Our Events

Kali Puja, also known as Shyama Puja, is a significant Hindu festival primarily celebrated in Eastern India, especially in West Bengal, Assam, Odisha, and parts of Bangladesh. Dedicated to Goddess Kali, the fierce and powerful form of the Divine Mother, the festival coincides with Diwali, the festival of lights, symbolizing the victory of light over darkness. The origins of Kali Puja can be traced back to the 17th century, gaining prominence during the reign of King Krishnachandra of Nadia. It was later popularized by the revered scholar and saint, Ramakrishna Paramahamsa, who saw Kali as the universal mother and a symbol of divine energy. Devotees worship intricately crafted idols of Kali with elaborate rituals, chanting, and offerings to seek her blessings for protection, strength, and the destruction of evil. The celebration is marked by midnight prayers, vibrant decorations, and cultural performances, blending spirituality with rich tradition and community spirit.

Durga Puja is our flagship event, celebrated with grandeur, joy, and devotion. We also observe Laxmi Puja, Diwali/Kali Puja, Saraswati Puja, Holi, and Naba Barsha/Rabindra Jayanti, blending religious reverence with cultural performances that evoke the spirit of our homeland.

NYPA serves as a cherished platform for the Bengali community in New York, fostering cultural pride and emotional connection despite being thousands of miles from home. As one of the earliest Indian socio-cultural organizations in New York State, we strive to preserve India’s—and Bengal’s—rich heritage.

Join us in making NYPA a cornerstone for Bengali cultural and emotional fulfillment in the U.S.