Kolkata Rains: Iconic Durga Puja Pandals Under Water, City Battles Record Flooding | Visuals Inside

In an unprecedented turn of events, Kolkata’s vibrant Durga Puja celebrations have been marred by severe flooding as heavy overnight rainfall submerged several iconic pandals. The city, renowned for its elaborate and thematic pandals, now faces the challenge of restoring these cultural landmarks ahead of the festivities.

Record Rainfall Disrupts Durga Puja Preparations

According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD), the heavy rainfall was triggered by a low-pressure system over the north-west Bay of Bengal. Several neighbourhoods, including Garia Kamdahari, Jodhpur Park, and Tollygunge, experienced waist-high waterlogging. Streets leading to major puja hubs have been inundated, making it difficult for residents to reach the pandals or continue festive preparations.

Massive Rains in #kolkata since the last 3 hours! Major areas #flooded like never before. Heavy spell of #Rainfall in the city right before #DurgaPuja
Stay safe everybody!#cyclone #cloudburst pic.twitter.com/VUuoQkkxgC

— Murtaza Khambaty (@MurtazaKhambaty) September 22, 2025

Submerged Pandals: A Cultural Setback

Some of Kolkata’s most celebrated pandals, including Thanthania, Bosepukur Talbagan, and College Street installations, were severely affected. These pandals, which often take months of meticulous planning, now face structural damage and potential loss of artistic decorations. Artisans and volunteers have been working tirelessly in waterlogged conditions to rescue idols, lighting, and thematic props. Social media posts show devotees wading through knee-deep water, attempting to protect the city’s cultural heritage.

Large parts of greater Kolkata region particularly South Kolkata has gone completely submerged under water because of unannounced heavy downpour last night.

But this has not bothered the spirits of some pujo enthusiasts, pandal hopping is still going on amidst heavy downpour. pic.twitter.com/0rwXW204GH

— Sourav || সৌরভ (@Sourav_3294) September 23, 2025

Visuals Capture the Extent of the Damage

Videos and images shared on Instagram and X depict submerged pandals and residents striving to salvage decorations. Many users have expressed concern over the damage to Kolkata’s traditional and artistic landmarks, highlighting the importance of these installations not just as religious symbols but as cultural statements. The hashtag #KolkataFloods is trending with updates from across the city.

 

 

 

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A post shared by Reeliv it বাংলা (@reeliv_it_bangla)

 

 

 

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A post shared by Rajesh Kumar Reddy (@rajeshreddyega)

Restoration Efforts Underway

Despite the challenges, Puja committees are rallying together to restore the damaged pandals. Efforts are being made to pump out water, repair structural damage, and ensure that the festivities proceed as planned. Community support and solidarity are playing a crucial role in these restoration endeavours.

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Weather Forecast and Precautions

The IMD has predicted light to moderate rainfall continuing in South Bengal until September 26, with a possible respite from September 27. Organisers are preparing contingency plans to ensure that the festivities proceed safely once the weather improves.

Kolkata's iconic Maddox Square #DurgaPuja pandal venue flooded pic.twitter.com/siJJHdGlee

— Indrajit Kundu | ইন্দ্রজিৎ (@iindrojit) September 23, 2025

Kolkata’s Durga Puja is not only a religious event but also a cultural showcase, with thematic creativity and community participation at its core. While floods have temporarily dampened the celebrations, the city’s resilience and collective effort highlight its determination to preserve this cherished festival.

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