Kolkata’s Salt Lake area has recently witnessed the emergence of an extraordinary spectacle—a meticulously crafted mini Dubai, featuring major landmarks such as the towering Burj Khalifa and the iconic Dubai Frame. This dazzling installation is the centerpiece of the annual Durga Puja celebrations, blending cultural devotion with global architectural marvels to create a unique visual and spiritual experience.
Key Highlights Of Kolkata’s Mini Dubai
The ‘Dubai Durge Durga’ themed pandal was inaugurated recently at IB Block, Salt Lake, becoming one of the top attractions of Kolkata’s famed Durga Puja festival.
The installation includes a 160-foot replica of Burj Khalifa, Dubai Frame, Burj Al Arab, Dubai Fountain, and even Palm Jumeirah, crafted with intricate attention to detail.
The Durga Puja festival itself is recognized by UNESCO as an Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity since 2021, underscoring the event’s cultural importance.
The theme celebrates the fusion of Indian and Emirati cultures, reflecting Kolkata’s cosmopolitan spirit and India’s growing global interactions.
The replication project involved over 200 artisans and took more than three months to complete, utilizing materials like bamboo, steel, acrylic sheets, and sophisticated lighting technology.
The Vision Behind The Mini Dubai Pandal
The IB Block Durga Puja Committee envisioned recreating Dubai’s skyline as a tribute to the city’s vibrant architecture and multicultural essence. The theme signifies more than grand visuals; it symbolizes the harmony between Indian cultural roots and global inspiration.
Dr Subir Choudhury, president of the committee, emphasized the blend of futuristic Dubai aesthetics with traditional Bengali art forms centered around the worship of Goddess Durga.
The installation aims to mesmerize visitors by merging devotion, innovation, and community spirit through architectural grandeur and technological lighting effects.
The replica Burj Khalifa, one of the tallest structures globally, serves as the focal point, enhanced by light shows and detailed craftsmanship.
Architectural Marvels Recreated With Passion
Recreating Dubai’s iconic landmarks posed significant challenges but culminated in magnificent art that attracted widespread attention.
Bamboo and steel form the core framework, covered with reflective acrylic and decorated with materials such as thermocol, clay, plaster, and mirrors.
Lighting includes LEDs, chandeliers, projection mapping, and fiber optics, rendering a spectacular nighttime display reminiscent of the real Dubai skyline.
Accompanying replicas like the Dubai Frame and Museum of the Future add layers of attraction, emphasizing the cultural exchange between the two cities.
Cultural And Social Impact Of This Theme
Durga Puja draws millions of devotees and tourists, with theme-based pandals competing for artistic excellence each year.
The Dubai-inspired theme highlights Kolkata’s openness to global influences while celebrating its indigenous religious practices.
Social media buzz surrounding this pandal, bolstered by viral videos and photos, has increased interest and footfall, making it a cultural hotspot during the festival.
The theme also shines a light on the strong Indian diaspora in the UAE, acknowledging shared aspirations and intercultural bonds.
Challenges Overcome In Building The Replica
The construction faced weather-related adversities such as heavy rains that interrupted electric installations and damaged some structures.
Despite setbacks, organizers managed to complete the display on time, showcasing resilience and commitment.
The collaborative effort involved hundreds of skilled workers, local sponsors, and community members reflecting collective pride and teamwork.
The Larger Context Of Kolkata’s Durga Puja
Recognized by UNESCO, Durga Puja is more than a religious event; it is a cultural extravaganza showcasing artistry, community engagement, and vibrant storytelling.
The festival acts as a platform for artists to reinterpret tradition through contemporary themes, often incorporating social, political, or global narratives.
This year’s Dubai-themed pandal exemplifies this trend by linking Kolkata’s artistic heritage with global icons, thus enhancing the city’s cosmopolitan identity.
In essence, Kolkata’s newly emerged ‘mini Dubai’ pandal for this year’s Durga Puja stands as a stunning symbol of cultural fusion, craftsmanship, and devotion. It is a beacon of how traditional festivals continue to evolve by embracing global inspirations while rooted deeply in local faith and artistry.
Sources: Gulf News, Khaleej Times, Times of India, Instagram, Scroll.in, News18, Economic Times.
