🏛️ Kallol of New Jersey — History & Background
Kallol of New Jersey was founded on April 13, 1975, by 24 Bengali immigrants from Kolkata, and was formally incorporated in the State of New Jersey that July. In 1977, Kallol started its first Durga Puja, named “New Jersey Durga Puja,” opening it to the broader Bengali and Indian diaspora rather than keeping it members-only. The organization obtained federal tax-exempt status in 1979 and celebrated its Golden Jubilee (50th anniversary) in 2025 with roughly 600 members. In 2018, Kallol acquired its own property — the Kallol Club House — reportedly the first socio-cultural clubhouse owned by a Bengali organization in the United States.
ℹ️ This history is drawn from published sources and general reporting — confirm specifics with Kallol of New Jersey directly for anything you plan to rely on. Kallol's Durga Puja has run continuously since 1977 — among the longest-running community Durga Pujas in the US.
📋 Key Information
- Name: Kallol of New Jersey
- Location: Edison, New Jersey, USA
- Notable for: One of the oldest and largest Bengali associations in the US — started “New Jersey Durga Puja” in 1977
🗓️ Durga Puja 2026 Dates
*Many US community Durga Puja celebrations are held on the nearest weekend to the actual tithi dates, rather than on the exact weekdays, since most attendees have work or school commitments. Always confirm the exact 2026 dates with the organizing committee.