Shillong: Meghalaya kicks off Durga Puja celebrations on October 16. The festivities run through October 21. A total of 237 pandals will go up across the state. The Central Puja Committee (CPC) confirmed the schedule following government approval.
Garo Hills leads the state with 142 celebrations. East Khasi Hills follows with 77, split between 69 community sites and eight residential spots. Eight more pujas sit elsewhere in the district, while East Jaintia Hills hosts five and West Jaintia Hills claims three. Ri-Bhoi district rounds out the count with 10.
Three major committees hit milestones this year. The Rilbong Durga Puja Committee hits its centenary. The Pynthor Umkhrah and Lumparing committees celebrate platinum jubilees. The CPC issued a statement praising these groups for their work, noting their impact on religious faith, community service, social harmony, and the preservation of cultural heritage.
Festivities start early on October 15 with the 33rd Sadbhavana Sammelan. This all-faith gathering takes place at the Rilbong Durga Puja Mandap. It aims to foster mutual respect and peaceful coexistence. Later, on October 20, the committee hosts the 33rd Late Shiv Kumar Memorial Annual Drum Beating Competition.
Idol immersion happens October 21. The designated site is the Polo immersion ghat in Shillong. Authorities and volunteers are coordinating to keep things orderly. The CPC urged the public to enjoy the art and unity of the event. They asked citizens to visit pandals across the region, stating, "The celebrations offered an opportunity for people to appreciate the artistic creativity, beautifully decorated pandals and cultural heritage associated with Durga Puja, while sharing in the spirit of joy, friendship and togetherness."
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