Times Square Durga Utsav Draws Crowds Despite Bad Weather, Honours Six US Organisations
The second Times Square Durga Utsav brought Bengali expatriates together in New York for religious rituals, music and dance despite adverse weather. Six US organisations were honoured for preserving Bengali culture for more than five decades.
The second Times Square Durga Utsav brought Bengali culture and traditions to New York on October 10–11, attracting devotees, expatriates and international visitors despite adverse weather.
Held at Father Duffy Square, the two-day festival featured religious rituals, Mahalaya observances, music, dance and cultural performances. Organised by the Times Square Durga Utsav Association, the event also created a gathering place for Bengali communities travelling from different parts of the United States.
Performances included the Dash Mahavidya dance drama and musical presentations by Mekhla Dasgupta and Deyashini Roy. Children and young people also participated, showcasing Bengali music, language and traditions.
Attendees included India's Consul General in New York, Binaya Pradhan, along with other guests and representatives. Organisers said the festival also received greetings from Zohran Mamdani.
Six US organisations honoured
A key highlight was the recognition of six organisations that have organised Durga Puja in the United States for at least 50 years. They were Bay Area Prabasi Inc. in California, the Bengali Association of Greater Chicago in Illinois, the Bengali Cultural Society in Ohio, the East Coast Durga Puja Association in New York, Kallol in New Jersey and Pragati in Pennsylvania.
The honours recognised their efforts to preserve Bengali traditions and pass cultural heritage on to younger generations.
Association president Shashadhar Hawladar and general secretary Nirupama Saha thanked volunteers, participants and supporters for helping the festival succeed despite difficult weather conditions.
The celebration combined worship, artistic performances and community participation, highlighting the enduring connection between Bengali expatriates and their cultural roots.
