Anand Day 4- Sindoor Khela and Dussehra- Rani Mukerji, Kajol, Ishita Dutta, Vatsal Sheth, Nibedita Paal, Jyoti Mukerji, Maera Mishra, Bharat Godambe, Dorris Godambe, Tanisha Mukherji, Rupali Ganguly, Sumona Chakroborty , Sharbani Mukherjee , Debu Mukherjee, Samrat Mukherjee, visited North Bombay Durga Puja to seek Maa Durga’s blessings at SNDT Ground, Santa Cruz
North Bombay Sarbojanin Durga Puja Samiti, a beacon of tradition and culture in Mumbai, dazzled devotees and visitors with the splendour of its 77th-year celebrations. One of the oldest and most revered Durga Puja events in the city, delivered an unforgettable spectacle, blending spirituality, art, and culture at its newly adorned venue—*SNDT, Juhu Tara Rd, Daulat Nagar, Santacruz (West), Mumbai, Maharashtra 400049.*
At the heart of the celebrations stood an awe-inspiring *18-foot idol of Goddess Durga*, meticulously crafted by master artisans brought in from Kolkata, ensuring the most authentic and breathtaking representation of the deity. Accompanying Maa Durga were the intricately sculpted idols of *Saraswati, Lakshmi, Kartik, and Ganesh*, together creating a divine tableau that embodies the essence of devotion. What distinguished this celebration was its unwavering commitment to tradition.
In a bold and creative shift, this year’s theme was inspired by the captivating beauty of *Morocco*. Devotees were transported to a world where traditional Durga Puja rituals harmoniously blend with the allure of Moroccan artistry, infusing the celebration with a unique global flavour.
North Bombay Sarbojanin Durga Puja is fondly known as the Bollywood Durga Puja of India. With celebs like *Kajol, Rani Mukerji, Hrithik Roshan, Ranbir Kapoor, Alia Bhatt, Amitabh Bachchan, Jaya Bachchan, Mouni Roy, Ashutosh Gowariker and many more seeking maa Durga’s blessings*.
A key highlight was the biggest bhog service in India. Where more than *10,000 people gathered under one roof in a spacious, air-conditioned dome* and partook in the sacred meal. What set this experience apart was the Samiti’s ethos of inclusivity—everyone, regardless of caste, colour, or financial background, was invited to relish the bhog, served by the hands of Bollywood’s biggest celebrities, alongside members of the committee. This beautiful tradition reflects the core belief that in Maa Durga’s home, everyone is equal.
In keeping with its legacy of extraordinary cultural programs, the pandal came alive with performances by some of the nation’s most celebrated singers. This year’s star-studded lineup included *Daler Mehndi, Pritam and Pawandeep Rajan*, and many more, who took to the stage to offer their soulful renditions in devotion to Maa Durga.
However, due to the convergence of Ashtami and Navami on the same day, bhog was only served on two special days—*October 10th and 11th*. The traditional menu included rice, khichdi, an array of sweets, exotic vegetables, and a delightful assortment of chutneys, ensuring an authentic and flavorful feast for all devotees.
Hygiene and cleanliness were the utmost priority, with a dedicated housekeeping team ensuring that all facilities, including the restrooms, remain spotless and dry, offering a comfortable environment for the vast crowd of attendees.
Founded in 1948, the North Bombay Sarbojanin Durga Puja Trust boasts a rich history, established by legendary figures like Shri Sasadhar Mukerji, Ashok Kumar, Kishore Kumar, Bimal Roy, Hemant Kumar, S.D. Burman, Joy Mukerji, Pradeep Kumar, Ram Mukerji, and others.
*In the words of the members of the North Bombay Sarbojanin Durga Puja Samiti*: _“This year’s celebrations was bigger, better, and grandeur than ever before”_
