Block: AJ
Year: 35th
Budget: Rs 17 lakh
The look: The puja imparts the message to save the environment and for this they have chosen the culture of Warli tribes of western India. The park has been turned into a circular Warli village surrounded by figures of trees and people, in Warli art style. The tribe worships trees so a tree is their centre piece too. Inside is more Warli art in bright colours. The idol is traditional but her attire has Warli artwork.
Fun funda: Sashthi- Ladies club Angana will present Teen Kobir Gaan, featuring songs by Atul Prasad Sen, Rajanikanta Sen and Dwijendralal Ray. Recitation and performance by Sa Re Ga Ma’s Gourav and Arpita. Saptami- Music, dance, recitation and scripted musical piece directed by Utpal Sinha. A piece on songs from films by Rituparno Ghosh, directed by Aloka Sen and Moyura Kar. Children’s play Panta Buri directed by Swagata Bhattacharya and Subrata Bhattacharya. Ashtami- Recitation, dance and dance drama Mira Sambad directed by Deborshi Chakraborty and Moumita Chakraborty. Navami- Dance, recitation and a fashion show based on Tagore’s female characters. Dashami (afternoon)- Conchshell-blowing and dhunuchi dance contests. Traydoshi - music, Gauria nritya by dancers from Rabindra Bharati University.
Food fiesta: Saptami- Rice, daal, two types of vegetables, mihidana, chutney, papad. Ashtami- Khichuri, labda, beguni, tomato chutney, payesh. Navami- Pulao, veg chip, paneer curry, chutney, kulfi.
Theme maker Abhijit Ghatak has placed a huge sculpture of an aged man as the centrepiece of the pandal and residents themselves have painted more elderly faces around. There are replicas of hand pumps, old-fashioned chairs and window-panes that are now considered obsolete, just what some youths think of senior citizens. The idol is artistic.
Fun funda: Sashthi- Music, dance, audio drama Brishti Bheja Brishti directed by Gora Chakraborty, music programme Sakhi oi Bujhi Banshi Baje. Saptami- DJ music and dance. Ashtami- Recitation, dance, band performance by Metronome. Navami- Recitation, dance, music, drama Gol Bodon. Dashami- quiz, antakshari.
Food fiesta: Saptami- Pulao, veg chop, paneer curry, dhokar dalna, chutney, papad, bonde. Ashtami- Luchi, alur dom, chholar dal, chutney, papad, bonde. Navami- Khichudi, labda, beguni, chutney, papad, payesh, bonde.
Block: AJ
Year: 35th
Budget: Rs 17 lakh
The look: The puja imparts the message to save the environment and for this they have chosen the culture of Warli tribes of western India. The park has been turned into a circular Warli village surrounded by figures of trees and people, in Warli art style. The tribe worships trees so a tree is their centre piece. Inside is more Warli art in bright colours. The idol’s backdrop has Warli artwork.
Fun funda: Sashthi- Ladies club Angana will present songs of Atul Prasad Sen, Rajanikanta Sen and Dwijendralal Ray. Recitation and performance by Zee Bangla Sa Re Ga Ma Pa’s Gourav and Arpita. Saptami- Music, dance, recitation and scripted musical piece directed by Utpal Sinha; a piece on songs from Rituparno Ghosh films, directed by Aloka Sen and Moyura Kar. Children’s play Panta Buri. Ashtami- Recitation, dance and dance drama Mira Sambad directed by Deborshi Chakraborty and Moumita Chakraborty. Navami- Dance, recitation and a fashion show based on Tagore’s female characters. Dashami (afternoon)- Conchshell-blowing and dhunuchi dance contests. Traydoshi- music, Gaudia nritya by dancers from Rabindra Bharati University.
Food fiesta: Saptami- Rice, dal, two types of vegetables, mihidana, chutney, papad. Ashtami- Khichudi, labda, beguni, tomato chutney, payesh. Navami- Pulao, vegetable chop, paneer curry, chutney, kulfi.
Block: AA
Year: 43rd
Budget: Rs 12 lakh
The look: The pandal is a replica of Belur Math and the idol is traditional.
Fun funda: Sashthi- Music, drama Dodul Moni directed by Partha Chatterjee. Ekadashi- Guest musicians to perform.
Food fiesta: Saptami- Rice, shukto, dal, bhaja, phulkopir tarkari, dhokar dalna, chutney, papad, mishti. Ashtami- Luchi, veg chop, Kashmiri alur dom, narkol diye chholar dal, mixed vegetable, chutney, papad, mishti. Navami- Khichudi, beguni, labda, papad, payesh.
Block: AB
Year: 41st
Budget: Rs 12 lakh
The look: Judging from the way we are destroying the world, theme maker Goutam Das feels Ravan continues to live in us. The entrance of the pandal has a statue of Ravan and inside are light boards of pristine nature as well as the destruction caused by us. Homes are shown hanging from the ceiling too, as they have been turned upside down.
Food fiesta: Saptami- Khichudi, labda, beguni, chutney, papad, payesh. Ashtami- Luchi, chholar dal, alur dom, chutney, bonde. Navami- Pulao, alur dom, chhanar kofta, chutney, papad, rosogolla, Ekadashi (dinner)- Fried rice, alur dom, rosogolla.
Block: AC
Year: 42nd
Budget: Rs 8 lakh
The look: The exterior, decked up with coloured fibre sheets, is a replica of the prayer hall Upasana Griha in Santiniketan. The idol is traditional.
Fun funda: Sashthi- Music programme Surer Jhorna. Saptami- dance drama Dashavatara. Ashtami- residents to sing hits of Hemanta Mukherjee. Navami- Drama Dhishum Dhishum directed by Diptendu Banerjee.
Food fiesta: Saptami- Rice, moog dal, shukto, alu bhaja, alu phulkopir tarkari, chutney, papad, mishti. Ashtami- Luchi, begun bhaja, chholar dal, khichudi, labda, chutney, papad, mishti. Navami- Pulao, beguni, mattar paneer, alur dom, chutney, papad, payesh, mishti.
Block: AD
Year: 41st
Budget: Rs 20 lakh
The look: The block aims to revive the practice of blowing conchshells. So there are numerous conchshells in the backdrop of sea-green hues as a reminder of where shells originate. Fibre casting has been used to make 3ft long conchshells.
Fun funda: Sashthi- Play Bama, directed by Anasuya Nandy. Saptami- Play Ekti Obastob Golpo, directed by Partha Ganguly. Ashtami- Scripted music piece on the works of five poets, called Sur Chhonde Pujor Gondhe directed by Sutapa Ganguly. Navami- Play Biliti Pishi, directed by Debjani Sarkar. Solo music, dance and recitation on all days.
Food fiesta: Saptami- Fried rice, paneer pasinda, dhoka/ chhanar dalna, chutney, papad, mishti. Ashtami- Khichudi, labda, alur dom/ paneer curry, chutney, golap jam. Navami- Rice, dal, jhuri alu bhaja, potol chingri, parse/pabda/katla, mutton curry, chutney, mishti.
