Lucknow: A 7-foot-tall idol of the goddess draped in a Banarasi saree will be the highlight of the grand pandal of the Shashwat Durga Puja, to be designed as a replica of the 171-year-old Dakshineswar Kali Temple in West Bengal.“This year, we are dedicating the pandal to Goddess Kali, which is why we are giving the pandal the semblance of her temple,” said Sumeet Bhowmick, secretary of the committee.The theme of the celebrations, to be held from Oct 15 to 20, is ‘A Journey to Divine Heritage’. The pandal will incorporate elements inspired by the temple’s distinctive architecture, including its characteristic towers, pillars, intricate detailing and aesthetic illumination and decor.Over 27 years, the committee has experimented with several themes, including Mysore Palace, a Bengal village, a wooden temple of South India, a dhaak-themed pandal and a palki-themed pandal.Visitors will also find stalls selling handicrafts, home décor items, footwear, accessories, toys and games.
