In a historic and culturally significant moment, Durga Puja was celebrated for the first time at New York’s iconic Times Square, infusing the vibrant landmark with the rich traditions of Indian culture. Organised by The Bengali Club USA, this two-day celebration drew a large crowd, primarily comprising Indian-Americans, many of whom donned traditional attire to mark the occasion. The event became a beacon of pride for the community, and a moment of cultural unity in one of the world’s most bustling locations.
The festivities began with the traditional Nabami Puja and the recitation of Durga Stotras, symbolizing the ninth day of Durga Puja. At the heart of the celebration stood a beautifully adorned Durga Puja pandal, capturing the attention of not just the participants but also passersby and onlookers who marveled at the grandeur of the setup. The pandal, a replica of the ones seen in Kolkata, stood as a cultural landmark, blending traditional Indian aesthetics with the modern skyline of Times Square.
Videos of the event, shared widely across social media, showcased the celebratory atmosphere. One particularly popular video captured women dressed in traditional Bengali attire gracefully performing the Dhunuchi dance, an essential part of Durga Puja rituals, amid the bright billboards and advertisements that define Times Square. The juxtaposition of this age-old cultural dance with the hyper-modern surroundings made the moment all the more extraordinary.
In addition to the religious and cultural aspects, the event featured live musical performances, enhancing the festive ambiance. A live band performed traditional Bengali songs, further engaging the crowd and adding a musical dimension to the celebrations.
The internet quickly embraced the historic event, with many hailing it as a testament to the growing influence and recognition of the Indian-American community in the United States. Several social media users called the event “historic,” highlighting it as a reflection of India’s “soft power” on the global stage. The event was not just a celebration of religion but also a display of India’s cultural richness, diversity, and the community’s contributions to the cultural fabric of the U.S.
One particularly emotional post from a social media user captured the pride felt by many in the community: “Who could have ever imagined the vibrant Durga Puja being celebrated at the heart of Times Square? It’s a moment that fills us Bengalis with immense pride, one that will echo in our hearts forever. This beautiful union of tradition and modernity, thousands of miles from home, brings with it a wave of nostalgia—a reminder of our roots, culture, and the eternal spirit of Ma Durga that transcends borders. Truly, this will be a memory to cherish for generations to come.”
Other users echoed similar sentiments, with one stating, “A historic celebration! For the first time ever, Durga Puja graced Times Square, bringing the heart of Bengali culture to the center of New York City. A momentous occasion for the Indian diaspora and a vibrant showcase of tradition on a global stage.”
Another user noted, “This is the soft power of Indians. Congratulations on this celebration in New York.” The growing recognition of Indian festivals abroad was another common theme, with a comment reading, “The respect and recognition Indians are getting abroad nowadays was never seen or given before.”
Durga Puja is one of India’s most significant festivals, honoring the goddess Durga’s victory over the demon Mahishasura, symbolising the triumph of good over evil. This historic celebration in Times Square allowed the Indian-American community to not only reconnect with their cultural roots but also share this momentous tradition with a global audience, adding another chapter to the rich tapestry of Indian culture’s influence worldwide.