Block: AE (Part 2)
Year: 43rd
Budget: Rs 16 lakh
The look: The theme is roots, be they of a tree or our heritage. So the top of the pandal is green with leaves but a few feet at the bottom are devoted to earthy hues. This portion has murals of roots, often taking the form of a mother holding the earth together.
Fun funda: Sashthi- Dance, kids’ drama Lorai Bonam Rosomalai directed by Anindya Sen. Saptami- Audio drama by students of elocutionist Urmimala Basu’s institute Kotha Nodi, which has a branch in the block, fusion dance, ladies’ drama Bibaho Bibhrat, directed by Anindya Sen. Ashtami- Children’s programmes and dance choreographed by Sritama Barik. Navami- Recitation, magic show by Pijush Banerjee.
Food fiesta: Saptami- Khichudi, finger chips, labda, jolpai chutney, payesh, papad. Ashtami- Luchi, alur dum, chholar dal, plastic chutney, papad, payesh. Navami- Pulao, paneer curry, alur dom, amsattwo-khejur chutney, papad, payesh.
Block: AG
Year: 33rd
Budget: Rs 6.5 lakh
The look: The theme is “women and nature” and the community hall has been decorated by the block women. To discourage the use of plastic they are using only paper to showcase all aspects of women’s lives. Quilling is being used too.
Fun funda: Contests such as conchshell-blowing and candle lighting will be held for women every evening. Ekadashi- A scripted musical piece by ladies.
Food fiesta: Saptami- Khichudi, labda, alu bhaja, beguni, pineapple chutney, bonde. Ashtami- Peas kachori, chholar dal, alur dom, pulao, paneer curry, chutney, papad, rosogolla. Navami- Naan, chana masala, fried rice, chicken kosha, chutney, papad, rosogolla.
Block: AL
Year: 21st
Budget: Rs 9 lakh
The look: The theme is to be eco-friendly and the pyramid-like pandal is made of jute, bamboo, cotton and motifs of peacocks and dragons are used. The idol is traditional.
Fun funda: Sashthi- Go as you like for children. Saptami- Dance and drama Bibaho Bibhrat by women. Ashtami- Quiz conducted by Tamaghna Saraswati and Satadru Ghosh, dance by Tias Dance group. Navami- Songs of today and yesteryear.
Food fiesta: Saptami- Khichudi, labda, pakoda, chutney, papad, darbesh. Ashtami- Kachuri, chholar dal, Kashmiri alur dom, pulao, paneer, navratan curry, chutney, mishti. Navami- Rice, dal, alu bhaja, bandhakopir tarkari, machher kalia, chutney, rasogolla. Dashami- Rice, dal, mutton curry, chutney.
Block: BA
Year: 40th
Budget: Rs 10 lakh
The look: The pandal will be simple and idol traditional
Fun funda: Sashthi- Inauguration by Swami Vimalatmanandaji Maharaj of Ramakrishna Math, Yogodyan, aagomoni songs and release of the block’s souvenir. Saptami- Anandamela by ladies and quiz. Ashtami- Dhunuchi dance. Navami- Dandiya and conchshell blowing contest. Ekadashi- Felicitation of students who have done well in Board exams, kids’ programmes, dance drama Paribar, directed by Subrata Hore. Dwadashi- Music, dance drama directed by Satarupa Hore, play Dantaranga by youth. Trayodashi- Dance drama Padmini, play Purba Nirdharito.
Food fiesta: Vegetarian food from Saptami to Navami, non-vegetarian on Ekadashi.
Block: BC
Year: 43rd
Budget: Rs 10 lakh
The look: The pandal resembles a Shiva temple and inside, the theme of women’s empowerment will be shown through bangles, trident (implying that if needed, women can use a weapon) and torches (depicting women’s fury.
Fun funda: Sashthi- Dance on Mahisasuramardini and to songs of RD Burman. Saptami- Kids’ dance, recitation, women’s play Holiday Home directed by Tapas Das. Ashtami- Dhunuchi dance. Navami- music, dance by guest group Kalapi.
Food fiesta: Saptami- Khichudi, beguni, labda, chutney, papad, mishti. Ashtami- Luchi, alur dom, chholar dal, chutney, mishti. Navami- Pulao, navaratna curry, veg chop, chutney, papad, mishti. Dashami- Rice, dal, bhaja, mutton/fish curry, chutney, mishti.
Block: BE (West)
Year: 36th
Budget: Rs 12 lakh
The look: With global warming as theme, the pandal is modelled on the Krishnabai temple in Mahabaleshwar. The idol is traditional by Sanatan Rudra Pal.
Fun funda: Sashthi- Music show by block residents; Saptami- Programme by block ladies forum. Ashtami- Play by block children; Navami- Musical programme by residents; Chaturdoshi- Bijoya Sammellani followed by musical evening.
Food fiesta: Saptami- Khichudi, labda, beguni, payesh. Ashtami- Luchi, chholar dal, alur dom, vegetable chop, chutney, papad, mishti. Navami- Pulao, Navratan curry, dhokar dalna, chutney, papad, mishti.
Block: BF
Year: 41st
Budget: Rs 15 lakh
The look: The pandal and the idol will be traditional.
Fun funda: Sashthi- Inauguration, followed by dance Shakti Rupeno Sangsthita, instrumental music and dance Sriradhar Abhishar. Saptami- Recitation, dance, drama Ek Dhama Alu. Ashtami (morning)- quiz. (Evening)- Dance, drama Sundari lo Sundari. Navami (morning)- Debate for and against the idea of “One nation, one language”. (Evening)- Dance drama Sajli on women’s empowerment directed by Rama Mookherji, music by Rupak Roy, a professional singer from the block. Dashami (morning)- Fashion show for all ages.
Food fiesta: Saptami- Khichudi, labda, beguni, chutney, papad, payesh. Ashtami- Luchi, chholar dal, pulao, alur dom, chutney, papad, bonde. Navami- Rice, machher matha diye dal, alu bhaja, alu-potol, machher kalia/ paneer, chutney, papad, mishti. Dashami- Pulao, doi katla, dhokar dalna, chutney, papad, misthi.
Block: BH
Year: 36th
Budget: Rs 12 lakh
The look: Time was when people turned to god for answers. Now they prefer turning to social media. So logos of Google, Facebook, WhatsApp etc. are plastered all over the pandal. A 10-ft tall papier mache of a face is installed and has holy words of all religions inscribed. There are images of gods and saints of various religions too. But there are also figures of people — heads replaced with those of animals — to show how they are losing their human qualities by joining the social media frenzy. The idol has Tibetan influences.
Food fiesta: Saptami- Khichudi, labda, begun bhaja, bnadhakopir tarkari, chutney, papad, mishti. Ashtami- Kochuri, chholar dal, alur dom, navratan korma, chutney, papad, mishti. Navami- Pulao, dal, machher matha diye dal, paneer curry, fish kalia, payesh, mishti.
Block: BK
Year: 33rd
Budget: Rs 17 lakh
The look: The park has been turned into the hills and caves of Kedarnath. Inside is a statue of Nandi the bull, facing the idols.
