Durga Puja Ethinic Fashion trends

August 6, 2013, 10:49 pm

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For the Bengalis, Durga Puja isn’t just an annual festival. It’s their fancy-fare! What better time to parade the city in stylish clothes than Durga Puja? Bring out one and many, in every comprehensible color, print and style…every fashion trend and fashion desire finds vent during Durga Puja.

Short of blinding aesthetics and severing tastes, anything goes before the Goddess. Maa Durga isn’t discriminative of traditional over modern, nor is cut, style, prints and motifs her main concern. And women seem to love this fact!

Durga Puja attire has no rule when the aim is to look good and enjoy. The saree is traditionally most desired during the festivities, and for the Bengali woman, will never go out of style. The dhakai in varieties of tassar, muslin, and cotton are the age-old favorites. Tangails and Kotas are perfect for the Indian weather and Silk and Gadwals exudes style and grace.

Some of the latest trends that have been adopted by the Bengalis are Zardozi (heavy sequin and bead work) Chiffons, Woven Net, Phulkari (thread work traditional to Punjab), Hakoba, Appliqué work, Jute Silks, etc.

Young girls and women will also dress in clothes other than the saree. The salwar kameez, the traditional favorite of young women, have undergone a great many changes in the past decade. Bengalis have adopted styles like the Patiala, the Jaipuri ghagra and the Lucknowy Chosth. The fitting churidaars and kameez’s from the 60’s are back, including skirts which are here to stay for good. Tight-fit jeans and figure-hugging long tops are all the rage this season, including short dresses, although one is more likely to see the latter in private parties.

Fashion for children has evolved from the frocks to the backless cholis and ghagras, halter-neck tops and mini-skirts, and even body-fitting short dresses, and hot-pantsare in vogue.

If the women can do it, so can the men. The metro-sexual man is willing to experiment and adopt new styles. No longer are stripes and checks and shades of blue and white the only choices for men. Fashion houses have introduced the pinks, yellows, oranges and greens to men’s wardrobe. Flower-power is no longer the purview of women alone; men’s shirts and sherwanis have dominated floral motifs. Sherwanis are a notch extravagant in sequin work and zari embroideries.
The dhoti, the Indian national dress for men, has long gone out of style, although few Bengali men will still wear it on Durga Puja. But quite obviously, the sherwani is here to stay and rule!

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Big Budget Durga Pooja in Kolkata

August 9, 2013, 2:41 am

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The land of Bengal has always been known for her devotion to Devi Durga since time immemorial. The worship of Durga is integrally weaved into the contour of Bengal's culture. Thus when Bengalis celebrate it, they celebrate in grand style. Almost a hundred of pujas are organized every year. But a few are grand. And by grand we mean really pompous. Ekdalia, Babubagan, Mohammed Ali Park, Kumartuli, Maddox Square, Suruchi Sangaha, Ahiritola are some of the biggest mandals in Kolkata for celebrating Durga Puja. From the northern fringes to the southern parts, these big names are spread all over the city. The top four ones are as follows:

1. The Ahiritola Puja has been conducted from pre independence days. Thus it has got a huge social, historical and cultural importance. With lavish decorations and excellent themes year after year, this one is really one of the best. And the generous budget is as big as the occasion itself.

2. Speaking of grand pujas, if we descend southwards Ekdalia and Singhi Park ones are no less in terms of budget. With elaborate lighting arts and huge pandals decorated to the fullest, these pujas witness huge footfall every day. Last year Ekdalia even roped in German artist Gregor Schneider.

3. The next name in the list of grand ones is that of Kumartuli. Since the place itself is synonymous with supreme craft and art, the Kumartuli Park Durga Puja never lacks in terms of artistically rich and innovative themes. Last year they designed a beautiful ' Pora Matir Kella' as their pandal. It was truly awesome.

4. Mohammed Ali Park is no less big. It is even one of the oldest ' sarbojonin ' pujas. Their themes are thought invoking and intelligent. Last year their theme of 'torture against women' was highly applauded.

