Bhubaneswar Durga Puja started by Muslim friend unites four faiths
A Chandrasekharpur puja begun on Sheikh Shajahan's suggestion in 2008 is run with help from Hindu, Muslim and Christian residents.
People of four faiths came together for Durga Puja at District Centre in Chandrasekharpur, Bhubaneswar, Odisha, in October 2026. The puja began in 2008 after a Muslim friend, Sheikh Shajahan, suggested it. The kalash that starts the worship still comes from his home, and the priests stay there. Dr Mamata Mohanty, a Christian gynaecologist, helps oversee preparations. The pandal gate carries symbols of Hinduism, Islam, Sikhism and Christianity, and a 15-foot clay idol stands inside.
- Where
- District Centre, Chandrasekharpur, Bhubaneswar, Odisha
- When
- October 2026 (puja began in 2008)
- Who
- Sheikh Shajahan, Dr Mamata Mohanty, District Centre Owners' Association Durga Puja Committee
- Source
- ETV Bharat
