Lucknow Celebrates Durga Puja with Vibrant Festivities

On September 30, 2025, devotees in Lucknow thronged Durga Puja pandals to celebrate Ashtami, the eighth day of Durga Puja. At the Kali Bari temple in Ghasiyari Mandi, the Sandhi puja was performed, where Goddess Chamunda was worshipped with garlands of 108 bael leaves, 108 lotus flowers, and 108 jasmine flowers, along with the lighting of 108 lamps forming the 'Om' symbol.

Across the city, the festivities included dhunuchi dance, musical dramas, and competitions for children. At Sahara Estate, 22 underprivileged children from nearby slum areas were served bhog and received gifts, while also being able to buy items from the stalls for free. Visitors from Noida, like Swastika Banerjee, took a week off to celebrate Durga Puja with their families in Lucknow, where they witnessed the grand scale of the celebrations.

The enthusiasm for the festival was palpable, with women in sarees, lehengas, and jewellery, and men in colorful kurtas, clicking selfies and enjoying the festivities. The dhunuchi dance performance by Namita Das at Rabindrapalli Puja Park was a highlight, as she expressed the joy of the occasion. At Mitro Sangho Durga Puja, musical chairs were played, and several women and girls won prizes, reflecting the spirit of togetherness.