In this list the name of Suruchi Sangha also deserves a mention. A veteran puja, having completed more than 50 years, it is a huge attraction for pandal hoppers. Its decorations and light works are magnificent. Thus Bengal experiences a large number of big budget Durga Pujas. These celebrations are the pompous show of wealth and power because we know that it’s for her, our Mother Goddess and so it’s worth it

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delicious food options in Durga Pooja

August 12, 2013, 12:01 am

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Bengalis love food, and Durga Puja is the perfect excuse to eat all that the heart desires!
When it comes to spending on great tasting menus, Bengalis are a thrifty lot. Durga Puja is just one of the many occasions to empty the pockets and fill stomachs with every available variety out there!
Everything, starting from the Bengali’s favorite ‘pulao mangsho’ to Tandoori, Moghlai and a mix of Indian cuisines, is there to make up a soul-satisfying palate. Exploring the international flavors, included foremost in the list of cuisines is the Chinese, perpetually every Bengali’s favorite. Thai too is starting to appeal the tastes buds, including Italian, although the latter is still widely popular in the forms of pizza and pasta. The coffee culture has been in vogue for quite some time; there are the Café Coffee Days and Baristas to vile away the afternoon and evenings over a cup of hot cappuccino or a plate of chocolate pastry.

Comfort is the key to enjoyment, at least for the Bengalis. An air-conditioned restaurant, cushioned chairs and music to accompany their meals is tempting to the spoilt babumoshai‘. But make no mistake. When it comes to enjoying a cheap, tasty food break, it’s the roadside food stall that wins over any Park Street posh restaurant or bar.
The good-old tea stalls with their teas served in ‘bhaars’ with a couple of tough, bland bakery biscuits, or the roll-stall serving hot, spicy, vegan and non-vegan rolls, have a charm of their own. The ‘puchkawala’ is everybody’s favorite, together with the others that serve ‘ghugni’, ‘chaats’, ‘bhelpuri’, etc. And if the spice gets a bit too much, there are the big red cloth-wrapped aluminum ‘handis’ carrying ‘kulfi’, that are the best coolers on a sunny Puja morning, and a traditional favorite too.
Make it rich, make it tasty, keep it reasonably priced – the formula never fails with Bengalis!

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ALL the 108 Names of Durga Maa

August 13, 2013, 11:50 pm

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1. Sati - One who got burned alive

