Prayagraj is gearing up for one of its most anticipated cultural and religious celebrations as the Civil Lines Durga Puja Committee prepares to unveil a spectacular pandal for the 43rd edition of its annual festival.
This year, the committee has chosen to construct a unique boat-shaped pandal, a design that promises to mesmerize both devotees and visitors alike.
The impressive structure, which will stand 45 feet long and 40 feet high, is being built with meticulous craftsmanship by skilled artisans specially brought in from Kolkata, the hub of traditional Durga Puja artistry.
According to organizers, the construction will be completed by September 25, just in time for the festival. Inside this grand creation, Maa Durga will be enshrined, blessing the devotees from within a setting that blends devotion, innovation, and creativity.
What makes this year’s celebration especially significant is its dedication to women’s empowerment. The committee has designed the entire festival around the theme of honoring women, ensuring that their presence and participation take center stage throughout the event.
On Shashthi (the sixth day of Navratri), 51 women from the committee will come together to perform the worship of Mother Durga. All will be dressed in elegant pink sarees, following a special dress code that symbolizes unity, grace, and empowerment.
This collective worship will stand as a powerful statement of women’s leadership in spiritual and cultural traditions.
Adding a vibrant cultural dimension, the committee has organized a musical evening on September 27, where Indian Idol 2025 singer Mayuri Saha will enchant the audience with her melodious voice. This event is expected to be one of the highlights of the celebrations, blending devotional fervor with modern cultural artistry.
For the first time in Prayagraj’s history of Durga Puja, a women’s Dhaki group will perform on Saptami. Traditionally, the dhak—a large drum associated with Durga Puja—is played by men.
This year, women will take up the dhak and present a spirited performance, accompanied by the dazzling dhunuchi dance, showcasing energy, rhythm, and empowerment in perfect harmony.
Committee President Dr. Amitav Ghosh explained that the decision to design a boat-shaped pandal was taken to give the public a distinctive and memorable experience, something that would stand apart from the usual Puja decorations and leave a lasting impression on visitors.
On Ashtami, youthful enthusiasm will take over the pandal as the committee hosts a hunuchi dance competition for boys and girls aged 10 to 18 years.
By engaging young participants, the committee aims to pass on traditions to the next generation while encouraging creativity and community spirit.
Assistant Secretary Aseem Ghosh Roy added that every day of the celebration will feature events where women will play a central and visible role, symbolizing the union of devotion and empowerment.
With its innovative pandal design, cultural programs, and focus on inclusivity, the Civil Lines Durga Puja Committee is not only upholding tradition but also sending out a strong message of women’s empowerment, equality, and cultural pride.
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