US Ambassador Eric Garcetti Indulges in Durga Puja Festivities; Performs Dhunuchi Naach in CR Park’s Pandal | WATCH – News18

US Ambassador to India Eric Garcetti in his festive spirit went pandal hopping to celebrate Durga Puja. Garcetti visited one of the most famous pandals in Delhi’s Chittaranjan Park, where he indulged in rituals, customs and Bengali street food.

The US Ambassador also performed Dhunuchi Naach, which is performed on the last three days of Durga Puja during the evening aarti in dedication to Goddess Durga. Garcetti posted shared a video of his “incredible time” on the microblogging site X.

The US Envoy — in the clip — is seen receiving a warm welcome at the Pandal in a traditional manner, following which he performs aarti in front of the Goddess’ idol.

Garcetti even dances with people going around in a circle, following which he performs the Dhunuchi Naach — an essential part of Durga Puja festivities — with an earthen pot in his mouth. Excited by the celebrations, Garcetti is seen clicking pictures as kids performed on the stage and later goes on to meet them, giving them hi-fi(s).

The US Envoy goes around the stalls to enjoy different Bengali delicacies, including the famous Jhal Muri, the taste of which gets him to say “perfect”. Garcetti gives a finish touch to his trip by feasting on biryani, fish and some traditional dessert.

In his post on X, Garcetti wrote, “Shubho Pujo, everyone! I had an incredible time pandal hopping in CR Park in Delhi, participating in the cultural festivities and of course, tasting some amazing Pujo food! As I continue to experience different celebrations across India, I remain in awe of @IncredibleIndia’s amazing cultural diversity.”

His post has received over 200,000 views and has gotten more than 9,000 likes.

Several users commented on Garcetti’s post. “Good to see you enjoying Durga Pujo festivities,” one of the users wrote.

Another user invited him to visit Kolkata for next year’s festivities, calling the city “home to Durga Pujas”.

“It’s takes a very large and loving heart to be open to diverse cultures and to accept the differences. Thank you for spreading love,” another user commented.

Garcetti’s participation in the celebrations has garnered a lot of appreciation among the people.

The Durga Puja festivities began on October 15 across the nation. Several pandals, fairs and quaint little stalls have been set up in states like Kolkata, Delhi, Bombay, where the festival is celebrated on larger scale. CR Park’s pandal has been an iconic one in the national capital, which is a must visit for everyone, especially Bengalis.

The CR Park pandal — with a different theme every year — bustles with activities during the puja and the committee ensures a lineup of events that heighten the festive spirit.