Kolkata, the cultural heart of West Bengal, experienced an unusual spell of rainfall that dampened the grandeur of Durga Puja festivities. The city, known for its elaborate pandals and vibrant celebrations during this season, witnessed cloudy skies and intermittent showers, affecting pandal hoppers and daily schedules.
Durga Puja, one of the biggest festivals of West Bengal, draws millions of devotees and visitors every year. This year was no exception, with hundreds of themed pandals set up across the city, from North Kolkata’s traditional neighbourhoods to South Kolkata’s modern designs. However, the unexpected rainfall disrupted the smooth flow of celebrations. Many pandals reported waterlogging, making it difficult for devotees to access the beautifully decorated interiors. Volunteers worked tirelessly to manage the crowds and help visitors navigate slippery and muddy roads.
The showers also caused severe traffic snarls in busy stretches such as Park Street, Shyambazar, Gariahat, and Salt Lake. Vehicles moved slowly as water accumulated on major roads, while pedestrians waded through ankle-deep water in certain areas. Public transport too was affected, with buses and taxis moving at a slower pace to avoid accidents.
For many families, the rains altered traditional routines. Several people postponed their pandal visits to avoid long waits in queues and waterlogged pathways. Street food stalls, which are a central attraction during Durga Puja nights, saw fewer customers during the downpour. Despite the disruptions, the festive spirit remained alive as people gathered in large numbers once the rain subsided. Evening and late-night pandal hopping continued with enthusiasm, with devotees praising the creativity and scale of the decorations.
Shopkeepers and traders expressed concern that the rain affected sales during what is usually their busiest season. Many shoppers delayed purchases of clothes, ornaments, and festive goods due to waterlogging in popular markets like New Market and Gariahat. However, some shopkeepers were optimistic, expecting crowds to return once the skies cleared.
The Kolkata Municipal Corporation deployed additional teams to pump out stagnant water from pandal areas and main roads. Civic authorities also appealed to pandal committees to ensure proper drainage systems around their structures. In some places, makeshift bamboo walkways were set up to help devotees move safely despite wet conditions.
Meteorological officials explained that the rainfall was linked to a cyclonic circulation over the Bay of Bengal. Forecasts indicated the possibility of light to moderate showers across Kolkata and nearby districts during the festive days. Citizens were advised to carry umbrellas and take precautions while travelling.
While the rain disrupted many plans, it could not completely dampen the fervour of Durga Puja. For devotees, the spiritual significance of the festival overshadowed the inconvenience caused by the weather. Families continued to gather, offer prayers, and enjoy cultural programs in pandals once the rain subsided. The event highlighted Kolkata’s resilience and its people’s ability to celebrate tradition even in the face of challenges.
