In the structurally precise New Town, Kolkata, a grand architectural marvel is taking shape—one that promises to transform West Bengal’s biggest festival into a permanent, year-round landmark.
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For centuries, the spirit of Durga Puja has lived in temporary pandals. Conceived as a tribute to UNESCO’s recognition of Durga Puja as an intangible cultural heritage, this 17.28-acre complex is being crafted to be the world’s largest Durgaanagan.
As many as 108 idols of various deities and 64 lion statues, representing strength and divinity – beyond worship, the Rs 262-crore complex will include a cultural museum, separate pavilions for Lakshmi and Saraswati, and a central courtyard capable of seating 1,000 devotees, making it a pivotal site for both tourism and regional heritage.
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Here are the salient details of the project:
54-metre Garbha Griha: The main sanctum sanctorum will rise to a height of 54 metres (approximately 177 feet), making it one of the tallest religious structures in the region.
108 idols and 64 lion statues: The temple will house 108 idols of various deities, representing the diverse pantheon of Hindu divinity. In a tribute to Goddess Durga’s strength, 64 statues of lions, which are Maa Durga’s vahana. It will be positioned throughout the complex.
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1,008 pillars: The entire structure will be supported by over a thousand pillars, creating grand, carved corridors for devotees.
Green building: The complex is designed as a Gold-certified green building, with 300 trees to be planted. To maintain a natural atmosphere, only 20 per cent of the area will be air-conditioned, with the rest relying on natural light and cross-ventilation.
Daily capacity: The site will accommodate 1 lakh visitors per day. A massive open space with seating for 1,000 people at once for prayers and cultural events.
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A dedicated space will showcase the history of Durga Puja, including award-winning artefacts, traditional idol-making techniques, and the evolution of pandal art.
Separate pavilions (mandaps) are planned for Lakshmi, Saraswati, Kartik, Ganesh, and Lord Shiva.
The cost is estimated at Rs 261.99 crore, to be funded primarily by the state government through the Housing Infrastructure Development Corporation (HIDCO). The contract has been awarded to Subir Engineering Works, the same firm behind the Jagannath Dham in Digha. The project is expected to be completed within 24 months, with a target opening in late 2027.
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Sweety Kumari is a seasoned journalist reporting from West Bengal for The Indian Express. With over a decade of experience in the media industry and eight years specifically with The Indian Express, she demonstrates considerable Expertise and Authority across a diverse range of critical beats.
Experience & Authority
Current Role: Journalist, The Indian Express, reporting from West Bengal.
Extensive Tenure: Over 10 years of experience in the media industry, with a long association (8 years) with The Indian Express, contributing to a high level of Trustworthiness.
Diverse Coverage: Covers crucial beats including Crime, Defence, Health, and Politics, alongside writing on trending topics.
Investigative Focus: Possesses a keen eye for investigative and human-interest stories, demonstrating depth and skill in impactful journalism.
Beat Versatility: Has honed her craft across diverse beats, including aviation and reporting on various incidents, ensuring well-rounded and comprehensive reportage.
Career Start: Began her journalistic journey as an Entertainment and lifestyle journalist with a news portal in Kolkata, providing a foundational understanding of media landscape and audience engagement.
Education
Advanced Education: Holds a PG in Mass Communication from Jadavpur University, equipping her with advanced media theory and skills.
Undergraduate Education: Holds an Honours degree in Journalism from Jaipuria College.
Multilingual Skill: Her fluency in English, Hindi, Bengali, and Maithili enhances her reach and capability to connect with diverse sources and communities in the region, adding a layer of accessibility and authenticity to her reporting.
Regional Roots: Originally from Bihar, she was brought up and educated in Kolkata (Kendriya Vidyalaya Salt Lake), giving her a deep, personal understanding of the cultural and political nuances of her reporting region.
Sweety Kumari’s combination of significant experience, specialization in key beats like Crime and Politics, and strong academic background makes her a trusted and authoritative contributor to The Indian Express. … Read More
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