For the first time, South City Mall steps from spectator to participant in Kolkata's Durga Puja tradition

With this festive spirit, South City Mall performed its first-ever Khuti Puja on Thursday, marking the beginning of what will be its inaugural Durga Puja celebration.

Anish Nair, Head Marketing Experiences and Strategy, Nexus Select Malls, said, "The first phase of Pujo will be about pre-Pujo shopping, where we are going to introduce some amazing reward programmes for customers and our retail partners, followed by cultural events celebrating the traditions of Durga Puja throughout all five days of the festival."

For years, the mall has been a familiar stop for thousands of pandal-hoppers during the festive season, offering a place to gather, pause and celebrate amid Kolkata's biggest cultural event.

The team of South City Mall at their first time celebrated Khuti Puja. Photo: PR

This year, however, it is choosing a different role—not merely as a destination alongside the festivities, but as a participant in one of the city's most cherished traditions.

"We celebrate all types of festivals here, and now we thought, why not celebrate Durga Puja by taking it outside and following the rituals and traditions properly while expanding our community? Today's Khuti Puja is the beginning of this journey, and we hope to continue it every year," said Dip Narayan Biswas, centre director of South City Mall.

The decision reflects how Durga Puja continues to evolve beyond neighbourhood associations, finding expression in new public spaces while retaining the rituals that have defined the festival for generations.

A group of Dhakis (drummers), to initiate the beginning of the festival. Photo: PR

Even as the celebrations expand into contemporary settings, the ceremony of Khuti Puja remains a symbolic reminder that every grand pandal begins with faith, community and anticipation.

Artist Subhankar Dutta said, "South City has always celebrated Durga Puja immensely. The theme, 'Jatra', reflects its journey towards a ritualistic and traditionally celebrated Durga Puja, which the mall planned to organise this year.

We hope to complete our work in about three months, with nearly 70 workers involved in the project."

The occasion was complemented by a cultural performance featuring the iconic 'Mahishasuramardini' dance drama, offering visitors a glimpse into the mythology and artistic traditions that have long shaped Bengal's biggest festival.

A dance-drama performed to showcase the heart of Durga Puja, Mahishasurmardini. Photo: PR

On the occasion of Rath Yatra, South City Mall unveiled the theme for its maiden Durga Puja, 'Jatra', conceived by artist Subhankar Dutta, signalling its intention to blend cultural storytelling with festive celebrations.