The IB Block Durga Puja Committee in Salt Lake (Bidhannagar) has launched this year’s spectacular celebration with a stunning ‘Dubai Theme’, transforming Kolkata into a mini Dubai for the UNESCO-listed Durga Puja festival.
At 160 feet tall, a replica of the iconic Burj Khalifa serves as the centerpiece, surrounded by faithful recreations of UAE landmarks like the Dubai Frame, Burj Al Arab, Palm Jumeirah, Ain Dubai, Address Sky View, and Atlantis The Royal. Visitors can enjoy dazzling light shows on the Burj Khalifa replica, a golden-lit Dubai Frame, and an impressive water-and-fire show at the mini Palm Jumeirah.
“This year’s Durga Puja aims to bring Dubai’s glittering skyline, modern architecture, and vibrant energy to Kolkata,” said Dr. Subir Choudhury, president of the IB Block Durga Puja Committee.
“Our goal is to blend Dubai’s cosmopolitan charm with traditional Bengali artistry and devotion to Maa Durga, creating a unique cultural experience for all visitors.”
Grand scale and craftsmanship
This ambitious project cost around Dh3 million and took over 200 artisans more than 90 days to complete. The structures were crafted using traditional and modern materials including bamboo, wood, iron, steel, aluminium scaffolding, fabrics, thermocol, acrylic, fiberglass, plaster of paris, glass, and mirrors.
Vibrant lighting effects — such as LEDs, chandeliers, projection mapping, fibre optics, and neon lights — enhance the grandeur, creating a breathtaking spectacle after sunset.
UNESCO Heritage recognition
Durga Puja in Kolkata was added to UNESCO’s Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity in 2021, marking it as India’s first festival to receive this recognition. Each year, Kolkata’s pandals are renowned for creativity and thematic artistry, attracting millions of visitors worldwide.
Dr. Choudhury attributed the success of the Dubai-themed pandal to generous sponsor support and community partners, along with the dedication of artisans who brought the vision to life.
“With thousands expected daily, this year’s Dubai-inspired pandal is set to be one of Salt Lake’s most talked-about attractions,” he added.
The IB Block Durga Puja Committee invites devotees and visitors to experience this unique blend of faith, creativity, and cross-cultural celebration — and to seek the blessings of Maa Durga amidst the glittering skyline of a mini Dubai in Kolkata.
