like every other year, this year too the puja committees planned innovative ways to welcome the deity to her maternal home. Apart from eco-friendly pavilions and pandals designed like a kalash and Natya Mandir, there is a lot for devotees to discover
It has been the homecoming most awaited. She is clad in the most expensive brocade and dazzling jewels. Her face gleams with joy and her kohl-filled eyes seem to be showering blessings on everyone who stands in front of her, hands folded and head bowed in reverence. While we saw a five-year-old narrating her day’s incident to the devi like she was talking to a neighbourhood friend, there were teenagers who clicked selfies with the Goddess. And elders shared their joys and sorrows with her like they do with a family member who’s returned home after ages. The deity seemed to be enjoying these secret conversations amidst distractions — the sound of dhak and chattering of people around her.
like every year, over hundreds of people have been thronging the Durga Puja pandals across the city. Each puja committee has come up with interesting ideas and themes to stand out. Interestingly, even the idols of the deity are as per the theme of the pandal. For instance, in one of the pandals the goddess poses as a dancer. The pandal at the Mela Ground in CR Park has been recreated as a Natya Mandir — the courtyard of an erstwhile maharajas and the decoration of the idols has been inspired by Rajasthani culture. Cooperative Society’s puja pandal in the same area is designed on the aqua theme. The idol has white and blue drapes. Aquatic creatures adorn the sides and the backdrop of the main stage. Special lighting in blue and white adds special effect to the panels on marine life. A huge oyster-like structure is on the main stage and Maa Durga, looking resplendent in a white sari, comes out of it. Another pandal in the vicinity is designed like a kalash and interesting wall art done with beads is seen all around. In Greater Kailash II, one can find a pandal that replicates the design of a 250-year-old temple. Also, many pandals are offering services of free Wi-fi in order to encourage communication on social media.
Apart from the theme, what’s making these puja pandals a big hit are the cultural programmes. Puja committees have called upon special bands and reality show performers to up their glam appeal. Babul Supriyo was here for the opening of Arambagh Durga Puja, which has gone gone eco-friendly this time.
The puja has opted for tighter budgeting and green building material for its pandal. The Arambagh structure, too, pushes the envelope on design as its 50 feet by 30 feet facade is modelled on the head of a buffalo.
These pandals are surely the best place for the foodies. Traditional Bengali fare like luchi and aaloo dum and fish curry and rice are a common factor at these pandals. One can try variety of street food from all over the country. There’s some lebanese and Mexican fare, too, at some pandals. Kathi rolls and shawarmas seem to be in demand.
photos Pankaj Kumar