Fun funda: Sashthi- Children’s programmes and Hemanta Mukherjee and Manna Dey songs by residents. Saptami- A scripted music show, directed by Monojit Chandra and Tinku Chowdhury. Ashtami- Play Smriti Sudha directed by Bikramjit Sen, music by guest artiste. Navami- An adda will take place in the morning with the likes of former Justice Ashok Ganguly, former vice-chancellor of Rabindra Bharati University (RBU) Pabitra Sarkar, dean of RBU Gautam Nag, film director Satarupa Sanyal and member of parliament Kunal Ghosh. Resident Chandrasekhar Bag will moderate the session. (Evening)- Magic show, dance, family fashion show. Dashami (morning)- quiz by Ratnendu Sen, Anandamela.
Food fiesta: Saptami- Khichudi, begun bhaja, labda, chutney, papad, mishti. Ashtami- Luchi, chholar dal, alur dom, chutney, papad, mishti. Navami- Rice, dal, bhaja, tarkari, chutney, papad, mishti. Dashami- Rice, dal, bhaja, dimer devil/ fish fry, mutton curry, chutney, papad, mishti.
FE Block Saradindu Chaudhury
FC Block Saradindu Chaudhury
BL Block Saradindu Chaudhury
BE Block east Saradindu Chaudhury
BB Block Saradindu Chaudhury
AK Block Saradindu Chaudhury
Block: CA
Year: 41st
Budget: Rs 14 lakh
The look: Sindur, considered auspicious, is the theme here. The pandal would be cylindrical with a huge third eye painted. The pandal would have a window, peeping through which visitors would see the vermillion on Durga’s head as if spreading into the sky. The background of the idols has kulos with alta pata on them.
Fun funda: Sashthi- Dance by residents. Saptami- Performance by girls’ poetry band Udrran. Ashtami- Music by residents. Navami- Contemporary songs by guest artiste. Trayodashi- Residents to stage Badal Sarkar’s play Boro Pishima, directed by Ranjan Biswas and Snehasis Mukherjee. Chaturdashi- Guest artiste to sing.
Food fiesta: Saptami- Khichudi, beguni, labda, chutney, papad, mishti. Ashtami- Luchi, chholar dal, dhokar dalna, alu-paneer, chutney, papad, ice cream. Navami- Pulao, beguni, khasir mangsho/ paneer, chutney, papad, golap jam. Dashami- Rice, dal, bhaja, ilish-er matha diye muri ghonto/or paneer, sorse bata ilish/ chhanar kofta, chutney, papad, mishti.
Block: CB
Year: 40th year
Budget: Rs 12 lakh
The look: The theme is fairy land with thermocol cut-outs of fairies and owls all around. There are two elephants made of fibre too. The pandal outside shows the sky and clouds on the top, lotuses in the middle and water and fish at the bottom. The idol is traditional.
Fun funda: Sashthi- Modern Bengali songs by block ladies, directed by Urmila Chakraborty. Saptami- Sitar recital by Nivedita Dutta, tabla by Saradashish Chatterjee and audio plays Ruby-r Bondhu and Suksho Bichar, directed by Diptendu Banerjee. Women and children will also present a dance, directed by Mou Saha. Ashtami- Dance by residents and Ehsaas band to present Bengali, Hindi, sufi and folk music. Navami- Play Durgar Pujo, directed by Kaustav Mazumdar, about kids including an under-privileged friend to stage a play. Singer Kankana Banerjee will present Bengali and Hindi music.
Food fiesta: Saptami- Khichudi, labda, chutney, payesh. Ashtami- Luchi, chholar dal, begun bhaja, basanti pulao, chhanar kofta, chutney, papad, malpua. Navami- Dehradun rice, dal, alu baja, rui kalia, mutton kosha, chutney, papad, rosogolla. (Veg)- Matar paneer, mixed vegetable. Dashami (dinner)- Dahi vada, veg cutlet, baby naan, dal makhni, peas pulao, paneer butter masala, chutney, papad, golap jam, jilipi.
Block: CD
Year: 43rd
Budget: Rs 18 lakh
The look: The pandal is done up with masks and other handicrafts of Purulia.
Fun funda: Sashthi- Inauguration by the consul general of China Zha Liyou and others. Go as You Like by children, instrumental music by band Beniasohokola. Saptami- Music, dance and recitation. Ashtami- Synthesiser performance, recitation, songs, audio drama by senior citizens Rabi Thakur er Shonge. Ladies dance show Brishti Pore Tapur Tupur. Audio drama by youth Ichchhemoti, modern songs by Dev Bhattacharya, a resident professional singer. Navami- Music, dance, audio drama Kathgorai Ma Durga and Kolkatar Kopalkundala. Children’s drama Goopy Gyne Bagha Byne, chhou dance by Mohora Joy Ma Pahar Chandi group. Dwadashi- Recitation, drama Borda Borda by actor Goutam Haldar.
Food fiesta: Saptami- Khichudi, beguni, labda, anaraser chutney, papad, payesh, golap jam, rasmalai. Ashtami- Luchi, chholar dal, alur dom, amsattwa-khejurer chutney, papad, bonde, ice cream. Navami- Basanti pulao, phulkopi roast, paneer curry, chutney, papad, doi, mishti.
Block: CE
Year: 40th
Budget: Rs 7 lakh
The look: The idol is traditional with shola work and the lighting on the pandal will make it look like stars in the sky
Fun funda: Sashthi- Music by women and children. Saptami- Music. Ashtami- Drama Pishima go Pishima, directed by Diptendu Gupta. Navami- Rangilo Rajasthan dance by residents.
Food fiesta: Saptami- Khichudi, labda, beguni, chutney, papad, payesh, rasogolla. Ashtami- Luchi, fried rice, chholar dal, alu bhaja, paneer kofta, Kashmiri alur dom, chutney, papad, mihidana. Navami- Basanti pulao, veg cutlet, dhokar dalna, phulkopi roast, chutney, papad, pantua.
Block: CG
Year: 36th
Budget: Rs 9 lakh
The look: The idol will be traditional and the pandal simple.
Fun funda: Sashthi- While the goddess is welcomed (bodhon), the recording of a poem by Piyali Paul Guha will be played and residents will enact the state of women in the country. There will also be agomoni songs and modern songs by a guest group. Saptami- Children’s miscellaneous programmes, Go as you Like, a poetry and music collage called Durgautsav- Nari Vandana by the block ladies’ forum. Ashtami- Felicitation of resident Gautam Nag, who has become a dean at Rabindra Bharati University, harmonica by Tapas Kumar Ray, poetry and music collage Nari o Prem, dance drama Chandalika directed by Tania Nandy. Navami- Drama Bhogobano Bhul Kore by Srishti theatre group, performance by band Reunion. Dashami- Music and dance by guest artistes.
Food fiesta: Saptami- Khichudi, labda, beguni, khejur-tomato-amsattwo chutney, papad, malpua. Ashtami- Radhaballavi, alur dom, chholar dal, veg chop, plastic chutney, dorbesh. Navami- Pulao, dhokar dalna, chhanar dalna, pineapple chutney, papad, rasogolla. Dashami (dinner)- Chicken or paneer biriyani, raita, pantua.
Block: CJ
Year: 34th
Budget: Rs 15 lakh
The look: The traditional idol will be housed in a simple pandal.