2. Saadhvi -The Sanguine

3. Bhavaprita - One who is loved by the universe

4. Bhavaani - The abode of the universe

5. Bhavamochani - The absolver of the universe

6. Aarya - Goddess

7. Durga - The Invincible

8. Jaya - The Victorious

9. Aadya - The Initial reality

10. Trinetra - One who has three-eyes

11. Shooldharini - One who holds a monodent

12. Pinaakadharini - One who holds the trident of Shiva

13. Chitra - The Picturesque

14. Chandaghanta - One who has mighty bells

15. Mahaatapa - With severe penance

16. Manah - Mind

17. Buddhi - Intelligence

18. Ahankaara - One with Pride

19. Chittarupa - One who is in thought-state

20. Chita - Death-bed

21. Chiti - The thinking mind

22. Sarvamantramayi - One who possess all the instruments of thought

23. Satta - One who is above all

24. Satyanandasvarupini - Form of Eternal bliss

25. Ananta - One who is Infinite or beyond measure

26. Bhaavini - The Beautiful Woman

27. Bhaavya - Represents Future

28. Bhavya - With Magnificence

29. Abhavya - Improper or fear-causing

30. Sadagati - Always in motion, bestowing Moksha (salvation)

31. Shaambhavi - Consort of Shambhu

32. Devamata - Mother Goddess

33. Chinta - Tension

34. Ratnapriya - Adorned or loved by jewels

35. Sarvavidya - Knowledgeable

36. Dakshakanya - Daughter of Daksha

37. Dakshayajñavinaashini - Destroyer of the sacrifice of Daksha

38. Aparna - One who doesn’t eat even leaves while fasting

39. Anekavarna - One who has many complexions

40. Paatala - Red in color

41. Paatalavati - Wearing red-color attire

42. Pattaambaraparidhaana - Wearing a dress made of leather

43. Kalamanjiiraranjini - Wearing a musical anklet

44. Ameyaa - One who is beyond measure

45. Vikrama - Violent

46. Krrooraa - Brutal (on demons)

47. Sundari - The Gorgeous

48. Sursundari - Extremely Beautiful

49. Vandurga - Goddess of forests

50. Maatangi - Goddess of Matanga

51. Matangamunipujita - Worshipped by Sage Matanga

52. Braahmi - Power of God Brahma

53. Maaheshvari - Power of Lord Mahesha (Shiva)

54. Aeindri - Power of God Indra

55. Kaumaari - The adolescent

56. Vaishnavi - The invincible

57. Chaamunda - Slayer of Chanda and Munda(demons)

58. Vaarahi - One who rides on Varaah

59. Lakshmi - Goddess of Wealth

60. Purushaakriti -One who takes the form of a man

61. Vimalauttkarshini -One who provides joy

62. Gyaana - Full of Knowledge

63. Kriya - One who is in action

64. Nitya - The eternal one

65. Buddhida - The bestower of wisdom

66. Bahula - One who is in various forms

67. Bahulaprema - One who is loved by all

68. Sarvavahanavahana -One who rides all vehicles

69. NishumbhaShumbhaHanani - Slayer of the demon-brothers Shumbha Nishumbha

70. MahishasuraMardini - Slayer of the bull-demon Mahishaasura

71. MadhuKaitabhaHantri - Slayer of the demon-duo Madhu and Kaitabha

72. ChandaMundaVinashini - Destroyer of the ferocious asuras Chanda and Munda

73. Sarvasuravinasha - Destroyer of all demons

74. Sarvadaanavaghaatini - Possessing the power to kill all the demons

75. Sarvashaastramayi - One who is deft in all theories

76. Satya - The truth

77. Sarvaastradhaarini - Possessor of all the missile weapons

78. Anekashastrahasta - Possessor of many hand weapons

79. AnekastraDhaarini - Possessor of many missile weapons

80. Komaari - The beautiful adolescent

81. Ekakanya - The girl child

82. Kaishori - The adolescent

83. Yuvati - The Woman

84. Yati - Ascetic, one who renounces the world

85. Apraudha - One who never gets old

86. Praudha - One who is old

87. Vriddhamaata - The old mother (loosely)

88. Balaprada - The bestower of strength

89. Mahodari - One who has huge belly which stores the universe

90. Muktakesha - One who has open tresses

91. Ghorarupa - Having a fierce outlook

92. Mahaabala - Having immense strength

93. Agnijwaala - One who is poignant like fire

94. Raudramukhi - One who has a fierce face like destroyer Rudra

95. Kaalaratri - Goddess who is black like night

96. Tapasvini - one who is engaged in penance

97. Narayani - The destructive aspect of Lord Narayana (Brahma)

98. Bhadrakaali Fierce form of Kali

99. Vishnumaya Spell of Lord Vishnu

100. Jalodari - Abode of the ethereal universe

101. Shivadooti - Ambassador of Lord Shiva

102. Karaali - The Violent

103. Ananta - The Infinite

104. Parameshvari - The Ultimate Goddess

105. Katyayani -One who is worshipped by sage Katyanan

106. Savitri - Daughter of the Sun God Savitr

107. Pratyaksha - One who is real

108. Brahmavaadini One who is present everywhere

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How Maa Durga became Mahisasura Mardini

August 18, 2013, 9:10 pm

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Long ago in a time not so different from now, the mighty Asura king Mahishasura was granted the boon of immortality by Shiva, through extreme tapasya and prolonged meditation. Shiv Ji was so pleased with Mahishasura’s devotion, that he blessed him with eternal life, declaring that no man, beast, demon or deity would ever be able to kill him.
Mahishasura’s father, Rambha and his brother Karambha, had also both been great tapasvis. Rambha had done tapasya to Agni Dev, sitting amidst five sacred fires on the banks of the river Indus, he performed the Panchagni sacrifice. Karambha did his austerities standing neck-deep in the Sindu river to please and receive the blessings of Varuna Dev.

