Important Information

This year, Aantarik returns with immense gratitude and enthusiasm to bring 'Durga Puja 2026' home to you, set amidst the tranquil, green beauty of Chelsfield Village Hall. More than just a festival, this is a homecoming—a sacred space crafted by our community, where every smile and every presence adds to the light of our uniquely designed mandap (perhaps one of the very few in the world to showcase Jamini Roy art all around the Goddess).

Though time flows on, kids become young adults, new-born babies of the community start to come in as toddlers, and people come and go, our core remains untouched. Expect the same familiar, heartfelt atmosphere, the sacred rhythms, and the unmistakable warmth that you have come to love through our Saraswati Puja, Anandamela, and other community events. Come, let us build even more memories together here in Orpington.

You are cordially invited to step away from the bustle of life and enter three days of divine peace. Gather Maa’s blessings alongside us as we celebrate not just a festival, but our shared humanity—bound by love, rich in diversity, and gathered under one sky on this beautiful planet.

As usual there is no entry fee. Visitor donations are very welcome as three days of Durga Puja, Prasad Meals, and the culturals involve significant costs and the event is mostly visitor sponsored.

Key Facts to Note:

• Venue: Chelsfield Village Hall, Orpington, BR6 7RL

• Anandamela:  4th  October (  Sunday  )  12 pm  to  3 pm, Chelsfield Village Hall, Orpington, BR6 7RL

• Puja  Dates: 17th,  18th,  19th of October ( Saturday, Sunday, Monday)

• Time:- Sat: 4 pm to 8:30 pm; Sun:  11 am to 8:30 pm; Mon: 11 am to 4 pm

We welcome inputs, suggestions, and participation, no matter who you are, where you live, and what you do. Please come forward if you want to support this humanitarian and social integration initiative in any way. 

Pre-Registration Form: ( Not mandatory but preferred for your own convenience and peace of mind) and it helps us in avoiding food waste/ shortage. Link:  https://shorturl.at/YBnS1

Also note that registrations close at midnight on the day before. So, if you want to visit on Sunday you should register by Sat night if spaces still available.

If you are a business: This event offers you a one of a kind opportunity to reach out to hundreds of SE London and Kent residents at one go.  Attractive sponsorship opportunities are available. Please email  aantarikbab@gmail.com if interested to know more.

Note: Durga Puja has been included in UNESCO's 2020 global list of cultural institutions/phenomena. "Yoga' from India is one such cultural institution that is already in the official list.