Fun funda: Sashthi- Music, keyboard playing by Arko Biswas, felicitation of residents aged above 80 years, children’s drama Ekei Bole Bhagyo directed by Soumya Gupta and Sharmistha Chatterjee and women’s drama Kalaha Kirtan. Saptami- Music, dance, recitation. Ashtami- Music and audio drama Swarnajug by Shyamaprasad and Papiya Sengupta. Navami- Dance, music, children’s play Juto Abishkar directed by Saumitra Basu. Dashami (morning)- children’s quiz conducted by S.K. Banerjee.
Food fiesta: Saptami- Rice, dal, bhaja, shukto, dhokar dalna, payesh, chutney, papad. Ashtami- Khichudi, labda, beguni, luchi, alur dom, bonde, chutney. Navami- Fried rice, chhanar kofta/ dalna, navratan korma, rajbhog, payesh. Dashami (dinner)- Rice, dal, chhnyachra, pona machher kaliya, kosha khashir mangsho, ice cream, mishti.
Block: DA
Year: 39th
Budget: Rs 11.5 lakh
The look: The pandal will resemble a palace and the idol will be traditional.
Fun funda: Sashthi- Women to present songs in chorus titled Matri Rupena Sangsthita, directed by Mousumi Chakraborty. Three audio plays, Alor Thikana, Sheyane Sheyane and Patro Chai, directed by Samir Chakraborty and Nandini Sen.
A scripted musical piece by Puloma Sen and Troyee Mukherjee on the role of Doordarshan in our lives down the ages. Saptami- Music, dance, recitation and Manna Dey songs by a guest artiste. Ashtami- Guest group Antaranga to present song of all states of India. Another guest troupe will present folk music. Navami- Rabindrasangeet by residents and a guest drama troupe to present Chitto Binodon.
Food fiesta: Saptami- Khichudi, labda, beguni, chutney, papad, payesh. Ashtami- Luchi, alur dom, chholar dal, pulao, chhanar kalia, golap jam. Navami- Navratan curry, fried rice, chhanar kofta, chutney, papad, kesar kulfi.
Block: DB
Year: 42nd
Budget: Rs 8 lakh
The look: The traditional idol will be placed in a pandal resembling a thakur dalan.
Fun funda: Sashthi- Dance, stotra path and agomoni songs, directed by Loknath Sastri and Karabi Choudhury. Saptami- All events of the day — music, dance, recitation, fashion show — will be centred around the theme of saving water. Resident Sonali Basak will direct this composite show featuring participants from the age of two to 60 years. Ashtami- Old Bengali songs by the father, mother, son, daughter-in-law of the Bhattacharya family of the block (Asis, Ratna, Udayan, Dhrubaa). Youth’s play Boshi Koron directed by Soumya Dey Sarkar, baul performance. Navami- Audio drama Paropokar, directed by Anjana Banerjee, guest band to perform.
Food fiesta: Saptami- Khichudi, beguni, labda, aamshattwo chutney, papad, payesh, rosogolla. Ashtami- Luchi, paneer pasinda, narkol chholar dal, alu phulkopir tarkari, basmati pulao, jolpai chutney, papad, rosogolla, ice cream. Navami- Veg biryani, paneer chop, raita, veg kebab, anaros chutney, papad, ice cream. Dashami (dinner)- Mochar chop, chhola batura, kosha alur dom, golap jam.
Block: FE
Year: 35th
Budget: Rs 23 lakh
The look: The pandal is fashioned after the zamindar’s mansion in Mohera, Tangail, now in Bangladesh. It was built in 1890. There are elements of Raj era architecture like wide arches, kori borga, Corinthian columns and window shutters. The idol will be traditional, clad in red Benarasi sari with a golden chalchitra as backdrop.
Fun funda: Sashthi- Agomoni songs by Monalisa Mukherjee, 7pm; Rabindranath in films by Sudarshan Kala Kendra, 7.30pm, dance by Chitrakshi Chattterjee, recitation by Debraj Sengupta, musical extravaganza Mukti; Ekadashi- Dance by Medha Dutta at 6.30pm, recitation by Swapna Das, Nana Ronger Gaan, audio drama Tarpor, dance by Subhan Sarada; Dwadashi- Recitation by Archal Pal at 6.45pm, dance by Anindita Biswas, recitation by Pijushkanti Majumdar, play Nilanjaner Biye 7.30pm; Trayodashi- Dance by Rupkatha Chakraborty 6.30pm, modern songs by Arithrita Roy and group, recitation Sweta Basu, Shaam-e-ghazal
Food fiesta: Saptami- Khichudi, alu bhaja, beguni, bnadhakopir torkari, chutney, papad, payesh; Ashtami- Radhaballavi, alur dom, chholar dal, pulao, matar paneer/ chhanar kofta, chutney, papad, bnode; Navami- Kachuri, sabji, alur dom, Victoria bora, fruit polau, navratna korma, paneer butter masala, dhanepatar chutney, papad, golap jam, ice cream.
Block: GC
Year: 35th
Budget: Rs 14 lakh
The look: The pandal will resemble the natmandir of a zamindar house and idol will be traditional
Fun funda: Sashthi- Felicitation of students who have performed well in Board exams, dance, agomoni songs by the ladies club. Saptami- Kids’ drama Polasir Juddho, directed by Sushmita Das. Ashtami- Music, dance by women. Navami- Instrumental music by kids, music by guest artiste. Ekadashi- Drama Bandh-er Dosh Din by Chorus theatre group.
Food fiesta: Saptami- Rice, dal, alu bhaja, katla, chutney, mishti. Ashtami- Khichudi, beguni, labda, chutney, papad, mishti. Navami- Pulao, veg cutlet, mocha/ potol er dolma, alur dom, payesh, mishti. (Non-veg) Pabda/parse. Dashami (dinner)- Luchi, pulao, mutton curry, dimer devil, ice cream.
Block: GD
Year: 35th
Budget: Rs 20 lakh
The look: The pandal will resemble a Shiva temple with a big Shivalinga and statues of elephants at the entrance. The idol, draped in a white sari with red border, will be traditional.
Fun funda: Sashthi- Music, dance, recitation, dance drama Chitrangada directed by Sanchari Samaddar. Saptami- Music, dance, drama Gondhobichar directed by Antara Dasgupta. Ashtami-Recitation, dance, play Bigyapan Biroti, directed by Sayan Banerjee. Navami- Recitation, music, guest band to perform Bollywood and Tollywood music.
Food fiesta: Saptami- Khichudi, labda, beguni, chutney, papad, payesh. Ashtami- Pulao, luchi, paneer, alu-phulkopir tarkari, chutney, papad, bonde. Navami- Rice, dal, alu bhaja, muri ghonto, fish, chicken, chutney, papad, rajbhog. Dashami (dinner)- fried rice, butter chicken, chutney, papad, mishti.
Block: HA
Year: 35th
Budget: Rs 15 lakh
The look: The pandal is modelled on the Cooch Behar rajbari.
Fun funda: Saptami- Dance, music, poetry collage by block-based group Dakshiner Baranda. Ashtami- Music, dance, guest band Troyee to sing hits of the 80s and 90s. Navami- Magic show and Hindi music by guest artistes.
