Festivity meets awareness in Capital’s Durga Puja pandals

The festive spirit is in full swing as Durga Puja pandals across the Capital are all set to welcome devotees and revellers for the grand celebrations.

This year, Delhi’s dynamic Bengali community has united to create a stunning visual experience that embodies the spirit of the festival, featuring intricate decorations, artistic idols and elaborate themes.

Ranging from traditional designs to modern interpretations, the pandals celebrate the rich cultural heritage and artistic skills of the community. Each structure is beautifully adorned with lights, flowers and thematic displays, inviting everyone to immerse themselves in the essence of Durga Puja.

A standout feature is the Arambagh Puja Samiti’s pandal in Jhandewalan, which centres on the theme, ‘Abandoned Mothers’. This poignant focus highlights the plight of elderly women neglected by their families, particularly in pilgrimage cities like Vrindavan and Varanasi. The message is intricately woven into the decorations, offering visitors a festive experience coupled with a moment of reflection.

Recognised for merging devotion with socially relevant themes, Arambagh Puja has become a landmark event in Delhi, celebrated not only for its vibrant festivities but also for raising awareness of pressing social issues. This year’s theme seeks to illuminate the lives of elderly mothers who, despite being overlooked, continue to pray for their children’s wellbeing while enduring difficult circumstances.

The visually striking pandal, designed by artist Arun Mondal from Kolkata, presents a poignant depiction of the struggles these mothers face. The idol of Durga, sculpted by Pradip Rudra Pal, further enhances the message against the backdrop of this emotional theme. As visitors walk through the intricately designed setup, they are met with a visual narrative that merges the beauty of Durga Puja with the harsh realities of abandonment.

Abhijit Bose, chairman of the Arambagh Puja Samiti, shared the motivation behind this year’s theme. “Our theme, Abandoned Mothers, is an emotional initiative aimed at shedding light on the societal and personal challenges faced by these mothers, often forgotten by their families. Durga Puja is not just a time for devotion but also an opportunity for self-reflection on values like kindness, solidarity and familial bonds. We hope to inspire a sense of responsibility among attendees, encouraging them to appreciate the importance of caring for their elderly parents,” Bose stated.

The celebrations are set to include cultural performances, traditional music and dance, along with food stalls offering a range of Bengali delicacies. With the rhythmic sound of ‘dhak’ (traditional drums) resonating in the air and the enticing aroma of festive dishes filling the surroundings, the atmosphere is charged with excitement and anticipation.

As families gather to celebrate, the Durga Puja pandals in Delhi serve as a testament to the city’s diverse cultural tapestry, fostering community spirit and devotion during this auspicious time. The celebrations are poised to commence with enthusiasm, attracting thousands to engage in age-old traditions and create lasting memories.