Initially the Puja was organised by affluent families since they had the wherewithal for the venture. However a burgeoning middle class, primarily in Calcutta, during the late 19th and early 20th century wished to observe the Puja. Community or Sarbojanin Pujas were thus conceptualised.

These Pujas are organized by a committee which represents a locality or neighbourhood. They collect funds called "chaanda" through door to door subscriptions, lotteries, concerts etc. These funds are then pooled and used to meet the expenses of pandal construction, idol construction, ceremonies etc. The balance fund is donated to some charitable cause although such a gesture depends on the committee. Corporate sponsorships of the Pujas have gained momentum since the late nineties. Major Pujas in Calcutta now derive almost all of their funds from corporate sponsorships and community fund drives have become a mere formality.

Despite the resources which are employed in the organisation of a Puja, entry of visitors into the Pandal is free of cost. Pujas in Calcutta experiment with innovative concepts every year and various prizes have been instituted for Best Pandal, Best Puja etc.