Food fiesta: Saptami- Rice, dal, alu bhaja, tarkari, doi machh, chutney, papad. Ashtami- Khichudi, labda/ alur dom, beguni, chutney, papad, mishti. Navami- Rice, dal, alu pakoda, chicken/fish paneer kofta, chutney, papad, mishti. Dashami (dinner)- Radhaballavi, alur dom, bonde.
Block: HB
Year: 35th
Budget: Rs 20 lakh
The look: Centred around Chaitanya Mahaprabhu, the pandal will be done up with namabolis and kulos. The idol will be traditional.
Fun funda: Sashthi- Eighteen children will dance in tribute to the goddess and residents will stage Bharate Chai, directed by Partha Sarathi Upadhyay. Saptami- Miscellaneous items. Ashtami- Zee Bangla Sa Re Ga Ma Pa artistes to sing. Navami- Conchshell-blowing, dhak playing and dhunuchi dancing contests.
Food fiesta: Saptami- Khichudi, labda, two types of fries, pakora, chutney, papad, payesh. Ashtami- Luchi, chholar dal, alur dom, pulao, chhanar dalna, chutney, mishti. Navami- Pulao, rice, dal, panchmisheli, choice of mutton or fish, chutney, payesh, mishti.
Block: IA
Year: 34th
Budget: Rs 11 lakh
The look: The traditional idol will be placed in a simple pandal
Fun funda: Saptami- Audio drama Khitir Khitir, Navami- Drama Liquor-er Khojey. Miscellaneous programmes on all other evenings.
Food fiesta: Saptami- Pulao, beguni, dhoka, paneer butter masala, chutney, papad, mishti. Ashtami- Khichudi, ghee, labda, chutney, papad, rosogolla. Navami- Rice, moog dal, alu bhaja, tarkari, chholar dal/ katla kalia, chutney, papad, sondesh. Dashami- Rice, navratan korma, paneer/ mutton/ fish, chutney, papad, rosogolla, ice cream.
Block: IB
Year: 33rd
Budget: Rs 11 lakh
The look: The pandal will resemble the crown of goddess Durga. The interiors make use of lotuses. The idol’s attire is gorgeous, to match the theme.
Fun funda: Sashthi- Old Bengali songs by residents. Saptami (morning)- sit-and-draw, recitation contest. (Evening)- kids’ dance, recitation by guest elocutionist, audio drama Smritir Bihongo and story telling of the story Khurshid. Ashtami- Magic show. Navami (morning)- Quiz. (Evening)- Drama Purba Ranga group to stage Ei Mrityu Upotyaka Amar Desh Noy. October 12- Guest singer to perform Hindi and Bengali songs.
Food fiesta: Saptami- Khichudi, beguni, labda, alur dom, chutney, payesh. Ashtami- Luchi, begun bhaja, paneer butter masala, navratna curry, semui payesh. Navami- Fried rice, fish butter fry, paneer kofta, fish curry, mutton curry, chutney, ice cream.
Block: JC
Year: 21st
Budget: Rs 5 lakh
The look: The pandal will be simple but the traditional idol has been brought from Krishnanagore.
Fun funda: Sashthi- Music, recitation, children’s programmes. Saptami- Music, dance, recitation, felicitation of elderly residents and mono act by Meenakshi Singha. Ashtami- Recitation, dance, drama Khanto Pisher Roj Mamcha. Navami- Dance, recitation, music
Food fiesta: Saptami- Rice, dal, bhaja, tarkari, machher kalia, chutney, mishti. (Dinner)- Luchi, chholar dal, tarkari, misthi. Ashtami- Pulao, paneer, tarkari, bhaja, chutney, mishti. (Dinner)- Khichudi, alur dom, mishti. Navami- Rice, dal, shukto, khashir mangsho, chutney, ice cream. (Dinner)- Chana batura, mishti. Dashami- Rice, fish, tarkari, fish curry, chutney, mishti. (Dinner)- Fried rice, beguni, mixed vegetable, chutney, mishti.
Block: FD
Year: 35th
Budget: Rs 60 lakh
The look: A 25ft Gulliver lands in the world of Liliputs where the houses are about his waist high. But once he falls asleep, a little further into the pandal, he is tied to the ground by the little people, shown as barely a foot or a foot and half tall, standing all over his body. About seven of them carry off his cigarette which he had lit before nodding off. A fire truck had arrived to douse the burning stick and stands parked close by. Gulliver’s hand and mouth move, so do some of the Liliputs. The mushrooms and pumpkins that grow in the village are huge. Far off, in the trees, some live in tree houses.
Fun funda: Sashthi- Children’s play Tuntuni O Rajar Golpo at 7pm; audio drama Khitir Mitir; Dances of India; Saptami- Women’s play Pashupati Opera, 7pm; Recitation collage Bondhu; Ashtami- Men’s play Tanaporen 7pm; Musical show directed by Sonali Das; Navami- Prize distribution for Board results, sit-and-draw and recitation contests, 7pm; Dance programme titled I am Durga.
Food fiesta: Saptami- Rice, shukto, moog dal, alu bhaja, achar, chhyachra with fish head, fish curry, (for vegetarians- naan, dal makhani, paneer); Ashtami- Luchi, chholar dal, alur dom, khichudi, beguni, labda, payesh, chutney, papad; Navami- pulao, alu pakoda, dal makhni, navratna korma, fish/ meat/ vegetable Manchurian, rasogolla, chutney, papad.
Block: BJ
Year: 36th
Budget: Rs 35 lakh
The look: BJ Park is now home to all famous comic and cartoon heroes of the world. One enters Phantom’s skull cave under a gigantic skull and faces Charlie Chaplin in a scene from Modern Times. On all sides, lined against the wall, stand 48 statues of the well-loved figures-Phantom to Mandrake, Hnada-Bhnoda to Tom and Jerry…The pandal itself is the palace of Dholakpur from Chhota Bheem. Keep an eye out for Phantom. A man dressed as the masked superhero will keep vigil on a horse, trotting around the park on the paved tiles at regular intervals.
Fun funda: Sashthi- Dance by little Sreya Chatterjee; Nakshatra Welfare Society to present dhunuchi dance; Dipayan and Suparna Chatterjee to sing; Dolon Mitra to present folk songs. Saptami- Moniratna and Monalisa to present a poetry and music collage; Sudip Dey will recite; Bengali band Reunion; Bahnisikha and S. Kumar of Zee Bangla Sa Re Ga Ma Pa fame to perform. Ashtami- A private company to put up events; Navami- Conchshell blowing and ululation contest among residents at 6pm, followed by antakshari; Indrani Ganguly and Remo of Zee Bangla Sa Re Ga Ma Pa fame, 8pm.
Food fiesta: Saptami- Khichudi, labda, begun bhaja, alu bhaja, kumro bhaja, chutney, mishti. Ashtami- Luchi, chholar dal, fried rice, chilli paneer, chutney, papad, Shaktigarh lyangcha. Navami- Rice, shukto, dal, alu bhaja, mutton curry, ice cream. Dashami- Fish butter fry, mutton biryani, chicken chaap, ice cream.
