India, Oct. 20 -- Durga Puja celebrations reached a vibrant crescendo across Lucknow on Sunday and Monday, coinciding with Durgashtami and Maha Navami observances. Devotees gathered across prominent neighbourhood pandals including the Bengali Club, Kalibari Ghasiyari Mandi, Rabindrapalli, Model House Park, and Sahara Estates to the beat of dhaks and the sound of conch shells. Festivities were marked by traditional rituals and elaborate artistic themes, from Rabindrapalli's 18-foot eco-friendly idol to Model House Park's Akshardham-themed structure and Gomtinagar's zero-waste Shaaj styling. Morning mangla aartis and spiritual discourses were organized at the Ramakrishna Math, while cultural programs featuring Rabindra Sangeet, traditional dances, and food stalls serving Bengali delicacies drew enthusiastic crowds throughout the two-day stretch. Adding to the festive momentum, Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath declared a statewide public holiday on October 19 for Maha Navami, while major evening events like the Joyratri Dandiya Festival at Centrum Hotel and local Garba grounds further added the city's festive celebrations....