Did Rain Disrupt Durga Puja Celebrations in Kolkata?
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Synopsis
A sudden thunderstorm in Kolkata on Ashtami has disrupted the vibrant Durga Puja celebrations, forcing many to seek shelter. Despite earlier predictions of clear skies, the unexpected downpour raises concerns about continuing festivities. Will the celebrations stay dampened or overcome the weather challenges?
Key Takeaways
- Kolkata experienced a thunderstorm on Ashtami, disrupting celebrations.
- Many pandal hoppers were forced to seek shelter.
- Traffic was significantly affected due to the sudden downpour.
- Heavy rain is forecasted for the following days of Durga Puja.
- The weather may impact festivities across South Bengal.
Kolkata, Sep 30 (NationPress) The city of Kolkata was hit by a fierce thunderstorm on Tuesday, casting a shadow over the festive celebrations on Ashtami, recognized as the most significant day of the five-day Durga Puja festivities.
Following a bright and cheerful Saptami on Monday, a sudden weather shift transformed the skies on Tuesday afternoon, unleashing torrential rain and thunderstorms across various neighborhoods, leaving many streets inundated.
Pandal enthusiasts, who ventured out early, were compelled to seek refuge within puja pavilions.
The unexpected downpour also caused significant traffic disruptions in the city, catching police unprepared.
Despite the Met Office predicting clear skies for Tuesday with rain expected only from Wednesday night, the abrupt weather change indicated additional rainfall across the city later in the day. This forecast suggests that Durga Puja participants will face wet conditions for the remaining festive days.
A Met Department official remarked, "The low-pressure area was anticipated to form and strengthen into a depression by Wednesday. However, this process commenced early, resulting in rainfall and thunderstorms today. Rain and thunderstorms are expected to escalate in the following hours, with heavy rain predicted for Thursday."
Additionally, districts such as East Burdwan, West Burdwan, Birbhum, Murshidabad, Nadia, North 24 Parganas, South 24 Parganas, and Hooghly may also encounter light to moderate rainfall accompanied by thunderstorms. The humidity levels are projected to increase following the rain. A forecast for rain and thunderstorms has been issued for these districts and Kolkata on Wednesday, which marks Navami.
On Dashami (Thursday), heavy rainfall is expected in South 24 Parganas, East Midnapore, North 24 Parganas, and Hooghly districts, including Kolkata. Such weather conditions could further hinder festivities across South Bengal.
Point of View
It’s crucial to understand how weather events can significantly influence cultural festivities. As we celebrate Durga Puja, the unexpected rains remind us of nature's unpredictability. While the spirit of the festival remains strong, such disruptions can affect community engagement and the overall festive atmosphere. NationPress stands committed to keeping you informed.
NationPress
30/09/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What caused the thunderstorm in Kolkata during Durga Puja?
The thunderstorm was triggered by an unexpected low-pressure area that intensified earlier than forecasted, leading to heavy rain and thunderstorms.
How does rain impact Durga Puja celebrations?
Rain can hinder pandal hopping, cause traffic disruptions, and may dampen the festive atmosphere, prompting attendees to seek shelter.
What is the forecast for the rest of the Durga Puja celebrations?
Further rain and thunderstorms are expected throughout the rest of the festive days, particularly on Dashami.
