For over three decades, ABKC Sangam has kept the spirit of Durga Puja alive in the heart of the Midwest. This October, the organization returns to the Camelot Ballroom, 6635 W 151st St, Overland Park, KS 66223 for Sangam Durgotsab 2026, a three-day celebration from Friday, October 16 through Sunday, October 18 that draws families from across Kansas City, Wichita, Topeka, and beyond. What began as a small community gathering in 1995 has grown into the largest Bengali festival of the year in Kansas, a testament to the devotion and cultural pride of the region’s Bengali diaspora. As President Arup Majumdar shares, organizing Durga Puja is far more than a responsibility. It is a privilege and an opportunity to offer seva at Maa Durga’s divine feet. Full details are on the official ABKC Sangam Durga Puja page.
Friday, October 16 (Inauguration): The festival opens at 6:00 pm with Shasthi rituals, including Devir Bodhon, Adhibas, Nabapatrika (Kolabou) snan, and Ghatsthapan. For the first time in the celebration’s history, the inauguration will feature both the American and Indian national anthems, honoring the community’s dual heritage, along with a ceremonial lighting of the diya by the chief guest. Garba Night begins at 7:00 pm, bringing Navratri energy to the ballroom, and dinner follows at 7:30 pm. The evening ends at 8:00 pm with a Bollywood Musical Extravaganza featuring Manasi Ghosh, the celebrated Indian Idol winner known for her powerful stage presence.
Saturday, October 17: The morning begins at 9:30 am with Saptami, including Mahadevi Puja, Pushpanjali and Shantijal, and prasad distribution, followed by lunch (Astamir Bhog) at 1:30 pm. The evening program starts at 6:00 pm with Ashtami and Navami observances: Arati, Chatushashti Yogini and Nabadurga Puja, Sandhi Arati, and Navami Puja. A community talent showcase follows at 7:00 pm, then dinner at 8:00 pm and a live performance by Krosswindz at 8:30 pm.
Sunday, October 18: Dashami begins at 10:00 am with the Vedic Homa, Dashami Puja and rituals, Pushpanjali and Dakshinanta, Ghat Sanchalan, and Visarjan and Shantijal. Sindur Khela, the joyful vermilion exchange that marks Maa Durga’s farewell, follows at 12:00 pm, with lunch at 1:00 pm. The evening opens at 6:00 pm with Vijaya Sammelani, followed by another community talent showcase at 7:00 pm, dinner at 8:00 pm, and a closing performance by Subhamita Banerjee at 8:30 pm.
Organizers note that the schedule is tentative and that food menus for all three days will be announced soon. Whether you’re a longtime devotee, a family celebrating Bengali heritage, or simply curious about this cultural festival, Sangam Durgotsab welcomes everyone. Volunteers, sponsors, and vendors are also invited to take part. Learn more and register on the ABKC Sangam website and get ready for an October to remember.
ABKC Sangam is a KCdesi Community Partner. Explore more community celebrations in our Events category.
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Since 2001, KCdesi.com has been the online home of Kansas City’s South Asian community. It connects families with the festivals, cultural organizations, local businesses, and neighbors that shape desi life across the metro. From Durga Puja and Navratri to Diwali and beyond, KCdesi covers the celebrations that bring our community together and helps newcomers and longtime residents alike stay connected to their roots while building their lives in the heartland. Subscribe to desiPulse, our free newsletter, to get the latest community news and events in your inbox.
