PM offers prayers on Ashtami at CR Park Durga Puja pandal

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday visited the Durga Puja pandal at Kali Bari in Chittaranjan (CR) Park here, one of the Capital’s most prominent venues for the annual festival. The visit coincided with Maha Ashtami, considered the most significant day of the Navratri celebrations.

At the pandal, set up by the CR Park Durga Puja Cooperative Society within the Kali Mandir complex, the Prime Minister offered prayers and sought blessings, joining thousands of devotees who had gathered for the occasion. His presence added a special significance to the festivities, which mark one of the most auspicious moments of Durga Puja.

In a post on X, Narendra Modi said, “Today, on the auspicious occasion of Maha Ashtami, I went to Delhi’s Chittaranjan Park to take part in the Durga Puja celebrations. Chittaranjan Park is known for its strong association with Bengali culture. The celebrations truly reflect the spirit of unity and cultural vibrancy in our society. Prayed for everyone’s happiness and well-being.”

Durga Puja, also known as Durgotsava or Sharodotsava, is an annual Hindu festival dedicated to Goddess Durga, celebrating her victory over the demon Mahishasura. This year, the celebrations began on September 28 with Shashthi and will conclude on October 2 with Vijayadashami.

Often described as “mini-Kolkata,” Chittaranjan Park is known for its strong Bengali cultural presence, reflected in its food, music, rituals and language. During Durga Puja, the neighbourhood comes alive with elaborate rituals, cultural programmes, traditional theatre, and food stalls, drawing not only local residents but also visitors from across Delhi.