It's a glitzy affair this Durga puja in the city with Bollywood celebrities upping the glam quotient to mark the gala five day festivities.

Be it a promotional event or inaugurating a puja pandal, Kolkata is playing the host to director Mahesh Bhatt, critically-acclaimed actor Nawazuddin Siddiqui and the energetic Govinda.

Bhatt, who came to cut the ribbons for a puja marquee in the satellite township of Salt Lake Thursday, remarked that despite the drums and songs, he found a sense of tranquility amid all the celebrations.

The marquee is themed on the Bon Bibi legend of Sunderbans (guardian of the forest) where the protector goddess Bon Bibi, worshipped by honey collectors and wood cutters, offers a safe passage into the dense mangroves from the Royal Bengal tigers.

"I keep coming to Kolkata off and on but this is the first time I am witnessing the Durga Puja. This presents such unique chance for people irrespective of caste and creed to come together," said Bhatt at the opening ceremony.

Talking about his forthcoming films "Anwar Ka Ajab Kissa" and "Mountain Man", Nawazuddin fondly recalled his first shot from "Kahaani" that catapulted him into the limelight.


"My first scene of the film was the Durga Puja shot...it is a very special moment. I feel connected to Bengal because of this film," said the actor.

Actor Govinda will be seen shaking a leg at the Dandiya Mela Friday organised by the NGO National Institute of Professionals (NIP). Making it an inclusive affair, there will be a special stage for the differently abled.

The magic of Gujarat will be recreated with decor and traditional haats of the region at the Milan Mela grounds here.

Actress Mahima Chaudhary was also among the guests of honour at a pandal.