Getting bigger and better with each passing year, the Jyoti Sangam Puja Pandal is once again set to enthrall pandal hoppers of Ranchi this Dusshera. From illustrating the Navadurga seated in space to giving a sneak peek of swarglok and patallok and creating a replica of the famous Lakshman Jhulla of Rishikesh in the past, the varied themes of this pandal has been enticing Ranchiites for 60 years now.
This year, the pandal’s theme will captivate the visitors and take them to the deserts of Rajasthan. The structure is being designed to look like a fort buried in the desert. “On reaching the pandal premises, the worshippers will get a glimpse of an imaginary fort buried in the desert. With the carvings and vibrant presentations, the visitors will surely get a feel of the rich cultural heritage of Rajasthan,” said committee member Ravinder Saini. Going with the theme, the façade is being made to look like that of a fort with huge archways and pillars. Intricate workmanship is being carved on plywood showcasing the figures of dancing peacocks, camels, elephants and folk dancers from the region. The statues of all the deities including Goddess Durga will also have a traditional Rajasthani look. “The idols are also being designed in accordance with the theme. The figures of all the gods and goddesses will be seen in traditional Rajasthani costumes which will be finely painted on them giving the look of cloth,” added Saini. The pandal is being made of materials like bamboo, plywood, jute bags, thermocool and cloth while the idols are being made of clay and plaster of Paris. The budget for the entire celebration has been fixed at around Rs 12 lakh. Special light and sound effects will also be presented to give a realistic approach to the concept.
The designing and execution of the pandal structure is being done by local artist Ajay Verma and his team while the figures of all the deities are being designed by Pradipto Pal from West Bengal. The entire structure will be about 70 feet high and 70 feet broad and will be open to visitors from October 3.
To avoid any untoward incidents CCTV cameras will be installed in the premises. The committee has also ensured that five fire- fighting systems, mud buckets, private security personnel along with those appointed by the district administration will also be deployed at the venue.