Kolkata : Today is Maha Sasthi, and Goddess Durga has finally arrived with her children. Meanwhile, the city of joy buzzes with excitement as everyone gears up to celebrate her “agomoni” and visit the AI-themed Durga Pandals across Kolkata. Just a few days ago, incessant rainfall turned Kolkata into a “mini Venice,” damaging many puja pandals. However, the dedicated puja committees worked around the clock, cleared the floods, and presented their pandals in pristine, “immaculate condition” to eager “darshanarthis.”
“Pandal Hopping 2025” has officially kicked off, and people of all ages, regardless of religion, step out with families and friends to enjoy the festive spirit. In addition, the city hums with music, lights, and laughter, and Orissa Mirror joined the excitement to explore some of the most creative pandals.
Our first stop was 25 Pally in Kidderpore, where artists celebrated Warli Art, inspired by prehistoric cave paintings. Every corner of the pandal reflected the tribal aesthetic, and the sculptors designed the 10-foot-tall Durga idol in a tribal style, perfectly complementing the theme. As a result, visitors felt transported back to the roots of ancient art, enjoying a soulful and visually stunning experience.
Next, we headed to the futuristic Jagat Mukherjee Park, themed around Artificial Intelligence. The moment we stepped inside, we felt as if we had been transported into the future. A metallic, robotic voice echoed through the pandal, seemingly introducing itself and warmly welcoming us to the spectacle. Moreover, the ambient lighting, combined with the mechanical sounds, created an immersive, almost cinematic experience.
The Goddess stole the spotlight with her AI-inspired weapons, enhancing both the grandeur and uniqueness of the pandal. Visitors admired the serene yet futuristic expression on her face, and the innovative surroundings gave them an almost “ethereal experience.” Therefore, this pandal ranks among the “must-visit” spots in Kolkata this year.
Finally, Kolkata continues to blend tradition with modern creativity as artists push the boundaries of imagination. From tribal artistry to cutting-edge AI designs, the city’s pandals offer something for everyone, ensuring that Pandal Hopping 2025 becomes a festival of innovation, devotion, and pure joy.
