The significance of the Durga puja and what it epitomizes is much more personal than it is social. From an ideological perspective, this religious festival is a spiritual reminder of ‘good always triumphs over evil’. In every Autumn it all starts with Mahalaya which heralds the advent of the goddess Durga. Then the main celebration and worship begin on Sasthi, the sixth day. During the succeeding three days, the goddess is worshiped in her various forms including Durga, Lakshmi, and Sarasvati.
Her arrival sets off the most extravagant display of celebration. The tone of the environment takes a huge turn. The whole country synchronizes with the ritual and the rhythm of which isn’t just confined to the temple; it spreads everywhere. And where else will you feel the new vibe better than the wonderful makeshift mandaps in Dhaka? Having said that, if you are one of the enthusiast onlookers who like to explore, you might love these magnificent Durga puja mandaps in Dhaka.
Dhakeswari mandir
Located by the Dhakeshwari Rd, the Dhakeswari mandir is one of the oldest temples in Bangladesh. It is believed to have gotten its name from the term “Ishwari of Dhaka”, meaning the Goddess (who protects) of Dhaka. The traditional Sri Sri Dhakeswari temple in Dhaka was built by Raja Ballal Sen sometime around 1200 AD. It is also the national temple of Bangladesh. So naturally, the arrangement surrounding the temple is expected to be extravagant during Durga puja. And it does that beautifully.
From Mahalaya to the Vijayadashami, during the Durga puja devotees of the Hindu religion spend every day with utmost devotion and dedication. Ahead of the arrival of Durga the entire temple area is decorated beautifully with pandals and other traditional decor elements. Also, expect to see a lot of VIPs and famous celebrities visiting the temple during this time. This one is amongst the most amazing Durga puja mandaps in Dhaka for having the best overall experience.
Banani Puja Mandap
While Dhakeswari mandir is officially the center of all the buzz, it is definitely not the most extravagant one. For that you have to shift your gaze to Banani, the next probable commercial hub of Dhaka. Every year, ahead of the Durga puja, the Gulshan-Banani Sarbojanin Puja Parishad takes the initiative to build a makeshift puja mandap in the Banani playground. It is considered one of the most vibrant and popular Durga puja mandaps in Dhaka.
Here you will find the most beautiful shrine in Dhaka city. That is why visitors from across the country visit the shrine to worship, enjoy the vibe and the festivities. But the evening light-works are the most mesmerizing aspect of Banani puja mandap. This is the only time you will see something so extravagant. So if you want to have a grand “ Maa Shashthi Puja ” during the festival, Banani is most certainly one of the best Durga Puja mandaps in Dhaka for that.
Khamar bari Mandap
Every Autumn, like other prominent temples, Khamar Bari Temple is also extensively decorated during Durga puja. Located just beside the Krishibid Institute Bangladesh (KIB), the most amazing feature of this temple is the light-work and the setting of the shrine. Everything about this temple during this time screams exclusivity.
From the entrance to the shrine, everything inside the temple is neatly organized so that people do not have difficulties when visiting the mandap. Also, day-long rituals and programs are carried out every day with conviction, and devotees from all around the area come here to participate in the rituals.
Uttara Puja Mandap
Probably the biggest shrine in Uttara is built at the friends club field in Sector 3. It is the ideal place to visit during the Durga puja festival. The roads and surroundings are decorated with colorful statues, banners and neon lights, small and temporary food stalls pop up around the temples. Huge idols of Durga are placed inside the mandap alongside Ganesha and other avatars of the goddess. One can have a great time spending an entire day roaming the adjacent areas. Coupled that with the colors and celebrations on the streets, this puja mandap instantly becomes one of the best Durga puja mandaps in Dhaka. Make some time to visit the mandap, and I assure you, you won’t be disappointed!
Sree Sree Siddheswari Kali Temple
Nestled inside the Siddheswari area near the Mouchak market, the Sree Sree Siddheswari Kali Temple becomes one of the most gorgeous sights during Durga puja. It is a Kali temple so an area is allocated for the makeshift shrine of goddess Durga every year. But the final outcome is jaw-droppingly good. The arrangement is top-notch and the decoration is so good that everyone who is passing the shrine is bound to turn their head at it at least once.
The festivities around the mandap are grand – with Pujas going on for five days, and exciting crowds. So if you’re in the mood to experience such energy, you should definitely drop by the Sree Sree Siddheswari Kali Temple at least once in the five-day-long festival.
There is another puja mandap that has done something so unique and beautiful this year that it earned its place on our list. Ramna Kali Mandir is almost 400 years old and over the years it has stood the test of time and become the venue of many religious events and festivals. During Durga puja, every year a specific space of the mandir is allocated for the Durga mandap. But unlike every year, this time everything is organized and managed by women. From security and hosting to volunteer work, our girls are proving their capability once again.
As Bengalis, we cherish these festivals more than anything. It is in many ways a valuable part of our culture and plays an important role in shaping the customs and traditions of Bangladesh. All in all, this is one festival that you don’t want to miss. Regardless of your belief, there are plenty that you can enjoy.