Block: AK
Year: 32nd
Budget: Rs 30 lakh
The look: Man’s entrapment in enticements is symbolised in this Purnendu Dey-created pandal by spiders-of all sizes. The webs hanging wall to wall all along the path to the pandal have innumerable figures trapped in them. Huge spiders hang overhead lying in wait. The entry is under the legs of a 12ft spider. A whirlpool with water swirling has four human figures in various phases of drowning. The central installation in the sanctum sanctorum has human figures trapped in multiple webs falling in a well. The goddess is beyond it all and hangs in mid-air while the demon in man sinks to his fall. The illumination creates an alluring atmosphere.
Fun funda: Navami- Dance show by children and women, 7.30pm directed by Sriparna Bose. Children’s dance and recitation at 8.30pm, Children’s play Abak Jolpan; Dashami- Music show by block children at 7.15pm and then by women at 8pm.
Food fiesta: Saptami- Rice, shukto, dal, alu bhaja, dhoka/ chhanar dalna, phulkopir tarkari, chutney, papad, mishti; Ashtami- Khichudi, labda, mishti; Navami- rice, dal, fish fry, chuno machher jhal, fish kalia, chutney, papad, rasmadhuri from Chandernagore.
Block: AE (Part 1)
Year: 36th
Budget: Rs 20 lakh
The look: The pandal tries to highlight how senior citizens are neglected by society. At the entrance is a bus that has been painted colourfully and given wings in a bid to seek more reserved seats for the elderly on buses.
Theme maker Abhijit Ghatak has placed a huge sculpture of an aged man as the centrepiece of the pandal and residents themselves have painted more elderly faces around. There are replicas of hand pumps, old-fashioned chairs and window-panes that are now considered obsolete, just like how some youths think of senior citizens. The idol is artistic.
Fun funda: Sashthi- Music, dance, audio drama Brishti Bheja Brishti directed by Gora Chakraborty, music Sakhi oi Bujhi Banshi Baje. Saptami- DJ music and dance. Ashtami- Recitation, dance, band performance by Metronome. Navami- Recitation, dance, music, audio drama and drama Gol Bodon. Dashami- quiz, antakshri.
Food fiesta: Saptami- Pulao, veg chop, paneery curry, dhokar dalna, chutney, papad, bonde. Ashtami- Luchi, alur dom, chhoalr daal, chutney, papad, bonde. Navami- Khichuri, labda, beguni, chutney, papad, payesh, bonde.
IB Block Saradindu Chaudhury
EC Block Saradindu Chaudhury
Balaka Abasan
In what has arguably become New Town’s biggest puja, Balaka Abasan has worked on the theme of water pollution. Theme maker Uttam Mondal has built a 40 ft tall ship and visitors are walking up to its deck (there is even provision to go to the edge, stretch out your arms and do a Titanic pose!) From there, visitors walk down to the belly of the ship and are in for a surprise. While they walk a ramp leading to the goddess, all around them is the sea and sea creatures. A transparent poly carbon sheet overhead separates them from marine life — sharks, fish, sea anemones and plastic waste. Replicas of the creatures are hanging from transparent strings and appear to be swimming in the water choking or enmeshed in plastic that people dump. The idol is artistic, with Durga’s children seated on her anchal. Instead of weapons, the gods who gifted Durga those weapons are shown seated on her hands. The puja was opened on Mahalaya by Hidco chief Debasish Sen and will stay till immersion on Dwadashi. “On Mahalaya alone, we drew about 50,000 footfall. Last year, we had between 1.5 and 2 lakh people visiting every day,” said secretary Prasanna Kumar Roy.
Programme Schedules are subject to last minute changes
AJ Block Saradindu Chaudhury
Block: BB
Year: 46th
Budget: Rs 16 lakh
The look: The puja has used discarded items and created toys. Cute dolls have been given form using baskets, bottles and balls, flowers have been made out of spoons and bottle caps, plastic bottles have been cut, coloured and had bulbs fitted into them so they appear to emit different coloured lights.
Fun funda: Ashtami- Dhunuchi contest. Navami- Conchshell-blowing contest. Dwadashi- Dance, recitation, women’s play Krishnapokkho, directed by Suchitrita Ghosh. Trayodashi- Scripted music item, music, play Smriti Sudha.
Food fiesta: Saptami- Rice, shukto, alu bhaja, chutney, papad, payesh.
Ashtami- Radhaballavi, alur dom, chholar dal, pulao, dhokar dalna, anaraser chutney, papad, simui payesh. Navami- Khichudi, alu pakoda, beguni, labda, bandhakopir tarkari, tomato chutney, papad, payesh. Dashami- Dimer devil, rice, machher matha diye dal, chhyachra, alu phulkopi, mutton curry/ doi katla/ dimer dalna, plastic chutney, papad, chaler payesh.
Block: IB
Year: 33rd
Budget: Rs 11 lakh
The look: The pandal will resemble the crown of goddess Durga. The interiors make use of lotuses. The idol’s attire is gorgeous, to match the theme.
Fun funda: Sashthi- Old Bengali songs by residents. Saptami (morning)- sit-and-draw, recitation contest. (Evening)- kids’ dance, recitation by guest elocutionist, audio drama Smritir Bihongo and story telling of the story Khurshid. Ashtami- Magic show. Navami (morning)- Quiz. (Evening)- Drama Purba Ranga group to stage Ei Mrityu Upotyaka Amar Desh Noy. October 12- Guest singer to perform Hindi and Bengali songs.
Food fiesta: Saptami- Khichudi, beguni, labda, alur dom, chutney, payesh. Ashtami- Luchi, begun bhaja, paneer butter masala, navratna curry, semui payesh. Navami- Fried rice, fish butter fry, paneer kofta, fish curry, mutton curry, chutney, ice cream.A scripted musical piece by Puloma Sen and Troyee Mukherjee on the role of Doordarshan in our lives down the ages. Saptami- Music, dance, recitation and Manna Dey songs by a guest artiste. Ashtami- Guest group Antaranga to present song of all states of India. Another guest troupe will present folk music. Navami- Rabindrasangeet by residents and a guest drama troupe to present Chitto Binodon.
Food fiesta: Saptami- Khichudi, labda, beguni, chutney, papad, payesh. Ashtami- Luchi, alur dom, chholar dal, pulao, chhanar kalia, golap jam. Navami- Navratan curry, fried rice, chhanar kofta, chutney, papad, kesar kulfi.
Block: DB
Year: 42nd
Budget: Rs 8 lakh
The look: The traditional idol will be placed in a pandal resembling a thakur dalan.
Fun funda: Sashthi- Dance, stotra path and agomoni songs, directed by Loknath Sastri and Karabi Choudhury. Saptami- All events of the day — music, dance, recitation, fashion show — will be centred around the theme of saving water. Resident Sonali Basak will direct this composite show featuring participants from the age of two to 60 years. Ashtami- Old Bengali songs by the father, mother, son, daughter-in-law of the Bhattacharya family of the block (Asis, Ratna, Udayan, Dhrubaa). Youth’s play Boshi Koron directed by Soumya Dey Sarkar, baul performance. Navami- Audio drama Paropokar, directed by Anjana Banerjee, guest band to perform.
