Hyderabad, Telangana: The Bengali community of Hyderabad is set to celebrate one of its most awaited annual cultural festivals — the 47th year of Kali Puja, organized by Uttarayan. Over nearly five decades, this event has grown from a small community gathering to one of the most prominent and vibrant cultural celebrations in the city, attracting thousands of visitors from all walks of life.
This year, the festivities will be held on October 19, 20 & 21 at MCH Ground, Ameerpet, with elaborate rituals, mesmerizing cultural performances, food stalls, and artistic installations celebrating Bengal’s deep-rooted traditions.
Distinguished Guests to Grace the Occasion
The celebration will be inaugurated in the presence of esteemed dignitaries.
- Chief Guest: Jupally Krishna Rao, Hon’ble Minister of Prohibition & Excise, Tourism & Culture, Archaeology, Government of Telangana.
- Guest of Honour: Vikas Raj, IAS, Principal Chief Secretary, Transport, Roads and Buildings, Government of Telangana.
Their presence underscores the cultural harmony of Hyderabad and the growing importance of community-driven festivals in the city’s social fabric.
A Celebration Rooted in Culture and Devotion
Kali Puja is observed by Bengalis across the world during the festival of lights, coinciding with Diwali. For the Bengali community, Diwali is synonymous with worshipping Goddess Kali — the symbol of power, protection, and victory of good over evil. In Hyderabad, Uttarayan’s Kali Puja is regarded as the largest and most prominent Bengali puja in the city.
What began 47 years ago with a small group of Bengali settlers has now evolved into a grand celebration that attracts more than 10,000 visitors each day. The pandal, meticulously designed and artistically decorated, becomes the cultural nucleus of the festival.
From Bhut Chaturdashi to the Visarjan, the three-day event is marked by rituals steeped in tradition. Uniquely, the worship of Dakshina Kali is conducted entirely by the women members of Uttarayan, who perform every aspect of the puja — from Pran Pratishtha (idol installation) to Bhog preparation and distribution.
Cultural Programmes & Performances
A hallmark of the celebration is its vibrant cultural calendar.
- Anondomela: A lively fair organized for homemakers showcasing their culinary and creative skills.
- Quiz Competitions: To engage and inspire the younger generation.
- Art & Craft Competitions: Encouraging creativity among school children.
- Uttarayan Choir: Known for its talented vocalists, musicians, reciters, and dancers, the choir performs on one of the evenings, bringing alive the spirit of Bengal.
This year, renowned vocalists Ankita Basu and Adriz Ghosh will also perform, adding a touch of professional musical excellence to the festivities.
Honouring Excellence in the Community
As part of its annual tradition, Uttarayan also honours distinguished individuals from Hyderabad’s Bengali community through the titles of “Sera Bangali” (Best Bengali) and “Sera Medha” (Best Talent), recognizing their contributions to society, culture, education, and community service.
Beyond Festivity: A Commitment to Society
Uttarayan’s activities extend far beyond cultural celebrations. For over two decades, the organization has actively engaged in philanthropic work, including supporting orphanages, old age homes, and various social causes.
Additionally, Uttarayan organizes “Parvani”, a cultural event that brings leading Bengali vocalists and theatre groups from Kolkata and other parts of India to Hyderabad. This effort has played a pivotal role in preserving and promoting Bengali culture in Telangana’s cosmopolitan landscape.
A Celebration for All
The Kali Puja festival at Ameerpet has become a symbol of cultural unity, attracting not only Bengalis but also people from different communities across Hyderabad. The well-planned venue includes a grand cultural stage, an impressively crafted pandal, nearly two dozen food and corporate stalls, and a spacious parking area to accommodate the thousands who visit.
Media houses are warmly invited to cover this landmark celebration, which reflects how the Bengali diaspora has enriched Hyderabad’s multicultural ethos through art, faith, and community participation.
📅 Event Dates: October 19, 20 & 21, 2025
📍 Venue: MCH Ground, Ameerpet, Hyderabad