Durga Puja at Times Square

Collected Photo

Durga Puja in the United States has grown from small community gatherings into a vibrant celebration of Bengali heritage. In 1970, Bengali immigrants gathered at Columbia University in New York to celebrate the festival under the East Coast Durga Puja Association, laying the foundation for a lasting tradition.

Over the following decades, Bengali organizations emerged across America. Pragati in Philadelphia and the Bengali Cultural Society of Cleveland were established in 1972, followed by Bay Area Prabasi in California, Kallol in New Jersey and the Bengali Association of Greater Chicago. These organizations have helped preserve Bengali culture, strengthen community bonds and pass traditions to younger generations.

Bangladeshi Hindu Bengalis also established their Durga Puja tradition in New York. Bangladesh Puja Samiti organized its first celebration in Woodside in 1990. Since then, temples, clubs and associations have expanded the festivities, with more than 20 Durga Puja celebrations now held across New York.

On October 10 and 11, 2026, Times Square Durga Puja will bring this heritage to Father Duffy Square under the theme “Mohamilon 2026”. The event will celebrate the goddess Durga’s victory over evil and honour six longstanding Bengali organizations for their contributions.

Beyond religious rituals, music and cultural performances, Mohamilon 2026 will promote friendship, intergenerational connections, cultural understanding and peace, showcasing how diaspora communities preserve their heritage while embracing diversity.