Indra, the king of Gods, realizing the feat of the two Asuras, felt threatened by their intense austerities and decided to kill them both. He took the form of a crocodile, slipped into the waters, grabbed Karambha’s feet, pulled him under and killed him.
When Indra tried to kill Rambha, he was saved by Agni because of his intense devotion. Rambha realizing his brothers death increased the intensity of his austerities and was given several boons, most importantly the boon that he could not be killed by any human, God or Asura – demon.
Empowered with his boons, Rambha began a rampage of fear and destruction, killing all living beings to cross his path. One day, roaming the garden of Yaksha, he met the beautiful female-buffalo Mahishi – who was actually the princess Shyamala, cursed to be a buffalo– and fell in love. Rambha, in an expression of love, transformed himself into a male-buffalo and seduced Mahishi. But all too soon a real buffalo discovered Rambha and being without protection against animals, killed him.
Through their union, Mahishi became pregnant and at Rambha’s funeral rites, threw herself into the funeral pyre. Out of the flames sprang a mighty beast with the head of a buffalo and the body of a human. This was Mahishasura.

Mahishasura, having received Shiva’s boon, now considered himself invincible and started a reign of terror and conquest of the three lokas. Slaying and killing mercilessly, he and his army of demons soon conquered earth, and set their eyes upon Devaloka, the abode of the Devas. Mahishasura attacked the Gods, and in a feroscious battle seized Devaloka, driving out Indra and the Devas. He grabed the throne of Indra and declared himself to be the new ruler.
The Devas hurried to seek the aid of Brahma, Vishnu and Shiva, who were not pleased to hear of Mahishasura’s deeds. The stories of Mahishasura’s violent conquest enraged the three to such a degree that a light of anger sprang out of Brahma, Vishnu and Shiva. The display of anger from the three sent out a light, which illuminated the three worlds and combined to take the beautiful form of the Goddess Durga.
Mahishasura in his arrogance had not considered that a woman could be of any threat, but Shiva, having given Mahishasura his boon, knew that he was only protected against animals, men and Gods, and that a woman, a Devi, with the boons and powers of the three would be able to slay the demon and restore balance and prosperity to the worlds.
When Mahishasura saw Durga on the battlefield, he fell in love instantly, enthralled by her beauty, he proposed to marry her. Durga agreed, but on one condition, Mahishasura would have to defeat her in battle.
Then began a fierce battle between the two and their armies of Devas and Asuras, the fighting continued for nine days and nights with much gore and destruction. Finally on the tenth day, Durga had the upper hand and Mahishasura, desperately trying to avoid defeat, transformed into a wild buffalo. Durga pinned him to the ground with her left leg, Mahishasura shapeshifted back to his human form and leapt up. Durga pierced his chest with her trishul and swiftly beheaded Mahishasura with her sword, liberating both man and Gods of the terrible demon and restoring peace and balance to the worlds.
Thus Durga was given the name Mahishasura Mardini, the slayer of Mahishasura.

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9 Different Forms of Durga

August 20, 2013, 11:06 pm

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As the ten-armed Goddess, Goddess Durga presents a radiantly beautiful form that is bewitching to behold. That special form is somehow simultaneously wrathful and benign and transmits profound spiritual teachings in an exacting manner. The nine-day period from the new moon day to the ninth day of Ashvina is considered the most auspicious time of the Hindu Calendar and is hence the most celebrated time of the year as Durga Puja. The nine different forms of Devi are worshiped over the nine days. These are the most popular forms under which she is worshiped:

Durga Shailputri (Daughter of Mountain)
She is a daughter of Himalaya and first among nine Durgas. In previous birth she was the daughter of Daksha. Her name was Sati - Bhavani. i.e. the wife of Lord Shiva. Once Daksha had organized a big Yagna and did not invite Shiva. But Sati being obstinate, reached there. Thereupon Daksha insulted Shiva. Sati could not tolerate the insult of husband and burnt herself in the fire of Yagna. In other birth she became the daughter of Himalaya in the name of Parvati - Hemvati and got married with Shiva. As per Upnishad she had torn and the egotism of Indra, etc. Devtas. Being ashamed they bowed and prayed that, "In fact, thou are Shakti, we all - Brahma, Vishnu and Shiv are capable by getting Shakti from you."

Brahmacharini

The second Durga Shakti is Brahamcharini. Brahma that is who observes penance(tapa) and good conduct. Here "Brahma" means "Tapa". The idol of this Goddess is very gorgeous. There is rosary in her right hand and Kamandal in left hand. She is full with merriment. One story is famous about her. In previous birth she was Parvati Hemavati the daughter of Himvan. Once when she was busy in games with her friends. Naradaji came to her and predicted seeing her Palm-lines that, "You will get married with a naked-terrible 'Bhole baba' who was with you in the form of Sati, the daughter of Daksh in previous birth. But now you have to perform penance for him." There upon Parvati told her mother Menaka that she would marry none except Shambhu, otherwise she would remain unmarried. Saying this she went to observe penance. That is why her name is famous as tapacharini - Brahmacharini. From that time her name Uma became familiar.

