Archive · 7 Aug 2025
Durga Puja Preview Show Faces Fragmentation as Organizers Go Solo
A preview show that shows off Durga Puja art is facing some changes.
Some groups that put on the Puja are deciding to do their own previews, separate from the main show called MassArt.
MassArt's show gives tours before the big Puja festival and charges money.
These Puja groups want to make more money themselves and offer visitors a cheaper way to see the Pujas.
They believe their own shows will be popular and attract visitors.
This means the main show now has competition, but the original organizers are not too worried as they are trying to promote the art itself.
Some Durga Puja organizers are breaking away from MassArt's preview show to launch their own.
MassArt's preview show has been running since 2022, offering guided tours before Mahalaya.
Breakaway Pujas include Dum Dum Park Bharat Chakra, Ballygunge Cultural Association (BCA), and Kendua Shanti Sangha.
These Pujas will host their own previews, some coinciding with the MassArt show dates.
The breakaway Pujas believe they can profit more and offer visitors a more economical choice.
- Who
- Durga Puja organizers, MassArt, and visitors interested in the preview shows.
- What
- Durga Puja organizers are creating their own preview shows separate from MassArt's initiative.
- When
- The preview shows are happening before Mahalaya, with some overlapping dates.
- Where
- Kolkata, India
- Why
- Breakaway Puja organizers aim to increase profits and give visitors a more economical choice.
MassArt's View
Breakaway Pujas' View
Primary Motivation
MassArt's View
Focus on promoting Durga Puja art on a global stage.
Breakaway Pujas' View
Focus on maximizing profits and individual Puja identity.
- Preview Show Organizer
- MassArt
- Breakaway Pujas
- Dum Dum Park Bharat Chakra, Ballygunge Cultural Association (BCA), Kendua Shanti Sangha
- MassArt Start Year
- 2022
- BCA Preview cost
- ₹100 (individual), ₹150 (couple), ₹300 (family)
- Bharat Chakra's Year
- Silver jubilee