Food fiesta: Saptami- Khichudi, beguni, labda, aamshattwo chutney, papad, payesh, rosogolla. Ashtami- Luchi, paneer pasinda, narkol chholar dal, alu phulkopir tarkari, basmati pulao, jolpai chutney, papad, rosogolla, ice cream. Navami- Veg biryani, paneer chop, raita, veg kebab, anaros chutney, papad, ice cream. Dashami (dinner)- Mochar chop, chhola batura, kosha alur dom, golap jam.
Block: DL
Year: 35th
Budget: Rs 23 lakh
The look: The puja provides a glimpse of the temples of rural Bengal. The pandal will be a 50ft high temple made of eco-friendly items like bamboo, jute and mats. The idol is traditional.
Fun funda: Sashthi- Music, dance and a kids’ programme called Five Star Toddler. Saptami- Music and dance show titled Nava Shakti Boibhabam. Ashtami- Odissi dance, audio drama Factor X, directed by Kakoli Bhattacharya, drama Babuder Tal Pukure. Navami- Recitation, dance show called Abohoman Bangali o Bangaliana.
Food fiesta: Saptami- Khichudi, kumri, labda, bnadhakopir tarkari, plastic chutney, papad, payesh. Ashtami- Luchi, chholar dal, alur dom, pulao, dhokar dalna, tomato chutney, papad, bnode, Navami- Shukto, moog dal, alu bhaja, paneer kofta, khejur-amshattwa chutney, papad, gulab jam. Dashami- Rice, dal, alu bhaja, machher kalia/ paneer, chutney, papad.
Balaka Abasan Saradindu Chaudhury
CA Block Saradindu Chaudhury
AE Block Part -I Saradindu Chaudhury
BD Block Saradindu Chaudhury
AH Block Saradindu Chaudhury
CF Block Saradindu Chaudhury
BG Block Saradindu Chaudhury
CK-CL Block Saradindu Chaudhury
BJ Block Saradindu Chaudhury
Block: BG
Year: 35th
Budget: Rs lakh
The look: The pandal is a tribute to the 50 years of Satyajit Ray’s Goopy Gyne Bagha Byne, so there are images of scenes of the film painted on the walls. Figures of the ghosts, Bhooter Raja etc are stuck on top and along the walkway. Strips of colourful saris have been tied along panels as relief. A traditional idol will be placed in the courtyard, and images and models of characters from the film will be placed all around.
Fun funda: Sashthi- Agomoni dance, Banani Mukhopadhyay’s play Norom Pak directed by Kumkum Dutta Choudhuri. Play Brishtir Chhayachhobi directed by Sumon Sengupta. Saptami- Dance Devi Vandana, Narayan Bandyopadhyay’s play Bharate Chai, directed by Rahul Sengupta. Ashtami- Dance, music and quiz conducted by Sumon Sengupta. Navami- Recitation, dandiya and block-based group Salt Lake Balvikas Kendra to present drama, dance and Gita recitation. Ekadashi- Badal Sarkar’s play Ballabpur-er Roopkatha, directed by Sumon Sengupta.
Food fiesta: Saptami- Khichudi, beguni, labda, mochar chop, alu phulkopi kosha, pineapple chutney, papad, payesh, amriti, pan masala. Ashtami- Luchi, chholar dal, Kashmiri alur dom, koraishutir paratha, begun basanti, paneer makhniwala, alubokhra chutney, papad, kheer with malpoa, pan masala. Navami- Basanti pulao, corn cheese chop, potoler dolma, chhanar kofta, navratan curry, mixed fruit chutney, papad, Sita bhog, pan masala. Dashami- Basmati rice, moog dal, alu bhaja, chhyanchra, (non-veg) fish fry, doi machh, mutton kosha, plastic chutney, papad, kamalabhog, ice cream , pan masala; (Veg) paneer pasinda, malai kofta, phulkopi roast, raita.
Block: AH
Year: 36th
Budget: Rs 12 lakh
The look: The pandal, with a traditional idol, is an imaginary temple, done up with mats and jute.
Fun funda: Sashthi- Music, dance and a kids’ drama Murkir Hari directed by Jaya Das. Guest group Kolkata Uchchhas to stage dance show, a children’s music show. Saptami- Music, dance, recitation. Swarna Dutta will direct an item on folk dances of different states. Ashtami- Ladies will present folk songs; Manindra Nath Bhattacharya, an elderly resident, will present audio drama Mono Bichchhed. Navami- A guest artiste to take stage.
Food fiesta: Ashtami- Luchi, veg chop, chholar dal, alu-phulkopir tarkari, fried rice, chilli paneer, chutney, rosogolla. Navami- Khichudi, beguni, labda, alur dom, chutney, payesh.
Block: CF
Year: 41st
Budget: Rs 14.5 lakh
The look: Alarmed at the rate of global warming and environmental deterioration, the block has chosen birds as a sign of hope. The pandal is shaped like a bird’s nest and inside are cheerful cut-outs of different kinds of birds. The idol will be traditional in silver daaker saaj.
Fun funda: Sashthi- Ei Saratey Hemanta Mukherjee, featuring songs by the artiste. Shilpi Tirtha, a block-based group of dancers to present classical piece on Devi vandana called Devastakam. Saptami- Synthesier show by Abir Gorai, comedy Ascharya Maduli directed by Sudipta Ghosh and Utpal Das. Ashtami- Music programmes. Navami- Conchshell-blowing and dhunuchi dance contests. Women to present a poetry collage called Petuk Damu, directed by Swarupa Basu Mallik.
Food fiesta: Saptami- Khichudi, labda, beguni, tomato chutney, payesh. Ashtami- Luchi, begun bhaja, chholar dal, hariali alur dum, plastic chutney, bonde. Navami- Dum pulao, veg chop, dhokar dalna, chhanar kofta, mixed chatney, kamala bhog.
Block: BD
Year: 41st
Budget: Rs 18 lakh
The look: The pandal is a replica of Victoria Memorial, made of shola and ply. Inside is stone work, statues and a grand chandelier. The idol has golden daker saaj.
Fun funda: Sashthi- Women’s chorus of songs by Satyajit Ray, Bhupen Hazarika etc, audio drama Kreme Kreme Prasthan directed by Sanghamitra Ghatak. Saptami and Ashtami- Music by guest artistes. Navami- Kumari puja with Swastika Gayan, the daughter of an autorickshaw driver who lives in the block, being worshipped. In the evening, residents and Sa Re Ga Ma Pa artistes will sing.
Food fiesta: Saptami- Khichudi, labda, chutney, papad, mishti. Ashtami- Luchi, pulao, paneer curry, chholar dal, chutney, papad, mishti. Navami- Rice, dal, alu bhaja, chhyachra, golda chingri, mutton kosha, mishti.
Block: CK-CL
Year: 33rd
Budget: Rs 23 lakh
The look: The pandal —bright red and yellow — is shaped like a pagoda and the idol has been brought in from Krishnanagore. There are Buddha statues inside too.