Chandraghanta
The name of third Shakti is Chandraghanta. There is a half-circular moon in her forehead. She is charmful and bright. She is Golden color. She has three eyes and ten hands holding with ten types of swords - etc. weapons and arrows etc. She is seated on Lion and ready for going in war to fight. She is unprecedented image of bravery. The frightful sound of her bell terrifies all the villains, demons and danavas.

Kushmanda
Name of fourth Durga is Kushmanda. The Shakti creates egg, ie. Universe by mere laughing .She resides in solar systems. She shines brightly in all the ten directions like Sun. She has eight hands. Seven types of weapons are shining in her seven hands. Rosary is in her right hand. She seems brilliant riding on Lion. She likes the offerings of "Kumhde." Therefore her name "Kushmanda" has become famous.

Skanda Mata
Fifth name of Durga is "Skanda Mata". The daughter of Himalaya, after observing penance got married with Shiva. She had a son named "Skanda." Skanda is a leader of the army of Gods. Skanda Mata is a deity of fire. Skanda is seated in her lap. She has three eyes and four hands. She is white and seated on a lotus.

Katyayani
Sixth Durga is Katyayani. The son of "Kat" as "Katya". Rishi Katyayan born in this "Katya" lineage. Katyayan had observed penance with a desire to get paramba as his daughter. As a result she took birth as a daughter of Katyayan. Therefore her name is "Katyayani" . She has three eyes and eight hands. These are eight types of weapons missiles in her seven hands. Her vehicle is Lion.

Kalratri
Seventh Durga is Kalratri. She is black like night. Durga hairs are unlocked. She has put on necklaces shining like lightening. She has three eyes which are round like universe. Her eyes are bright. Thousands of flames of fire come out while respiring from nose. She rides on Shava (dead body). There is sharp sword in her right hand. Her lower hand is in blessing mood. The burning torch (mashal) is in her left hand and her lower left hand is in fearless style, by which she makes her devotees fearless. Being auspicious she is called "Shubhamkari."

Maha Gauri
The Eighth Durga is "Maha Gauri." She is as white as a conch, moon and Jasmine. She is of eight years old. Her clothes and ornaments are white and clean. She has three eyes. She rides on bull She has four hands. The above left hand is in "Fearless - Mudra" and lower left hand holds "Trishul." The above right hand has tambourine and lower right hand is in blessing style. She is calm and peaceful and exists in peaceful style. It is said that when the body of Gauri became dirty due to dust and earth while observing penance, Shiva makes it clean with the waters of Gangas. Then her body became bright like lightening. There fore, she is known as "Maha Gauri" .

Siddhidatri
Ninth Durga us Siddhidatri. There are eight Siddhis , they are- Anima, Mahima, Garima, Laghima, Prapti, Prakamya, Iishitva & Vashitva. Maha Shakti gives all these Siddhies. It is said in "Devipuran" that the Supreme God Shiv got all these Siddhies by worshipping Maha Shakti. With her gratitude the half body of Shiv has became of Goddess and there fore his name "Ardhanarishvar" has became famous. The Goddess drives on Lion. She has four hands and looks pleased. This form of Durga is worshiped by all Gods, Rishis-Munis, Siddhas, Yogis, Sadhakas and devotees for attaining the best religious asset.

