Kolkata: Prime Minister Narendra Modi is likely to visit West Bengal during the upcoming Durga Puja celebrations, although his detailed itinerary is yet to receive official confirmation from the Prime Minister’s Office.
According to reports, the Prime Minister may arrive in Kolkata around Maha Saptami, with his programme expected to extend into Maha Ashtami. A visit to Belur Math is reportedly being considered, where Modi may participate in Kumari Puja and offer Anjali.
The reported schedule comes after a change in plans for the grand Mahalaya programme at Eden Gardens on October 10. Modi was earlier expected to attend the event and inaugurate several Durga Puja celebrations. However, recent reports indicate that Union Home Minister Amit Shah is now likely to represent the Centre at the Eden Gardens programme.
The proposed Mahalaya celebrations are expected to feature a major cultural programme showcasing Bengal’s traditions, including performances, dhak and ululation, as well as other festivities connected with the beginning of Durga Puja.
For Modi, a possible visit to Belur Math would carry additional significance. The Prime Minister has visited the Ramakrishna Math and Ramakrishna Mission headquarters several times, including during his April 2026 visit to West Bengal.
However, the reported Durga Puja itinerary should be treated as tentative until an official schedule is released by the PMO. The official West Bengal Puja calendar lists Maha Saptami on October 18 and Maha Ashtami on October 19, 2026.
Meanwhile, Amit Shah’s expected participation in the Mahalaya programme is set to add a political dimension to an event that is primarily being presented as a celebration of Bengal’s cultural heritage.
