Mukherjee Family & Bollywood Stars Add Glamour to Day 2 of Mumbai’s Grandest Durga Puja

Mumbai, 29 September 2025 — Day 2 of the 79th North Bombay Sarbojanin Durga Puja was a perfect blend of spirituality and star power, as Bollywood icons Kajol, Rani Mukerji, Tanishaa Mukerji, and Ayan Mukerji joined devotees at SNDT Ground, Juhu. Kajol was accompanied by her children Nysa Devgan and Yug Devgan, adding a warm family presence to the celebrations.

With over 2 lakh devotees thronging the pandal, the atmosphere was one of devotion and grandeur. This year’s pandal is a breathtaking recreation of the Pashupatinath Temple, one of the world’s most sacred shrines of Lord Shiva. Intricately designed by renowned artisans from Kolkata, the pandal has transported visitors into a divine space filled with power, purity, and spiritual energy.

Following its age-old tradition, the Maa Durga Protima was forklifted into the pandal, a unique ritual that marks the ceremonial start of celebrations. The idol’s authentic swaroop has been carefully retained, radiating the same divine aura that has been the hallmark of the North Bombay Puja for decades.

One of the most unique aspects of this puja continues to be its fully air-conditioned bhog hall, the only one of its kind in the world. Devotees relished traditional dishes like khichuri, chholar dal, and classic Bengali sweets in a comfortable, organized setting — making the spiritual experience truly memorable.

Each day of the festival celebrates the nine forms of Maa Durga, from Shailaputri to Siddhidatri, symbolizing strength, wisdom, courage, protection, purity, and blessings. Together, these nine nights form a powerful spiritual journey, culminating in the victory of good over evil on Dashami.

The Mukherjee family, who have been the torchbearers of this tradition for 79 years, were present to personally welcome devotees and guests. This year holds deep sentimental value as the family remembers Rono Mukherjee, Debu Mukherjee, and Shibani Maulik, who have passed away but whose legacy lives on through this iconic celebration.

"North Bombay Durga Puja is a legacy, a responsibility, and an emotion," said Samrat Mukerji, emphasizing how the theme this year seeks to create a space that transcends religious and cultural boundaries.

"For our family, this is a gharua puja — a family puja," added Sharbani Mukherji, highlighting the inclusivity of the event. "Every devotee becomes a part of our extended family, whether by serving bhog, participating in pushpanjali, or simply sharing the joy of togetherness."

With its blend of tradition, faith, and star-studded moments, North Bombay Durga Puja 2025 continues to set the benchmark as Mumbai’s most celebrated and inclusive Durga Puja, uniting Bengalis and non-Bengalis in a shared spirit of devotion and festivity.