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Durga Puja countdown clock

August 6, 2013, 6:31 pm

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9th October Wednesday (22nd Aashin 1420)	PANCHAMI দুর্গা পূজা মহাপঞ্চমী ২২ আশ্বিন ১৪২০	Sun Rise-5:34am Sun Set-5:14pm Panchami 1.17 am - 11.14pm Shuklapakhya
10th October Thursday (23rd Aashin 1420)	SHASTHI দুর্গা পূজা মহাষষ্ঠী ২৩ আশ্বিন ১৪২০ "Kalparambho" within 9.27am Durga Devi "BODHON""Amantran" and "Adhibas'' in the evening	Sun Rise-5:34am Sun Set-5:13pm Shasthi From Previous day 11.14pm-That day 9.00pm Shuklapakhya
11th October Friday (24th Aashin 1420)	SAPTAMI দুর্গা পূজা মহাসপ্তমী ২৪ আশ্বিন ১৪২০ "Nabo Patrika""Saptami Puja" Within 8.29am Predawn bathing of "Kola Bow" Midnight Puja of Devi durga from 10:59pm to 11:47pm	Sun Rise-5:34am Sun Set-5:12pm Saptami From Previous day 9.00pm-That day 6.37pm Shuklapakhya
12th October Saturday (25th Aashin 1420)	ASHTAMI দুর্গা পূজা মহাষ্টমী ২৫ আশ্বিন ১৪২০ Ashtami Puja after 7:2am within 9:27am Birastami Brata within 9:27am SANDHI PUJA 3.48pm-4.36pm SACRIFICE- 4.12pm	Sun Rise-5:35am Sun Set-5:11pm Ashtami From Previous day 6.37pm-That day 4.12pm Shuklapakhya
13th October Sunday (26th Aashin 1420)	NABAMI দুর্গা পূজা মহানবমী ২৬ আশ্বিন ১৪২০ Nabami Puja within 9:27am	Sun Rise-5:35am Sun Set-5:10pm Nabami From Previous day 4.12pm-That day 1.50pm Shuklapakhya
14th October Monday (27th Aashin 1420)	DASHAMI দুর্গা পূজা বিজয়াদশমী ২৭ আশ্বিন ১৪২০ Dashami puja and Bisharjan Ritual (Immersion) within 9.27am	Sun Rise-5:36am Sun Set-5:10pm Dashami From Previous day 1.50pm-that day 11.36am Shuklapakhya

Durga Puja Date & Time according to 2013

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Breathing life into the Goddess

August 27, 2013, 11:03 pm

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In the first decade of the 18th century most of Calcutta was still a jungle. Amidst the swamps and paddy fields lived fishermen who set up small markets on raised patches of land called dehis. The city of Calcutta covers an area once occupied by three villages. To the north were the villages of Sutanuti and Dihi, while to the south was the village of Govindapur where the British established Fort William. Sutanuti was probably a cotton market and made rapid progress with Burrabazar at its centre supplying the British with provisions. As the British East India Company grew it attracted the services of wealthy Bengali businessmen. Holwell, an agent of the Company, divided the steadily-growing town into a number of quarters named according to the business conducted in each quarter. It is at this time that we hear of Kumartuli or the quarter (tola) of the potters (kumars). These kumars or potters have been engaged in the business of making the clay images of the multitude of Gods and Goddesses that we worship through generations. The tradition of clay image making in West Bengal probably has its origins in a medival village tradition but it was during the 18th and the 19th century that clay image making became established as the distinctive feature of Bengali culture that is seen today. Bengal specializes in preserving this age old tradition. Unmatched skills come to limelight during the festive season of Durga Puja

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Best Durga Puja Pandals in Town

September 5, 2013, 12:24 am

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Famous Kolkata Durga Puja Pandals

Durga Puja has traditionally been the most popular as well as the most-celebrated festival of West Bengal in general, and Kolkata in particular. During the festival, almost thousands of enormously-decorated pandals with the idols of goddess Durga dot the streets of the city. People visit all famous Kolkata Durga Puja Pandals late into nights during all 4-days of the festival to further enjoy the all-round festivities.

Around two thousands pandals are set up across the city, but some of them really stand out for their grandeur, decoration, tradition and charm. More so, pandals with the best decoration, best idol’s design and great art work compete for prizes at stake. Some of the most famous Kolkata Durga Puja Pandals are listed below:

Bagbazar

Bagbazar in North Kolkata, around a century old, is ranked among the oldest and traditional Durga Puja pandals in Kolkata, which attracts a huge crowd each year for its dual exhibition of gorgeous idol of Goddess Durga as well as of tradition and culture.

Kumartuli Park

Kumartuli Park in North Kolkata is not as old as many others, but it has become popular for being in the area where Durga idols are handcrafted professionally.

College Square

College Square in Central Kolkata stands out for its picturesque setting, as the pandal is set-up around a lake, and the whole area goes enormously illuminated for the festival duration.

