Editorial photo #12818658 Religion and Belief
Kolkata Durga Puja Celebration
A Goddess Durga idol is seen at a temporary structure of worship on the eve of the 'Durga Puja' festival in Kolkata, India, on October 2, 2025. Kolkata's Durga Puja pandals are a spectacular cultural and economic extravaganza, costing between Rs 8,000 - Rs 10,000 crore, rivaling the Olympics opening ceremony. Government grants, rising per-committee payouts, and overspending highlight the festival's massive financial and social impact. (Photo by Debajyoti Chakraborty/NurPhoto)