Powai Bengali Welfare Association was formed in 2006 with the purpose of enhancing cultural and social harmony, organizes its Durga Puja festival at Hiranandani Gardens, Powai. The Durgotsav was first organized in the same year and has since emerged as one of the biggest and most popular pujas in Mumbai.

Since then, the Durgotsav has won the hearts of Mumbaikars for its uniqueness as well as inclusiveness. The glittering lights, the marvelous pandal, the ever gorgeous idol have always come together in sync to showcase the rich heritage and cultural traditions of India. Mumbaikars from all walks of like throng the Puja ground every year to witness the dance of the divine organized in the most professional way by PBWA members in accordance with their ethos — “Culture Binds Us.” If words aren’t enough, awards from government authorities are a clear testament to the herculean efforts — year after year.

One of the unique attractions of the PBWA Durga Puja has been its novel Natmancha, which is constructed every year by master craftsmen from West Bengal. The Natmancha, which over the years has been inspired by the architectural marvels of Indian temples like the Dakshineshwar temple, Lotus temple, the Belur Math, the Bishnupur Temple, the Konarak Temple, and the Sripuram Golden Temple, has been a trendsetter since the inception in 2006.

The PBWA Durgotsav has become synonymous with the delicious community lunch (bhog) that is served with great enthusiasm on the three main puja days (Saptami, Ashtami, and Navami) to thousands of visitors. But that’s not all. Durga Puja can probably never be complete without high-octane cultural extravaganza with an impressive line-up of performers from across the country. Our in-house talent also gets to showcase their skills at the Mukto Mancha. Then, there’s the Dhunuchi Dance (Naach) competition, which has been one of the biggest crowd pullers, has become an integral part of our celebrations.

A key initiative that has been taken up over the past several years is directed toward our environment. We consciously strive to avoid the use of non-biodegradable and toxic materials in the construction of the Natmancha as well as other temporary structures. Specific arrangements are made to minimize the use of non-eco friendly materials such as plastics. Saplings are distributed during the Durgotsav.

Last but not least, we believe the overwhelming success of the PBWA Sarvajanin Durgotsav is attributable to the active and enthusiastic participation and support of the residents of Powai and adjoining regions, making it one of the most inclusive community celebrations in Mumbai for over a decade.

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