Navi Mumbai: As the next prominent festival approaches, the city is gearing up to celebrate Durgotsav 2024 in grand style. Scheduled from October 8 to October 13, this year's Durga Puja will commence with Bodhan and culminate in the joyous celebration of Vijaya Dashami.

Organized by the Navi Mumbai Bengali Association (NMBA), this year's Durgotsav marks the 45th year of this cherished festival, offering a diverse array of cultural, social, and religious events. The festivities will unfold at the fully air-conditioned CIDCO Exhibition Centre in Vashi, commencing on Shasti, October 9, and continuing through Vijaya Dashami on October 13.

Head priest Nirupam Mukherjee shared insights on the puja rituals: “This year, two almanacs, or panchangs, will be followed across the city. NMBA will adhere to the ‘Visuddha Shiddhanta’ curriculum for Durgapuja 2024. We plan to perform every ritual, including Bodhan, Amantran, Adhibas, Baron, Saptami Snan, Ashtami Puja, Sandhipuja, Kumari Puja, Nabami Homam, and daily Pushpanjali, as per scripture. The auspicious Sandhi Puja will occur on October 11 from 11:43 AM to 12:31 PM, and we expect a large turnout of devotees for the rituals.”

In its commitment to environmental responsibility, NMBA aims to host a plastic-free puja venue using eco-friendly materials, including betel nut plates for bhog, with robust waste management and a zero-waste festival zone. Anticipating around 100,000 visitors daily, NMBA has enhanced security arrangements, including the installation of advanced CCTV systems and a dedicated firefighting unit.

Shri Sukanto Nag, President of the Association, stated, “Celebrating 45 years of strength, unity, and festivity, NMBA is prepared to organize Durga Puja within a centrally air-conditioned 50,000 square foot venue near Vashi Railway Station. Security is a top priority, and we’ve increased personnel to ensure a safe environment for everyone. A portion of the funds raised will support the 'Home for Cancer Patients' and other social activities.”

Visitors can enjoy food stalls, a kid's play zone, and exhibitions featuring Bengali sarees, sweets, and snacks like jhalmuri and phucka (pani puri) throughout the festival.

Event Highlights:

- Morning Events:

  - Saptami (October 10): Program by Dignity Foundation

  - Ashtami (October 11): Mukto Manch (Open Stage for All)

  - Navami (October 12): Special Fashion Show by children of Radha Krishna Memorial Trust

-Evening Events:

  - Anwesshaa on Shasti (October 9)

  - Anupam Roy on Saptami (October 10)

  - Akriti Kakkar on Ashtami (October 11)

  - Abhijit Bhattacharya on Navami (October 12)