that celebrate India’s rich heritage and bring home a piece of art that speaks to your soul.

When: October 9, 2024, from 11 AM to 8 PM

Where: 2nd floor, Sunny Towers, 43, Ashutosh Chowdhury Ave, Ballygunge, Kolkata, West Bengal 700019

Pick up curated handicrafts from around the country at the event

Groove To Ali Ali

Exciting news for music lovers in Kolkata. Get ready for an electrifying event as the renowned Swedish DJ and producer, Diorange, graces the City of Joy at Roots with his chart-topping anthem "Ali Ali" remix. With over 200 million views and a massive social media following, Diorange is a true sensation in the electronic music scene. His captivating remixes of popular Indian songs, including the hit "Patakha Guddi" by AR Rahman and the Nooran Sisters, have taken the music world by storm.

When: October 4, 9PM-October 5, 2AM

Where: Roots, 55, 55/1, Chowringee Rd, Elgin, Kolkata, West Bengal 700071

Goan Evenings

Immerse yourself in the vibrant fusion of Goa and Kolkata at PARK STREET SOCIAL with Goa Socials. It will be a day filled with art, music, and engaging conversations, featuring pop-up stalls of local brands, tantalising Goan flavours, exciting games, a dazzling glitter bar, and several enriching workshops. Be enthralled by live performances from the bands Switch and Blurry Slur. Mix, sip, and discover as you bask in the sunset sessions, explore market stalls, and indulge in much more.

When: October 6, 3PM onward

Where: Park Street SOCIAL, Russel St Social ,BFL Bangur Estate, 1A, next to India's Hobby Centre

A Walk Around The Old City

Durga Puja at a 'bonedi bari' has a different vibe

Get ready for a special puja walk around Central Kolkata to explore the ancestral mansions, known as Bonedi Baris, as Durga Puja approaches. This Walking Tour will take you through the old houses and the old city on the day of Chaturthi. You'll get to discover the historic areas of the city, such as Baithakkhana, Ahmerst Street, and Pataldanga, before concluding the tour at College Square. The tour will be guided by Avijit Dhar Chowdhury from Kolkata Explorers, a division of Green Step Tourism.

When: October 6, 8AM to 11AM

Where: Starting from Surendranath College, 24/2, Mahatma Gandhi Rd, Baithakkhana, Sealdah, Baithakkhana, Kolkata, West Bengal 700009

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