Kolkata’s iconic Durga Puja festival is all set to take over the world! For the first time in history, the Durga Puja festival will be held in real-time at Times Square in Manhattan, US, on October 1 and 2. A newly crafted Durga Maa idol has been shipped from Kolkata for this historic celebration. Here are all the details!
Real-Time Durga Puja Celebrations At Times Square
New Yorkers, get ready for the beats of dhak as Maa Durga arrives for the iconic Durga Puja celebrations right at Times Square, Manhattan. Organised by the Times Square Durga Utsav Association (TSDUA), this will be the first real-time Durga Puja celebration in America. A beautiful idol, crafted by Kumartuli artisan Pradip Rudra Paul, has been specially made and brought all the way from Kolkata. The announcement was also made by TSDUA on their official Instagram account.
The two-day real-time celebrations on October 1 and 2 will be held at Father Duffy Square next to the iconic Red Stairs. Apart from praying to Goddess Durga, visitors can also experience traditional rituals such as Sindoor Khela and Dhunuchi Naach. The organisers have also planned Navratri celebrations representing rich cultural traditions from Odisha, Gujarat, and Karnataka.
Also Read: After Durga Puja, Chhath Puja May Get UNESCO Heritage Status, Reveals PM Modi; All About It
Cultural Performances In The Heart Of Manhattan
According to the organisers’ (TSDUA) official Instagram page, there will be a worldwide live telecast so viewers across the world can witness the celebrations in Times Square on their screens. But wait, there’s more. Devotees who attend this historic Durga Puja will also be immersed in the music and magic of Lopamudra Mitra’s soul-stirring voice. Joy Sarkar, with his amazing compositions, is also set to take the stage at Times Square.
As per a report by India Currents, an Off-Broadway troupe, Suratyi, will also stage a performance of Rama’s Akal Bodhan. They will narrate the mythological origins of the Puja to a global audience.
From the dhak beats to the dhunuchi dance, this is surely going to be an amazing celebration for Maa Durga. Indians living in America can join the real-time celebrations and experience a home away from home. Native Americans can also enjoy witnessing this Indian festival unfold at the heart of Manhattan!
Also Read: Fish For Bengalis During Durga Puja Is More Than A Festive Food, It’s A Sacred Ritual; Here’s Why
So, if you are currently in New York, we suggest you do not miss these celebrations at all!
Cover Image Courtesy: @IshitaSanatani/ X (Image used for representation)