Bhubaneswar, Oct 2: The Old Station Bazaar Sarbajanin Durga Puja Committee, always in the spotlight for its unique gateways and elaborate decorations, celebrates its 70th year in 2025 with a striking new theme. Since its inception in 1955, the Puja continues to captivate devotees with innovative designs, and this year the concept centres on Ashta Bhairava.
The pandal’s gateway, standing 160 feet long and 40 feet high, portrays Lord Shiva in his fierce form alongside the manifestation of Goddess Kali. Devotees also experience an atmosphere enriched with the chanting of sacred mantras and dramatic decorations. Artistic director Subas Chandra Behera and his team dedicate over two months to creating this masterpiece, which promises to draw thousands of visitors.
Inside the mandap, the decorations take on a remarkable dimension. Alongside artworks inspired by Goddess Durga’s emotions, the ceiling installation presents a mirror-like design that reflects the entire city of Bhubaneswar upside down. This unique artistic touch becomes one of the most talked-about attractions, symbolising a different perspective on the city and its cultural heritage. Silver and gold ornaments, another hallmark of the Puja, continue to dazzle devotees.
The budget for this year’s celebrations is set at ₹60 lakh. The rituals include Charu Anna Bhoga offered to the Goddess on Saptami and Ashtami, and Dahi Pakhala distributed to devotees on Dashami.
To manage the heavy footfall, the committee installs 50 CCTV cameras, directly connected to the Commissionerate Police control room for live surveillance. Nearly 200 male and female volunteers join hands with police officials to regulate traffic and ensure crowd safety.
Inclusive arrangements are also a priority. Wheelchairs are provided for differently-abled and elderly devotees, a breastfeeding room is set up for mothers, and women volunteers play a key role in assisting female visitors.
From Shashthi to Dashami, cultural programmes featuring artists from Bhubaneswar and Cuttack keep the festive spirit alive. On Dashami, the immersion procession takes place with the beats of traditional instruments, maintaining the age-old heritage.
Committee president Ganesh Prasad Sahu, secretary Deepak Kumar Jena, and cultural secretary Ranjit Garabadu highlight that this year’s Puja focuses not only on grandeur but also on inclusivity, safety, and devotion. With the Ashta Bhairava theme, eco-conscious arrangements, and the awe-inspiring upside-down Bhubaneswar ceiling artwork, OldStation Bazaar Puja once again emerges as one of the city’s grandest festive attractions.
