Chennai’s Must-Visit Durga Puja Pandals 2025 — The Ultimate Pandal-Hopper’s Guide

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by

Himanshu
in

Durga Puja in Chennai is more than a festival; it’s a cultural extravaganza where traditions from Bengal beautifully blend with Tamil hospitality. Every year, the city comes alive with vibrant pandals, cultural performances, and community feasts that attract both Bengalis and non-Bengalis alike.

If you’re planning to explore the Durga Puja pandals in Chennai in 2025, here’s a detailed guide covering the top 10 pandals, their locations, special attractions, and their popularity over the years.

Quick Overview of Famous Pandals in Chennai

#Pandal / CommitteeLocationHighlight
1The Bengal AssociationGiri Road, T. NagarHistoric and grand carnival atmosphere
2South Madras Cultural Association (SMCA)Nandanam / Besant NagarCultural performances & themed decorations
3Dakshin Chennai Prabasi Cultural Association (DCPCA)Navalur / OMRPopular among IT crowd with food stalls
4Dakshini SocietyAnna NagarTraditional bhog & community feel
5Madras Kali BariWest MambalamTemple-rooted rituals and devotional vibe
6OMR Bengali Milon Songho (OBMS)Sholinganallur (OMR)Creative themed pandals with “Daker Saaj”
7Bengali Sangha, AvadiAvadi (Shanthi Nagar)Family-oriented suburban puja
8Bengal Association CarnivalBesant Nagar / T. NagarFamous Vijayadashami procession and carnival
9Neighborhood & Resident-Club PujasSaligramam / KodambakkamSmall but artistic community pandals
10Thematic Pop-up PujasVarious rotating venuesInnovative new-age cultural themes

Detailed List of 10 Must-Visit Pandals in Chennai 2025

1. The Bengal Association, Giri Road (T. Nagar)

  • Location: 29 Giri Road, T. Nagar
  • Special Attraction: Chennai’s oldest and most celebrated puja. Known for its grandeur, cultural programs, and massive crowds, this pandal sets the benchmark for all others. The Vijayadashami carnival is its highlight.
  • Why Visit: To experience the heart of Durga Puja in Chennai with authentic rituals and festivities.

2. South Madras Cultural Association (SMCA), Nandanam / Besant Nagar

  • Location: Mantra Gardens, Nandanam / Besant Nagar areas
  • Special Attraction: Themed pandals with large cultural performances, professional shows, and beautifully organized sandhya aarti.
  • Why Visit: Perfect for cultural enthusiasts and those who enjoy stage performances along with puja rituals.

3. Dakshin Chennai Prabasi Cultural Association (DCPCA), OMR

  • Location: Navalur / Sholinganallur stretch of OMR
  • Special Attraction: Popular among IT professionals, this puja features big food courts, workshops, and family-friendly activities.
  • Why Visit: Ideal for those living in or around OMR who want both festive food and entertainment in one place.

4. Dakshini Society, Anna Nagar

  • Location: BSNL & Postal Community Hall, Anna Nagar
  • Special Attraction: Traditional bhog distribution, community-driven performances, and a homely atmosphere.
  • Why Visit: Perfect for those who prefer authentic rituals in a less crowded setting.

5. Madras Kali Bari, West Mambalam

  • Location: Umapathy Street Extension, West Mambalam
  • Special Attraction: A temple-based puja with devotional ambience, rituals, and disciplined darshan.
  • Why Visit: Best for devotees who want a more spiritual experience than a carnival atmosphere.

6. OMR Bengali Milon Songho (OBMS), Sholinganallur

  • Location: Umadri Mahal, Sholinganallur (OMR)
  • Special Attraction: Known for its themed decorations, especially traditional Daker Saaj and vibrant lighting. Includes modern cultural programs and large Bengali food stalls.
  • Why Visit: To enjoy innovative pandal themes and sample Kolkata-style street food.

7. Bengali Sangha, Avadi

  • Location: Shanthi Nagar, Avadi
  • Special Attraction: One of Chennai’s older suburban pujas. Offers authentic rituals, cultural programs, and family-friendly environment.
  • Why Visit: A good option for those living outside the city centre who still want to soak in festive vibes.

8. Bengal Association Carnival, Besant Nagar

  • Location: Besant Nagar (linked to Giri Road’s Bengal Association)
  • Special Attraction: Vijayadashami immersion procession and carnival, drawing crowds from across the city.
  • Why Visit: Witness the final day celebrations with grandeur, music, and community spirit.

9. Neighborhood Pujas (Saligramam, Kodambakkam, Nungambakkam)

  • Location: Multiple residential club venues across the city
  • Special Attraction: Smaller pandals with creative themes, friendly community vibes, and excellent food stalls.
  • Why Visit: Great if you prefer intimate pandals and want to explore hidden gems in the city.

10. Thematic Pop-Up Pujas (Rotating Venues)

  • Location: Various new venues each year
  • Special Attraction: Every year, new committees set up pujas with social themes, eco-friendly idols, and innovative cultural fusions.
  • Why Visit: Ideal for visitors who enjoy exploring fresh and experimental puja themes.

Tips for Pandal Hopping in Chennai 2025

  1. Best Time to Visit: Evenings are best for lights and cultural events, mornings for peaceful darshan and bhog.
  2. Transport: Use metro, autos, or cabs. Expect heavy traffic in Besant Nagar, T. Nagar, and OMR.
  3. Food Guide: Don’t miss the bhog on Ashtami and Navami. Look out for stalls serving phuchka, rolls, and Bengali sweets.
  4. Photography: Allowed in most pandals, but avoid flash during aarti.
  5. Crowds: Peak crowds gather on Ashtami and Vijayadashami. For a calmer experience, visit on Saptami.

Suggested One-Day Itinerary

  • Morning: Start with Madras Kali Bari for a peaceful temple visit.
  • Afternoon: Head to Dakshini Society for bhog.
  • Evening: Move to SMCA for performances.
  • Night: End at The Bengal Association in T. Nagar to experience the carnival-like energy.

Disclaimer

This blog is for informational purposes only. Durga Puja dates, venues, and timings are subject to change each year. Visitors are advised to confirm with the respective puja committees before planning their trip.