West Bengal CM announces new Durga Puja guidelines and events

West Bengal Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari has announced several new guidelines and events for the upcoming Durga Puja celebrations. To mark the official launch of the festival, the state Tourism Department and the Department of Information and Cultural Affairs will jointly host a mega event at Eden Gardens on Mahalaya, featuring fireworks and drone shows.

As part of the new administration's approach to the festival, the annual carnival established under the previous regime will not be held this year. Instead, the government plans to focus on cultural programs in six cities and a special program in Digha.

New restrictions have been introduced to maintain public order and sanctity. The Chief Minister announced that DJs are prohibited during the puja and immersion processions. Additionally, Maha Ashtami will be observed as a complete dry day across the state, meaning all liquor retail outlets and bars must remain closed with zero alcohol sales permitted.