Mysuru: As the heritage city lights up for its festive season, an enchanting slice of Bengal’s timeless folklore, rhythm and devotion is set to unfold once more.

The Bengali Association Mysuru (BAM) has announced its annual Durga Puja Utsav-2026, promising an evocative cultural confluence where Bengal’s artistic soul seamlessly weaves into the royal elegance of Mysuru.

The grand celebration will take place from Oct. 16 to 21 at the Shivamma P.V. Mahadevappa Kalyana Mantapa, 6/4A, KRS Road, Gokulam, Mysuru.

A confluence of two heritage capitals

In a city known globally for its regal Dasara, illuminated Palaces and patronisation of classical arts, BAM’s Durga Puja has grown into a cherished symbol of harmony and cultural exchange. Far beyond a neighbourhood observance, the festival serves as a vibrant bridge connecting the heritage of the Cauvery with the artistic pulse of the Ganga.

The spirit of Pujo transforms the Gokulam venue into a sanctuary of collective joy.

The air turns sacred and celebratory with the resonant thunder of the dhak, the hypnotic swirling smoke of frankincense from the dhunuchi naach and the mellifluous strains of Rabindra Sangeet.

Tradition, flavour and fellowship

At the very core of the festival lies Bengal’s spirit of inclusive celebration. Cultural evenings will showcase rich artistic traditions, celebrating music, poetry and classical arts that find a natural kinship with Mysuru’s deep love for aesthetics. Equally central is the cherished ritual of community dining. The festival brings with it the unmistakable aroma of steaming khichuri bhog, seasonal vegetarian delicacies and authentic Bengali sweets (mishti).

In true ethos of Sharadotsav, the feast is not merely food; it is an offering of kinship where people from all walks of life, communities and backgrounds sit side by side to celebrate togetherness.

‘Sindoor Khela’

Sindoor Khela of Dashami weaves Bengal’s soul into Mysuru’s fabric. Speaking about the essence of this year’s festival, the organisers shared: “Mysuru is a magnificent cradle of art, history and royal grace. By celebrating Durga Puja here, we are weaving the warmth, rhythm and devotion of Bengal into Mysuru’s majestic fabric. It is not just a festival of homecoming for Maa Durga; it is a shared celebration of diversity, joy and composite culture.”

Bengali Association invites the citizens of Mysuru, families, friends and patrons of culture to visit the pandal at Gokulam, share in the festivities, seek the divine Mother’s blessings and partake in the grand spirit of oneness.

—Mrinmoy Chakraborty, Ex-Vice-President & Member, Bengali Association, Mysuru