Pune: Saptapadi Durga Puja Festival to Be Held in Balewadi from October 16 to 21

Pune, 10th October 2026: The Saptapadi Cultural and Sports Association will organise its Sharadiya Durga Puja 2026 celebrations at Safa Banquets, Balewadi High Street, from October 16 to 21. The six-day festival marks the fifth year of the association’s community Durga Puja celebrations and will feature traditional rituals, cultural programmes and a Bengali food festival.

This year’s theme, ‘Manusher Majhe Maa’, meaning ‘The Mother Within Us’, highlights the presence of the divine in people around us and recognises the contributions of those who work behind the scenes to make the celebrations possible.

The details were shared at a press conference attended by Sanjay Biswas, president of the Saptapadi Cultural and Sports Association; Joydeep Chatterjee, vice-president; Sneha Kundu and Soumitra Kundu, general secretaries; and Raj Bhanot, treasurer.

Speaking about the theme, Biswas said the concept reflects the belief that the presence of Goddess Durga can be experienced through the hard work, dedication and humanity of people who strive to bring happiness to others.

The theme extends beyond religious rituals to acknowledge the contributions of idol makers, pandal artisans, dhak players, lighting technicians, flower vendors, security personnel and sanitation workers. Many of them work long hours, often staying away from their families, to ensure that others can enjoy the festivities. The association aims to recognise these individuals whose efforts often go unnoticed.

Eco-Friendly Durga Idol to Be a Major Attraction
Sneha Kundu and Soumitra Kundu said an eco-friendly idol of Goddess Durga would be one of the main attractions of this year’s festival. The idol is being designed in a simple, elegant and serene form, portraying the Goddess as a benevolent and compassionate mother.

Her expression is intended to convey tranquillity, forgiveness and compassion. The idol will also feature intricate jewellery handcrafted by local artisans over several months, reflecting their craftsmanship and devotion.

Raj Bhanot said the association’s fifth-year celebrations would emphasise gratitude, respect for every individual’s contribution and the importance of unity. The festival aims to preserve cultural traditions while bringing people together through devotion and shared cultural experiences.

The programme will include devotional music, dance performances, artistic presentations and cultural events showcasing India’s diverse traditions. Bhog and prasad will be distributed to devotees, while an exhibition featuring product stalls, a food court and activities organised by participating institutions will provide additional attractions.

Facilities for Visitors
The organisers have invited members, well-wishers and devotees from across Pune to participate in the celebrations.

Facilities at the venue will include air-conditioned spaces, valet parking, a free health camp, wheelchair assistance for senior citizens and persons with disabilities, and round-the-clock medical assistance.

Traditional Durga Puja rituals will be conducted every morning, followed by Pushpanjali and other customary ceremonies. The association has also planned a special programme titled ‘Ananda Mela’.

Saptapadi Durga Puja 2026: Festival Schedule

Friday, October 16 – Maha Shashthi
8 am: Kalparambha Puja
5 pm to 8 pm: Ananda Mela
7:30 pm: Baran Vidhi and Shashthi Puja, followed by cultural programmes

Saturday, October 17 – Maha Saptami
9:30 am: Nabapatrika Pravesh
10 am: Saptami Puja
11 am: Pushpanjali
12 noon: Mahaprasad distribution

Sunday, October 18 – Maha Ashtami
9:30 am: Ashtami Puja
11:30 am: Pushpanjali
12 noon: Mahaprasad distribution

Monday, October 19 – Maha Navami
7:20 am: Sandhi Puja
7:50 am: Balidan and Deepdan
10:30 am: Navami Puja
11:30 am: Pushpanjali

Tuesday, October 20 – Dashami Preparatory Puja
8:30 am: Kumari Puja
9 am: Kumari Bhog

Cultural programmes will be held every evening throughout the festival. The organisers have also announced that special sattvik Mahaprasad will be served for four days, with distribution beginning at noon each day.
The celebrations will conclude on October 21.