In a city where Durga Puja ‘apparently’ means worshipping a grand idol of Goddess Durga along with her children, Garia Mitali Sangha stands apart. Every year, in a distinctive tradition spanning nearly seven decades, nine different forms of Goddess Durga are worshipped under the same roof.
Mahalaya, also known as Sarva Pitri Amavasya (forefathers in heaven), was observed on 2 October this year and marked the end of Pitri Paksha—recalling the ancestors. This is a religiously significant day for Hindu devotees, particularly Bengalis, who, at the crack of dawn with devotional or Shroddha offerings, pray for their souls in the afterlife.
This story about Shyamal Dhan Dutta Durga Puja started in the year 1880. The puja is done with every tradition their ancestors provided them with. Devotion and respect are what separate this particular puja apart from others.
It was in 1998 that a group of women decided to organise an all-women-led Durga puja that would celebrate ‘Nari shakti’ and challenge the gender norms, thus leading from the front with their capabilities, an initiative that had garnered much zeal from several neighbourhood homes
Themes for Durga Pujas in the city have always reflected a slice of the society or major events around the world. So, it is natural for the pujas this year to be affected by the rape and murder of Tilottama at R G Kar hospital.
Kolkata celebrates Bijoya Dashami, the last day of Durga Puja with great pomp. Colourful processions carrying the idols to the river banks for immersion, are organised across the city.
Manicktala Chaltabagan Lohapatty Durga Puja has always been a buzzing hub for pandal-hoppers. It is also the favorite choice among celebs who take part in their famous Sindur Khela ritual on Dashami.
The five-day carnival is the biggest annual event in this part of the world as roads are choked with human traffic throughout day and night.
The much-talked about Durga Puja at Santosh Mitra Square has hit rough weather after the Kolkata police stopped its public…
