Durga Puja: Kolkata's pandals are buzzing ahead of rain

India Sep 29, 2025

With rain looming over the peak days of Durga Puja, Kolkata's pandals are already buzzing.
The India Meteorological Department says West Bengal should expect light to heavy showers from October 2-4—right when celebrations usually peak.

Metro records highest footfall

The weather forecast hasn't dampened spirits—if anything, it's brought people out sooner.
Kolkata Metro just saw a record 9.82 lakh riders on September 27 as everyone tries to enjoy the festival before the rain hits.
Despite heavy showers claiming lives on September 29, cultural programs and art installations are still going strong across more than 3,000 city pandals (and about 40,000 statewide), all backed by major government support.