Mohammad Ali Park

Mohammad Ali Park in Central Kolkata is set up in a large park, which invites a huge crowd for its elaborate and attention-grabbing display.

Santosh Mitra Square

Santosh Mitra Square in Central Kolkata is just a decade-and-half old, and it mesmerises the guests for its remarkable art work.

Badamtala Ashar Sangha

Badamtala Ashar Sangha in South Kolkata features among the oldest and famous Kolkata Durga Pandals, and it now prides for winning an award in 2010 for creative excellence.

Suruchi Sangha

Suruchi Sangha in South Kolkata is known for its annual exhibition of idols, modelled on the look and design of goddess Durga in different states of India. In 2003 and 2009, it won award respectively for best-decorated pandal and exquisite artwork.

Ekdalia Evergreen

Ekdalia Evergreen in South Kolkata, at Gariahat, is among the famous Kolkata Durga Puja pandals for exhibiting splendid replicas of temples from across India.

Bose Pukur Sitala Mandir

Bose Pukur Sitala Mandir in South Kolkata is known for winning many awards on the basis of its unique themes, displayed almost each year.

Jodhpur Park

Jodhpur Park in South Kolkata is ranked among the most popular pandals in the city for its continuous display of vast and varied themes each year

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Red Carpet Durga Puja 2013

September 5, 2013, 12:30 am

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There are literally thousands of Kolkata Durga Puja pandals but some stand out more than others, as a result of their enchanting decorations. Every year they contend to surpass each other with the most intricate and innovative themes. Durga Puja which is a principal festival during Navratri is celebrated with much gaiety and devotion in the city through public ceremonies. It is during this fine occasion, huge Pandals are erected at various places of the city for housing large idols of Maa Durga. The devotees turn up in large numbers to worship Goddess Durga. This year at over 550 places 'Maa Ka Darbar' would be set up at different places in the city.

Durga Puja festival marks the triumph of Goddess Durga over the evil buffalo demon Mahishasura. Thus, Durga Puja festival exemplifies the victory of Good over Evil. It is not only the biggest Hindu festival celebrated throughout the state, it is also the most significant socio-cultural event in Bengali Hindu society. The prominence of Durga Puja amplified gradually during the British Raj in Bengal. In the first quarter of the 20th century, the tradition of Baroyari or Community Puja was popularised due to this. In Bengal, Durga Puja is also known Akalbodhan, Sharadiya Pujo, Sharadotsav or Maha Pujo. Today's Puja, however, goes far beyond religion. The music, dancing, and art displayed and performed during the Durga puja played an integral part in connecting the community in Bengal, and eventually across India and the world today. Initially the Puja was organised by affluent families since they had the money to organise the festival. Pujas in Calcutta and elsewhere experiment with ground-breaking concepts every year. Communities have created prizes for Best Pandal, Best Puja, and other categories. Pandals and idols inspired by a particular theme have been the hallmark of many community or Sarbajanin Pujas in Kolkata since the 1990s. Puja committees decide on a particular theme, whose elements are incorporated into the pandal and the idols. The design and decoration is usually done by art and architecture students based in the city. The budget required for such theme-based pujas is often higher than traditional pujas. They attract crowds and are well received.

This year Durga Puja in Kolkata is ready to disseminate the much more creativity, decoration, added services, cultural messages and many more extravagant things among the populace. Geographical area of Durga Puja is basically categorized into North Kolkata, South Kolkata and Saltlake area. Some of the famous pujas of North Kolkata are Telengabagan, Sreebhumi, Kumartoli, Laketown Notun Polli Pradip Sangha, College Square, Chaltabagan, Sealdah Athletic Club, Santosh Mitra Sqaure etc. In South Kolkata, the famous are Mudiali, Kasba Bosepukur, Dhakuria Babubagan, Ekdalia Evergreen Club, Park Circus Athletic Club, Maddox Square etc. And in Saltlake, FD Block Durga Puja is the most popular among all. All the above mentioned venues will showcase their pandals and idols in a distinctive way.

