As many of you know that I was in India on a business trip. I was mostly in New Delhi for work, but decided to make a short visit to my hometown Kolkata just over the weekend, mostly to visit my mom and to see the city during one of its biggest festival. Its not that I got to venture too much out because of time constraints, but thought it will be enough to introduce the concept of Durga Puja to the community. It will be diversity moment for most of you.
Above is a traditional sclupture of goddess Durga. There are numerous variation an depiction from this basic (it is basic!) work or art and I will described and show you some of that. The important part is to understand the cultural, and socio-economic significance of the Pujas (as it is called in Bengal).
The picture above is the Durga as depicted at the South City Mall in southern Kolkata. If you notice it is a modern variation of the traditional sclupture. The location being a uber Mall, makes harmony with that depiction.
Here is the overall view. Look at the decorations, and people actually doing shoping at the mall, which is rather rare except for a few popular location in the US. The vibe is excellent and people were happy. Okay with this background let us dwell into the tradition of what the puja is about.
Durga Puja, one of the most significant festivals in Kolkata, is a grand celebration that transcends religious boundaries and unites people from all walks of life. The festival, which typically takes place in September or October, marks the victory of Goddess Durga over the buffalo demon Mahishasura. According to Hindu mythology, Mahishasura was a powerful demon who could not be defeated by any man or god. The gods, in their desperation, created Goddess Durga, a powerful female deity endowed with the combined strengths of all the gods. Armed with divine weapons, Durga fought Mahishasura for ten days and finally vanquished him, symbolizing the triumph of good over evil. This mythological background forms the core of Durga Puja, making it a celebration of female power and resilience.
In Kolkata, Durga Puja is not just a religious event but a cultural extravaganza that showcases the city’s artistic and creative prowess. The preparations for the festival begin months in advance, with artisans crafting intricate idols of Goddess Durga and elaborate pandals (temporary structures) that house these idols. Each pandal is a work of art, often themed around various cultural, social, or environmental issues. The city comes alive with lights, music, and dance, as people from all over the world come to witness the grandeur of the celebrations. The festival also includes traditional rituals, cultural performances, and community feasts, making it a time of joy and togetherness.
here is a typical 'pandal' or bamboo scaffolding shot from my car
The construction of a pandal is a meticulous process that often begins months in advance. Here's a general overview:
busy street scene at north kolkata near a Puja Pandal
The significance of Durga Puja in contemporary Kolkata extends beyond its religious roots. It has become a symbol of the city’s identity and cultural heritage. The festival has been inscribed on UNESCO’s Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity, highlighting its global cultural importance2. For the people of Kolkata, Durga Puja is a time to reconnect with their roots, celebrate their traditions, and showcase their city’s unique blend of modernity and tradition. It is also an economic boon, generating significant revenue through tourism, retail, and various cultural activities.
Durga Puja’s impact on Kolkata’s social fabric is profound. The element that I appreciate the most is the fact how the community comes together regardless of their background and participates in the festivities. The festival’s emphasis on the victory of good over evil resonates with contemporary social issues, inspiring people to stand against injustice and inequality. Moreover, the celebration of female power through the worship of Goddess Durga serves as a reminder of the importance of gender equality and women’s empowerment. In essence, Durga Puja in Kolkata is a vibrant tapestry of mythology, culture, and contemporary significance, making it one of the most cherished and awaited festivals in the city.
Durga Puja has undergone significant evolution over the centuries, transforming from a simple religious observance to a grand cultural festival. Historically, the celebration of Durga Puja in Bengal can be traced back to the late 16th century, when it was primarily a private affair among wealthy zamindar (landlord) families. These early celebrations were marked by elaborate rituals and feasts, but they were confined to the homes of the aristocracy. The British colonial period saw a shift, with the festival becoming more public and inclusive. The first community or “barowari” Durga Puja was organized in 1790 in Guptipara, Hooghly, marking the beginning of the festival’s transformation into a public event.
The 20th century brought further changes, with Durga Puja becoming a symbol of Bengali cultural identity and nationalism. During the Indian independence movement, the festival was used as a platform to promote unity and resistance against colonial rule. Post-independence, Durga Puja continued to grow in scale and significance, reflecting the socio-economic changes in Kolkata and the broader region. The advent of modern technology and media has also played a crucial role in the festival’s evolution. Today, Durga Puja is not only celebrated with traditional rituals but also with contemporary themes and artistic expressions, making it a blend of the old and the new.
Moreover, I think, Durga Puja has become a significant economic event, contributing to Kolkata’s economy through tourism, retail, and various cultural activities. The festival generates employment for thousands of artisans, performers, and service providers. Food is also a major element of the whole event. People go out and eat. Street foods, small and large restaurants and 5-star hotel all do excellent business during that time. I was staying at the ITC Royal Bengal and enjoyed great traditional breakfast of Luchi and Cholar Daal (fried bread and lentil).
here is the breakfast I was talking about! Yum!
Durga Puja also fosters a sense of community and inclusivity, as people from diverse backgrounds come together to celebrate. The emphasis on themes like women’s empowerment and social justice during the festival resonates with contemporary societal values, making Durga Puja not just a religious celebration but a reflection of the evolving cultural and social landscape of Kolkata.
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