From RG Kar to environment: Puja organisers focus on pressing themes of current times

PTI New Delhi: Durga Puja organisers in the city and its outskirts are channeling their installation creativity into a powerful commentary on pressing issues — ranging from women's rights and social justice to environmental threats and rapid urbanisation. Yet, amidst the vibrant festivities, only one puja committee dared to acknowledge the chilling reality of the ongoing protests over the brutal rape-murder of a woman doctor from R G Kar Hospital, bringing a poignant urgency to this year's celebrations. Bengal's biggest festival is set to commence on October 9. Titled ‘Lajja' (shame), the Shri Shri Saraswati and Kali Mata Mandir Parishad in Kolkata's Kankurgachi area has unveiled an idol depicting the goddess covering her face with her palms in front of a woman's body.

Talking to PTI, a spokesperson for the committee explained, "As visitors enter the pandal, they will see the goddess covering her face in shame while the body of a woman lies before her." The lion accompanying the goddess is also depicted sitting before the body, its head lowered in mourning. Nearby, a white apron and stethoscope symbols of the medical profession are displayed beside the idol. The committee has, however, maintained the traditional look of the goddess at the end of the marquee. "We don't want to tinker with the 'sabeki' (traditional) look of the goddess. The theme has been added following the unfortunate developments," the spokesperson said. The 82-year-old Hazra Park Durga Puja, linked to Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose, has themed its celebration around social justice and community empowerment, titled 'Suddhi' (purification). "Our Puja serves as a reminder of the importance of social justice," said Sayan Deb Chatterjee, joint secretary of the Hazra Park Durgotsab Committee.

This year, our pandal will feature messages and sculptures promoting the purification of one's soul to eliminate the poison of prejudice against castes and communities. The goddess will convey that all are equal before her, he said. “While much progress has been made in society, the fight for equality continues," Chatterjee added. The puja has historically been organised by the Dalit community. In the northern part of the city, the Young Boys Club has chosen 'Ek Tukdo Aakash' (One Slice of Sky) as its theme to highlight ecological threats stemming from rapid urbanisation. "We have models depicting skyscrapers overwhelming the skyline and semi-nished buildings replacing greenery," said Rakesh Singh.