The vibrant city of Kolkata transforms into a hub of festivities during Durga Puja, captivating millions with its elaborate puja pandals. While the grandeur of these structures draws attention, the skilled artisans who create them often remain in the shadows. This year, the Adani Durga Puja preview has taken a significant step by providing financial support to eight selected puja pandals, aiming to recognise and assist the artists who bring these magnificent creations to life.

Artistry and Innovation in Pandal Design

At Rajdanga Naba Uday Sangha, the theme for this year’s celebration is “sodhon,” which focuses on achieving ecological balance between nature and humanity. Debashish Barui, the chief artist behind the pandal, expressed that the funding from the Adani Puja preview has allowed him to realise a more ambitious design than initially planned. “When the puja organisers determine the theme, they also provide a budget. Sometimes, we must compromise on certain design elements to stay within that budget. However, this year’s support has enabled me to construct the structure I envisioned,” Barui stated.

Barui has dedicated years to perfecting his craft, and his work exemplifies the intricate relationship between art and survival. As the city rests at night, these artisans tirelessly labour to ensure their visions come to fruition. The artists involved in this process often relocate from various districts, spending nearly three months living within the pandals to complete their work. “As an artist, it saddens me if no one appreciates my creation. I want my art to resonate with people and bring joy; for my fellow artists and me, that is the ultimate reward,” remarked Dipankar Das, who has contributed to numerous Durga puja pandals over the past thirteen years.

Another artist, Somnath Chakraborty, who hails from Burdhaman district, shared his sentiments about the spiritual connection he feels while creating these pandals. “We craft these structures with our hands, and when the time comes to dismantle them, it brings a sense of sadness. However, that is the nature of life; nothing lasts forever. I hope the state government will support artists and promote our various art forms to ensure they reach a broader audience and continue to thrive in future generations,” he told NDTV.

Inclusivity and Accessibility in the Celebrations

This year’s Adani Durga Puja preview has also prioritised inclusivity, enhancing the experience for visitors to the eight shortlisted pandals. QR codes are strategically placed at the entrances, allowing attendees to listen to audio descriptions of the puja themes in eight different Indian and global languages. Furthermore, for individuals who are visually or hearing impaired, videos featuring sign language interpretations have been made available, ensuring that the puja is accessible to all.

As the arrival of Maa Durga draws crowds, local neighbourhoods transform into bustling destinations. Each pandal becomes a landmark, contributing to Kolkata’s reputation as a vibrant cultural canvas. However, behind every moment of awe lies a silent homage to the artisans’ hard work. Their creations represent not only their artistic identity but also their devotion to Maa Durga. While their work may be temporary, the impact they leave on the community is profound and lasting.

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