Durga Puja 2026: Rourkela Pandals to Showcase Jagannath’s Suna Besha and Dantewada’s Rani Mahal
Rourkela, Oct 10 (UDN): Preparations for Durga Puja are gathering momentum across Rourkela, with artisans and puja committees working against the clock to create spectacular pandals for this year’s celebrations. Among the major attractions, Sector 7 will feature an entrance inspired by Lord Jagannath’s Suna Besha, while Sector 9 is set to recreate the architectural grandeur of Dantewada’s Rani Mahal.
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The two installations are expected to draw devotees and visitors with their distinctive designs, elaborate craftsmanship and impressive dimensions, adding to the festive atmosphere in Odisha’s Steel City.
Sector 7 to Present a Grand Tribute to Lord Jagannath’s Suna Besha
The Sector 7 Durga Puja committee is preparing an elaborate entrance structure inspired by Lord Jagannath’s Suna Besha, the revered golden attire of the deity. The design aims to bring the splendour of this iconic religious tradition to the city’s Durga Puja celebrations.
Measuring approximately 45 feet in height and 120 feet in width, the structure is expected to make a striking impression on visitors. Organisers plan to use around 4,000 bamboo poles, 300 cubic feet of timber and more than 1,000 pieces of cloth to bring the ambitious design to life.
More than 15 artisans are engaged in the construction, working long hours to complete the intricate structure before the festivities begin.
Beyond the main attraction, the committee is also planning a meena bazaar to offer visitors an additional festive experience. Devotees will be able to seek the blessings of Goddess Durga while exploring the surrounding attractions.
Sector 9 to Recreate the Heritage of Dantewada’s Rani Mahal
At Sector 9, the Durga Puja committee is preparing a grand entrance inspired by Dantewada’s Rani Mahal, bringing a distinctive architectural theme to its 35th year of celebrations.
The proposed structure will stand 80 feet tall and span 90 feet in width. Its construction involves approximately 300 bamboo poles, 600 cubic feet of timber and more than 1,500 metres of cloth.
Over 20 artisans are working on the installation, carefully shaping the materials to recreate the grandeur of the chosen design. The scale of the project is expected to make the entrance a prominent attraction during the celebrations.
Meanwhile, the clay idol of Goddess Durga is nearing completion, marking another important milestone in the committee’s preparations.
Artisans Race Against Time Ahead of the Festivities
With Durga Puja approaching, workers at both Sector 7 and Sector 9 are focused on completing their projects within the stipulated time. From assembling the large bamboo frameworks to adding decorative elements and finishing the idols, every stage requires careful planning and coordinated effort.
The contrasting themes promise to give visitors two distinctive experiences: the spiritual splendour of Lord Jagannath’s golden attire at Sector 7 and the architectural magnificence of Rani Mahal at Sector 9.
As the final preparations continue, Rourkela is gearing up for a vibrant celebration, with the two pandals poised to become notable highlights of the city’s Durga Puja festivities.