Photo story · 7 images

Kolkata's pandals take shape

Artisans in Kumartuli work through the night ahead of Durga Puja.

By Sourav Dey · Thursday, 8 October 2026

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1/7An artisan in Kumartuli paints the eyes of an idol, the final step known as chokkhu daan.Credit: Sourav Dey

2/7Clay idols dry under tarpaulin as a light drizzle falls over north Kolkata.Credit: Sourav Dey

3/7Bamboo frames for a themed pandal rise in a south Kolkata park.Credit: Sourav Dey

4/7A volunteer tests lights on a pandal facade inspired by terracotta temples.Credit: Sourav Dey

5/7Children watch as a sculptor shapes the hands of an idol.Credit: Sourav Dey

6/7Dhakis rehearse ahead of the festival in a narrow lane.Credit: Sourav Dey

7/7Finished idols wait to be transported to pandals across the city.Credit: Sourav Dey

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