From designing the replica of Gujarat’s Somnath Temple to creating a facsimile of a Buddhist Temple located in Sikkim, one of the major attractions of Durga Puja is yet again ready to spellbind the pandal hoppers with its concept.
Taking the essence of puja celebration to a different level by amalgamating creativity and sustainability, Harmu Panch Mandir is all geared up to set an example. With several puja samitis using synthetic materials to give shape to the puja pandals in accordance to their themes, the age old Harmu Panch Mandir in a unique attempt for the first time has completely switched over from traditional means of decoration to using biodegradable stuffs for bedecking the pandal.
The puja pandal known for its distinctive concept has been carved out using green stuffs like paddy straws, bamboo sticks, bamboo mats and other biodegradable materials. With nearly 60 artists in the team, the replica of Egyptian Temple made using eco-friendly materials will mesmerize the leisure buffs, this season.
According to the members of the organising committee, Harmu Panch Mandir Puja pandal is the only pandal that has predominantly used organic materials in designing and decorating the pandal. “Leaving out illumination part, approximately 90 per cent design of the pandal has been done utilizing paddy straws and bamboo mats. The figurines of the deities have been made with terracotta and plaster of paris,” said, member of Harmu Panch Mandir Puja Samiti, Pradeep Agarwal.
Being primed at a whopping cost of Rs. 27 lakh, the puja pandal measures 70 feet in height and highlights the rich architectural style of Egyptian design with a mixed blend of a few Indian art forms. Besides the exterior designing which is based on features of Egyptian shrine, emphasis is on interior embellishment.
Artisans from West Bengal at Harmu Panch Mandir Puja Pandal have inked minuscule contemporary art work along with some disappearing fine art designs on ply boards and small wooden materials to convey ‘Go Green’ to the visitors. According to the artistes, different Bengali Art forms will be decked up inside the puja pandal for giving a distinct look to the main podium where deities will be placed.
“Besides the concept which involves a hefty sum, special attention has been given in designing the figurines of deities. A total sum of Rs. 2.5 lac has been spent on designing the statuettes which is again based on Egyptian sculpture art concept. The idols are designed by renowned sculpture artist of the State Capital Ajay Pal,” added Agarwal.