Maddox Square Park — Attraction in Kolkata

One of Kolkata's oldest open ground, this park is where the famous Durga Puja of Maddox Square is hosted. This hosts one of the most famous Durga Pujos in Kolkata. It is also a well-known "thek" for young crowd. The park is frequented by all age groups, from young ones playing cricket or soccer and grey ones walking and doing yoga. The Durga puja was started in 1935 by Late Saroj Bagchi at his Ritchie Road residence. The puja was shifted to the Maddox square park the following year. In it's silver jubilee year in 1960…the Goddess was transformed into the traditional 'ekchala' structure with silver colour attire popularly known as'Daker saaj'.In it's golden jubilee year in 1985 the "Daker saaj" was changed from silver to gold in keeping with the jubilee celebrations as remains the same till date. The "Daker saaj" is done by artists from Krishnanagar while the Goddess earlier was curved by President's medal award winner Late Srish Chanda Pal. At present the idol is prepared by Mr.Nikhil Pal in the 'Potuapara' in Kalighat. The Goddess is ornamented by gold jewellery donated by various local residents and samity members. The Pandal is constructed in the traditional format of a 'Nat Mondir' In a more present day context, Ballygunge Durga Puja Samity – Maddox Square remains as one of the hottest destinations for all Bengalis during Durga Puja every year. It is one of the oldest Pujas in the city and is well known the world over.One of the most common question that the members are asked about the Puja is about the 'Theme' which the Samity follows every year.Ballygunge Durga Puja Samity always had, has and will have only one 'theme' – Durga Puja.That remains the focal point and every thing else is built around it. The Samity recognizes the fact that Durga Puja is a one of the biggest festivals in the Bengali calendar and tries to organize it in such a way that only the local residents but also the visitors have a pleasant experience. The puja in itself boasts of a very homely atmosphere in the Pandal and the whole neighborhood joins to experience the puja as if they gather at their own private courtyard. Everyone, regardless of his or her identity gets prasad and bhog during the distribution hours on the Puja days. The Samity has been time and again awarded for excellent atmosphere that is created by the event and that seems to be seconded by the lakhs of visitors every year. As for the visitors, they are not required to queue up as with other places…the park has 6 entry and exit points to facilitate the movement of the visitors. The puja premises are lit up in a way that it facilitates the movement of visitors and those who are present and flickering light arrangements are not used as a rule. They can sit back and relax from pandal hopping and enjoy the great food available on the premises which varies from pizzas to puchkas.They also enjoy the various cultural programmes that are organized by the Samity. In the recent times security has been a concern for all Puja committees.Realeazing the need of the hour, the Samity has started using security cameras at the Puja grounds and deploys 50 additional private security guards to ensure that security is never compromised on the Puja grounds. Ballygunge Durga Puja Samity – Maddox Square remains a popular Puja destination for the young and the old. The residents around the park gather and offer prayers to the Goddess every year in a way that makes this religious community activity a very personal experience. For the visitors at the park every year during the Pujas, Maddox Square remains to be a place where they can chill out for hours, feel at home and still experience the magic known as Maddox...

Durga Puja in Kolkata is synonymous with grandeur, artistry, and community spirit, and Madox Square Puja remains one of the most charming and beloved pandals in the city. Nestled in the heart of Ballygunge, the puja here combines heritage with simplicity, offering a refreshing experience compared to the bustling and theme-driven pandals across town. The first thing that strikes you about Madox Square is its serene setting. The sprawling green park, dotted with trees, provides a natural backdrop that enhances the festive mood. Unlike many other pandals that rely on extravagant themes, Madox Square keeps the approach traditional yet elegant. The idol of Goddess Durga is crafted with classic artistry, radiating divine grace and drawing thousands of visitors each day. The illumination is warm and tasteful, highlighting the idol without overwhelming the natural surroundings. Crowd management at Madox Square is praiseworthy. Even though it attracts a large number of visitors, especially during the evenings, the open-air layout ensures that the pandal never feels suffocating. Families, elderly devotees, and youngsters alike find the atmosphere welcoming. The organizers have also taken care to maintain cleanliness inside the grounds, which adds to the overall comfort of visitors. Another highlight of Madox Square Puja is its inclusiveness. It is not just a puja for worship but also a cultural hub where people come together to celebrate. The evenings are often filled with laughter, conversations, and children running around, giving the place a picnic-like atmosphere. Stalls selling food, toys, and puja items line the surroundings, making it a complete festive outing for visitors. What truly makes Madox Square special is its timeless appeal. While many pujas compete to outdo each other with themes and innovations, this puja stands firm with its traditional charm and community-centric spirit. It reminds us that Durga Puja is not just about decoration but also about togetherness, devotion, and joy. For anyone looking to experience Durga Puja in Kolkata in its most pure, classic, and heartwarming form, a visit to Madox Square is highly recommended. It is a celebration that balances devotion and festivity in the most...

Maddox Square Park, situated in the Ballygunge area of Kolkata, is a cherished urban oasis that offers a tranquil retreat from the city's hustle and bustle. Established in the early 20th century and named after Sir Henry Maddox, a British civil servant, the park has become a beloved landmark for both locals and visitors.

The park's lush greenery, well-maintained lawns, and vibrant flowerbeds create a serene environment ideal for leisurely strolls, morning jogs, or simply unwinding amidst nature. A central pond, home to various aquatic birds, adds to the park's charm, making it a popular spot for birdwatching and photography.

One of Maddox Square Park's most notable features is its role during the Durga Puja festival. The park transforms into a hub of cultural activity, hosting elaborate pandals and attracting thousands of devotees and tourists. The festive decorations and vibrant atmosphere during this period are a sight to behold, reflecting Kolkata's rich cultural heritage.

For families, the park offers playground facilities where children can engage in recreational activities while parents relax nearby. The well-planned layout includes walking paths and ample seating areas, catering to visitors of all ages.

Open daily from 6:00 AM to 9:00 PM, Maddox Square Park is easily accessible via various modes of transportation, including metro, bus, auto-rickshaw, and cycle rickshaw. The nearest metro station is Rabindra Sarovar, from where one can take a short auto-rickshaw ride to the park.

While the park is generally well-maintained, visitors are advised to carry essentials like water and snacks, as on-site facilities may be limited. The entry fee is nominal, making it an affordable destination for daily visits or leisurely outings.

In summary, Maddox Square Park stands as a testament to Kolkata's commitment to preserving green spaces amidst urban development. Its serene ambiance, cultural significance, and community engagement make it a must-visit destination for anyone seeking a peaceful retreat in the heart...