Arambagh Puja to celebrate COMMUNAL HARMONY

KNOWN FOR ITS uniqueness and creativity, Arambagh Puja is showcasing a 40 ft facade of Mahisasur, which is quite different from the image that we have been witnessing since ages. Created by artists Bijan kundu and Nilanjan Chitrakar, the idol portrays a good looking figure rather than an ugly and horrific one.

“India is a country which celebrates unity in diversity.

Mahisasur has always tried to disturb the communal harmony, but Durga overpowered him with all the strength. We have a tendency to connote ugliness with evil, whereas that is not the case. Evil can be anywhere and in any form. So through a handsome Mahisasur we are trying to convey a message to fight racism,” said Abhijit Bose, Executive Chairman, Arambagh Puja.

The Arambagh Puja Samiti is also hosting some artisans from West Bengal to come and sell their products at the puja. A lady, whose husband was a victim of political murder, has come to sell her terracotta products. Other hosted artisans are from Bardhaman, Shantiniketan and Medinipur, whose travel and stay has been taken care of by the Puja Samiti. Also, the stalls have been allotted to them for free.

“Some of them came last year and received a great response. This year they called us and showed their interest to come again. Although we are short on budget, our Puja Samiti decided to extend all possible help to the artisans on humanitarian grounds. It is important for us to support them keeping in mind that the art forms they represent are dying. If not us, who will support them,” added Bose.

The Samiti has invited some of the best singers from

Zee Sa Re Ga Ma Pa (Bengali). Pranab Natto, Tulika Gangadhar etc are a few names among them. Also, Harekrishna Haldar’s dhol performance will be another big attraction during the event. Dohar-a band, founded by Late Kalika Prasad Bhattacharya, will also be coming to to revive the folk music tradition of Northern and Eastern Bengal at the puja.