Why a ‘mini Dubai’ with Burj Khalifa and Dubai Frame has risen in India’s Kolkata

Dubai: In a fusion of cultures, a township in Kolkata in the eastern Indian state of West Bengal has transformed into a miniature Dubai to celebrate a UNESCO-listed Hindu festival.

Massive replicas of the world’s tallest building Burj Khalifa and other UAE landmarks such as Dubai Frame, Burj Al Arab and Dubai Fountain have risen in the ‘mini Dubai’ in IB Block of Salt Lake or Bidhannagar, one of the satellite towns often referred to as the IT hub of Kolkata.

The project, which was inaugurated on Thursday, is attracting thousands of visitors to the event ‘Dubai Durge Durga’—a Dubai-themed Durga Puja festival pandal. Pandals are temporary, decorative structures built during the Hindu festival of Durga Puja, which celebrates the victory of good over evil.

UNESCO fame

Durga Puja in Kolkata was inscribed on UNESCO’s Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage (ICH) of Humanity in December 2021. It is the first festival from India to achieve the recognition as UNESCO ICH of Humanity.

Kolkata's Durga Puja pandals are renowned for showcasing unique themes and exceptional artistic craftsmanship. Each year, communities across the city compete to create the most innovative and culturally significant installations, drawing millions of visitors during the festival period. Some replicate famous temples, palaces, or global monuments; others showcase social messages or modern art concepts.

Speaking to Gulf News, Dr Subir Choudhury, president of the IB Block Durga Puja Committee, explained the vision behind the Dubai-themed pandal that is quickly becoming the talk of the town during this year's festivities.

"The IB Block Durga Puja Committee is thrilled to have this year's Durga Puja with a spectacular 'Dubai Theme', bringing the glittering skyline, modern architecture, and vibrant energy of Dubai to the heart of Kolkata," Dr Choudhury said.