Beyond Kolkata: Uncovering the Royal Origins of Dasghora and Bhandarhati Durga Puja

Whenever anyone thinks of Durga Puja in West Bengal, the first thing that comes to mind is the grandeur of Kolkata — the splurges of North and South Kolkata, the dazzling lights of Hatibagan or Maddox Square, and the serpentine lines of pandal-hoppers. But  just 70Km away from Kolkata ,in  Hooghly district there are two gems of Bengal's cultural heritage: Dasghora and Bhandarhati Durga Puja.

These are not typical city pujas. They're not award-contending nor theme-based designs. Rather, they're something more profound — an enduring link to Bengal's past, tradition, and religious devotion.

Dasghora Durga Puja – Biswas Family Legacy

It is just a short drive from Kolkata , Dasghora is a quiet village that comes alive each autumn with the beat of dhaks, the scent of incense, and the stir of ancestor silk saris. One of the oldest such pujas in the area, the Sarkar family's Durga Puja, dating back supposedly over 300 years, is a classic example of bonedi barir pujo (aristocratic house puja).

The puja was begun in the late 17th century during the family's zamindari days. Down the generations, the family has maintained its rituals . The idol is made  in the ekchala style and puja performed in their Thakurdalan.

There is an adjacent Famous Pancharatna Gopinath Temple full with terracotta art of Bengal was built by Mr Sadanand Biswas in 1729.

The ceremonies here are done just as they were done centuries back: from bodhan to sandhi puja, and lastly, bijoya dashami with tearful goodbyes.

Roy Bari Durga Puja

Zamindar Bipin Krishna Roy started this Durga Puja in Dasghara. The Durga ‘protima’ at the Ray Bari stands out for its unique colouring — a warm, natural skin-tone palette reminiscent of classical paintings. Crafted in the traditional ‘ekchala’ (single frame) style, the idol features an interesting composition: Lakshmi and Saraswati are positioned higher, flanking the goddess on either side, while Ganesh and Kartik are placed lower. Notably, the idol does not include the vahanas (mounts) of Durga’s four children, adding a distinct visual character to the tableau.

 Bhandarhati Durga Puja – Community, Culture, and Devotion

Though Dasghora retains the sophistication of aristocratic rituals, Bhandarhati, located at Dhaniakhali, is more of a community festival. The Durga Puja in Bhandarhati is more than 250 years old and it has been  been initiated by local zamindars but eventually turned into a community Durga Puja.

Bhandarhati’s Durga Puja is famous for its rustic charm and village traditions. The idol, often handcrafted by local artisans, represents rural Bengal’s goddess — strong, motherly, and adorned with organic decor rather than glitter. The days of the puja are marked by folk performances, dhunuchi naach, kirtans, and storytelling sessions by elders, making it a truly immersive cultural experience.

One of the most touching aspects of Bhandarhati’s puja is its inclusive spirit. Everyone — regardless of caste, class, or creed — contributes to organizing and celebrating the festival.

 How to Plan a Visit

Distance from Kolkata: Approximately 60–70 km, ideal for a day excursion.

How to Reach: Catch a train from Howrah to Dhaniakhali and then take a local cab or auto.

You also get AC BUS service from Kolkata with complete guided tour-Know more

Best Time to Visit: Saptami to Navami, to experience the full cultural soak.

Pro Tip: Bring a camera but be sensitive — these are community and private spaces, not pilgrimages.