Around 50 Durga Puja pandals in Dimapur compete on themes, with a focus on sustainability and environmental protection
More than 50 pandals come under the Hindu Seva Samiti’s scrutiny as organisers promote communal harmony and eco-friendly celebrations
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DIMAPUR — With Durga Puja festivities gripping Dimapur, preparations are in full swing as the Bengali community, along with people from other communities, comes together to celebrate the festival.
In Dimapur, the commercial hub of Nagaland, around 50 pandals have been set up across various parts of the city.
In neighbouring Chümoukedima district, four pandals have been erected—two in Chümoukedima town, one at the Police Complex and another at 6th Mile.
As in previous years, several Puja committees have adopted themes ranging from traditional temples to eco-friendly designs.
The Hindu Seva Samiti, which organises an annual pandal competition, has been evaluating the pandals on various criteria, with particular emphasis on environmental sustainability.
Also read: Hindu Seva Samiti issues guidelines for Durga Puja in Dimapur
On Sunday, October 18, judges visited more than 50 pandals as part of the competition.
“We want to keep the celebration clean, safe and inclusive,” a committee member said, adding that Durga Puja in Dimapur had become a symbol of communal harmony, with the Naga community, shopkeepers, police and district administration actively cooperating in the preparations and festivities.
The Hindu Seva Samiti has also issued guidelines for Puja committees across the city, urging them to strictly adhere to environmental regulations, public safety measures and discipline during the celebrations and idol immersion.
The festivities will culminate on Vijayadashami on October 21, with idol immersion and Sindur Khela.
The Samiti has urged Puja committees to refrain from using or carrying materials that could pollute rivers and to comply with the guidelines of the Nagaland Pollution Control Board to help keep the Dhansiri River clean.