As the festive season approaches, London’s Bengali community is preparing for one of the largest Durga Puja celebrations outside India. From 16-18th October, London Sharadotsav will return to Gunnersbury Sports Club, bringing together thousands of devotees, families and cultural enthusiasts for three days of worship, culture and community spirit. Over the years, London Sharadotsav has grown into one of Europe’s most prominent Bengali festivals, offering expatriate Bengalis an opportunity to reconnect with their heritage while introducing younger generations to the customs and traditions of Durga Puja. The festival recreates the atmosphere of a traditional Bengali celebration through its Thakur Dalan, cultural stage and community spaces, transforming a corner of West London into a vibrant slice of Bengal.

The three days main programme will feature all major Durga Puja rituals, from Bodhan and Pushpanjali to Arati and Dhunuchi Naach, conducted according to traditional customs. Beyond the religious observances, the event has become a vital cultural gathering for the Bengali diaspora, attracting visitors from across the UK and Europe. A special highlight this year will be the celebration of 100 years of Doordarshan, India’s iconic public broadcaster. Marking the milestone, organisers have planned a series of cultural programmes reflecting the broadcaster’s contribution to Indian entertainment, storytelling and cultural life.

Among the key attractions will be a special presentation of Thakumar Jhuli, the beloved collection of Bengali folk tales that has captivated generations of audiences. Visitors can also enjoy popular programmes such as London-e Gappo and Gappo Mir-er Thek, combining storytelling, conversation and nostalgia. The festival will feature performances by artists and cultural personalities from India and the UK, showcasing music, theatre and contemporary Bengali culture. Organisers say the aim is to create an event that celebrates both tradition and the evolving identity of the global Bengali community.

Behind the festival is a dedicated team of organisers and volunteers, including Suranjan Som, Sourav Niyogi and Anamika, whose efforts have helped establish London Sharadotsav as a major fixture on the British Bengali cultural calendar.

Supported by leading organisations including HDFC Bank, State Bank of India (SBI), Woodlands Hospital, Adamas Knowledge City and Haldiram's, this year's festival is expected to attract a large and diverse audience. 

As the sound of the dhak echoes across Gunnersbury Park and the glow of evening Arati lights up the festival grounds, London Sharadotsav will once again remind visitors that Durga Puja is more than a festival. It is a celebration of identity, culture and belonging, bringing a piece of Bengal to the heart of London.