Fun funda: Sashthi- Agomoni music, dance and a chorus by women to modern Bengali and Hindi songs. Saptami- Dance item Tumi Ashbe Bole, directed by Sonali Sen. On the theme of waiting, it will depict the anticipation for the Pujas, holidays, peace etc. Ashtami- Music, dance and guest singer Subhra Sanyal to perform. Navami- Children to stage Bharate Chai, directed by Onkar Banerjee. Folk band Rhododendron to take stage.
Food fiesta: Saptami- Rice, ghee, moog dal with peas, phulkopir tarkari, alu bhaja, paneer pasinda, chhanar kalia, amshattwa chutney, papad, rajbhog. Ashtami- Puri, radhaballavi, chana dal, alur dom, khichudi, beguni, labda, pineapple chutney, papad, golap jam. Navami- (Veg) Veg chop, radhaballavi, mushroom with green peas, shahi paneer, peas pulao, bundi raita, aamer chutney, ice cream. (Non-veg) Rice, moog dal machher matha diye, alu bhaja, topse fry, katla kalia, aamer chutney, ice cream. Dashami (dinner)- (Veg) Cheese roll, butter naan, dal makhni, pea rice, paneer butter masala, veg au gratin, dahi vada, mixed fruit chutney, papad, kulfi, pan. (Non veg) Rice, moog dal, begun bhaja, bhetki paturi, pulao, mutton kosha, mixed fruit chutney, papad, kulfi.
Block: FC
Year: 36th
Budget: Rs 7 lakh
The look: The theme is Chhota Bheem and the village of Dholakpur has been recreated. Visitors will get to walk around the colourful huts and trees and see Chhota Bheem and his friends at play.
Fun funda: Sashthi- Dance, music and conshshell-blowing contest. Saptami- Music, dance and Bangla band Mukti. Ashtami- Dance, music and jhumur music by guest artiste. Navami- Sa Re Ga Ma artistes to take stage. Dwadashi- Monon theatre group to stage Ekti Bou Kotha Koy. Children and their mothers will pay tribute to Sandhya Mukhopadhyay by dancing to her songs.
Food fiesta: Saptami- Khichudi, labda, beguni, chutney, papad, payesh, darbesh. Ashtami- Luchi, chholar dal, begun bhaja, alur dom, amshattwar chutney, papad, bonde. Navami- Pulao, dhoka, paneer, veg chop, anaraser chutney, gulab jamun. Dashami- Rice, dal, posto diye alu bhaja, mutton/ fish curry/ paneer, chutney, rossogolla.
Block: EC
Year: 43rd
Budget: Rs 18 lakh
The look: The pandal is shaped like a mud hut and patachitra artistes from Midnapore have painted legends around various forms of Durga all over the walls. The idol has an artistic touch with eyes like those in patachitra. Also, there will be no chalchitra behind the idol and guests can walk around the idol for a 360° view.
Fun funda: Sashthi- Arati utsav, where women will welcome the goddess through dance, holding up diyas. This is a ritual started by former block resident, the late dancer Manjusri Chaki Sarkar. Saptami- Children’s programmes. Ashtami- music and the play Bharate Chai, directed by Badal Chakraborty. Navami- Music, recitation and audio drama Koutuk Naksa by ladies.
Food fiesta: Saptami- Fried rice, dal, alu bhaja, dhokar dalna, phulkopir tarkari, papaya chutney, doi, mishti. Ashtami- Luchi, pulao, Kashmiri alur dom, chhanar kofta, panch misheli, chutney, doi, mishti. Navami- (veg) Khichudi, beguni, labda, chutney, doi, mishti; (Non-veg) Rice, mutton curry.
Block: EE
Year: 22nd
Budget: Rs 25 lakh
The look: The pandal is a replica of the Kedarnath temple with stone finish outside and bells embellishing the inside walls and ceilings. The idol and even the chala behind will be earthen.
Fun funda: Sashthi- (morning) sit-and-draw. (Evening) antakshari, magic show, music, recitation, audio drama, dance Anandadhara Bohiche Bhubone by Monmoyuri Dance Academy, scripted musical item, drama Manobi Natya Sanghstha. Saptami- (morning) conchshell blowing for women, dance to dhak music contest, quiz; (Evening)- Recitation, dance, music, audio drama Niyoti directed by Suktita Gangopadhyay and Pushpita Mitra. Ashtami- Music, dance. Navami- Dance, recitation audio drama, solo drama by Ila Das, show by guest singer.
Food fiesta: Ashtami- Fried rice, navratan korma, beguni, chutney, papad, payesh. Navami- Rice, ghee, begun bhaja, dal, alu-potol-chingri, chicken curry, chutney, papad, ice cream.
Block: BE (East)
Year: 40th
Budget: Rs 25 Lakh
The look: The pandal traces the transformation of the puja from the landed gentry’s mansion to the streetside community puja to an imagined puja of the future where the youth, settled away from their native places, experience puja virtually. The pandal is bigger than usual, taking up a part of the street as well. The first segment on entry is a thakurdalan with a traditional idol painted in recesses on the wall. The next segment is decked up with 92 inverted clay malsas on the wall. On the surface various aspects of the goddess have been painted.
The background music reflects the change — from classical vocal to the strums of guitar and beat of percussion instruments in the final segment. Logos of various social media companies hang from the ceiling where clouds float. The sanctum sanctorum is air-conditioned.
Fun funda: Navami- Mash-up of 70s and 80s Hindi film music, 8pm; Dashami- Bangla Ganer Sekal o Ekal, a musical extravaganza, 8pm.
Food fiesta: Sashthi- Khichudi, labda, chutney, papad; Saptami- Radhaballavi, chholar dal, begun bhaja, chutney, payesh; Ashtami- Pulao, navratan korma, payesh; Navami- Fish fry, rice, moog dal, alu bhaja, fish kalia, chutney, papad, sweets.
Block: BL
Year: 33rd
Budget: Rs 17 lakh
The look: The theme is being developed by Tanmoy Chakraborty, a block resident and an art director in films. The pandal is a replica of the fort in his film Durgeshgorher Guptadhan and the idol will be grand and bejewelled.
Fun funda: Sashthi- Music, group dance Ami Shei Meye, directed by Angana Mondal, and ladies play Kreme Kreme Prosthan. Saptami (morning)- sit-and-draw. (Evening) Recitation, music, group dance Robir Aloy directed by Jonaki Bhowmik, audio drama Kucho Sundari, performance by guest singer Debosmita & Friends and dance troupe Bhavna Dance Academy. Ashtami- Scripted music and dance programme Prem Tumi Shundor with recitation by Arati Banik; Dance, music item Ei Logon Gaan Shonabar. Youth’s drama Atha Swarga Bichitra, directed by Basab Bijoy Sarkar. Navami- Audio drama, music, guest group Theatre Proscenium to stage Proshnota Thekei Gelo, based on Mohit Chattopadhyay’s Nona Jol. Dashami (noon)- Quiz, antakshari etc. for teenagers in a collage titled Chaturanga.
Food fiesta: Ashtami- Luchi, begun bahar, chholar dal, Gobindo bhog pulao, Kashmiri alur dom, chhanar kofta, anarasher chutney, papad, payesh. Navami- Rice, shukto, machher matha diye dal, katla kalia (two pieces), amshattwo khejur chutney, papad, golap jam.
