Durga Puja in Lucknow has grown into a celebration that brings together communities, cultures, and generations. While the city may be better known for its Nawabi tehzeeb and Islamic architecture, it also houses a strong Bengali diaspora that has nurtured the tradition of Durga Puja for decades. Among the most celebrated of these is the Latouche Road Puja Sangsad Society (LRPSS) — a name synonymous with grandeur, artistry, and devotion since 1942.

LRPSS has a history of thematic pandals (temporary structures) which reimagine mythological, cultural, or social themes in creative ways:

The 84th celebration (Sept 28 – Oct 2) theme is inspired by the Kumbh Mela at Prayagraj, with special focus on the 13 major akharas that participate in the Shahi Snan (royal bath). Portraits, maths (monasteries), maps or recreations of the mela’s landscape, and honours to the akhara hierarchy (Acharya, Mahamandaleshwar, Shrimahant) are part of the display.

Artisans from West Bengal have created intricate structures, while local volunteers helped with lighting and stagecraft. By bringing themes like Kumbh to Lucknow, LRPSS not only showcases devotion but also educates visitors about India’s spiritual diversity.

On peak evenings, the pandal attracts 15,000–20,000 visitors daily. Many come just for the experience — the ambience of dhunuchi naach, the aroma of bhog, the dazzling illumination, and the chance to witness artistry up close.

As LRPSS celebrates its 84th year, the society remains a symbol of devotion meeting imagination. For Lucknow, it’s not just another puja — it is a landmark cultural event, where Nawabi tehzeeb meets Bengali shakti worship, creating a celebration that is uniquely inclusive, artistic, and rooted in tradition.

This year’s Kumbh Mela-inspired pandal is expected to once again set benchmarks, proving why Latouche Road Puja Sangsad Society continues to be the heart of Durga Puja in Lucknow.