Durga Puja started in Moscow in 1990, with the initiative of the Indian community in Moscow. The idea was to bring the entire Indian community and Indian sub-continent together and to bring a flavour of Puja away from home. Puja is held indoors in a hall, cultural club of Peoples Friendship University in Moscow. The damage to the environment from Durga Visarjan in Moscow is zero, as the idol is not immersed, only Ghat Visarjan takes place at any small pond or flowing water. Around 3000-4000 people attend Puja every year, majority being people from Indian Community in Moscow and some visitors from other cities of Russia, Bangladesh, Nepal and other countries.
Aaratrika, the annual festive magazine is published on this occasion, keeping up with the tradition of Pujobarshiki (special Puja edition) in Bengal. Aaratrika's content is festive with straight-from-the-heart stories reflecting the joyful mood of this time of the year, with a special section for children. The celebration is dotted with numerous cultural activities, which comprise of songs, dances, contests and quiz with a special focus on children.