Now we shall lob light on the themes of Durga Puja 2013 in a transitory manner and of course herein we will mention only few themes which are definitely pulsating in the minds of the people. This year Kankurgachi, Bagha Jatin Club will decorate Debi Durga with ancient arms of India and thereby the members are entrusted with the responsibility to collect those arms. And Naktala Udayan Sangha will create their goddess with various stones. Installation and fresco artist Jean-Xavier Renaud, who lives and works in Hauteville, France, will join forces with local artist Gopal Poddar to create the pandal and idol for the Pallimangal SamityDurga Puja on the ground adjoining EDF in south Kolkata's Jodhpur Park locality. , it is Alliance Francaise du Bengale that is driving this year's project. Alliance Francaise will fund the Rs. 40 lakhs project. The theme of the Pallimangal Samity puja is tentatively titled 'Cannes to Kolkata' celebrates the centenary year of Indian cinema. Three Pakistani artists Haidar Ali, Mumtaz Ahmed & Md. Iqbal will decorate the Hatibagan Nabinpalli pandal with their exclusive 'truck art' this Puja. Truck art is a Peshawari art form of Pakistan where stunning landscapes, colorful floral patterns, portraits of national heroes, famous actors of Pakistan and India, calligraphic poetry and religious stanzas are painted on trucks, which take goods from one city to another.

Lake Town's Sree Bhumi Sporting Club is poised to explode this Durga Puja as revelers queue up to view the biggest-ever public exhibition of gold ornaments. The pandal will transform into an exhibition hall with gods and goddesses sporting jewellery worth Rs. 4 crores and these gold ornaments will be sponsored by Tanishq (Tata group).The puja pandal will also be golden, a replica of the Shwedagon Pagoda and stupa in Yangon.

Furthermore, we will come up with more stirring stuffs of Durga Puja 2013 in this blog. So we expect and wishing you all prosperous Durga Puja this year.

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Adieu to Mother - Collection of Immersion moments from Bagbazar Ghat

October 27, 2012, 11:16 am

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Red Carpet of Kolkata Durga Pooja 2013

September 6, 2013, 3:01 am

≫ Next: Pan India Durgotsav

≪ Previous: Adieu to Mother - Collection of Immersion moments from Bagbazar Ghat

Furthermore, we will come up with more stirring stuffs of Durga Puja 2013 in this blog. So we expect and wishing you all prosperous Durga Puja this year

↧

Pan India Durgotsav

September 8, 2013, 11:02 am

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Durga Puja Revels Beyond Bengal

Durga Puja is extensively celebrated in the Indian states of Assam, Bihar, Jharkhand, Orissa, Tripura and West Bengal, where it is a five-day annual holiday. Apart from eastern India, Durga Puja is also celebrated in Delhi, Uttar Pradesh, Maharashtra, Gujarat, Punjab, Kashmir, Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka and Kerala. Durga Puja is also celebrated as a major festival in Nepal and in Bangladesh all over the places of Dhaka, Chittagong, Khulna, Sylhet, Rajshahi, Rangpur, Bogra and other major places and all the villages of Bangladesh where the 20% populace is Hindu.3-day National Holiday is being professed and most of the educational institutions remain closed as it is one of the major national festival also in Bangladesh which is widely celebrated and people from all religion participate in the programme. Nowadays, many diaspora Bengali cultural organisations assemble for Durgotsab in countries such as the United States, Canada, United Kingdom, Australia, Germany, France, The Netherlands, Singapore and Kuwait, among others. In 2006, a splendid Durga Puja ceremony was held in the Great Court of the British Museum.

Assam

In Silchar more than 300 pandals, adorned with lights, sculptures and other art forms are created. After Bihu, Durga Puja is the most prevalent festival of Assam. Nowadays the Durga Puja is mostly a community festival celebrated in all the cities, towns, villages of Assam with great carnival and religious fervour for five days.

Durga Puja is the core festival of Hindus in the Bengali subjugated Barak Valley of Assam, where Silchar is the main city. It is said that Durga Puja started in the valley during the rule of Dimasa King Suradarpa Narayan.

Bihar

Durga Puja is one of the major festivals in Bihar. Hundreds of pandals are set up with carnivals. The city witnesses a huge gush in visitors in the four days from Maha Saptami. More than 100 pandals are setup across the city. Ancient Places of Patna Durga Puja includes Bari and Chhoti Patan Devi, Maa Shitla Mandir Agamkuan etc. Some of the popular puja pandals comprise New Dak Bunglow Road, Shiv Mandir Khajpura, Shri Krishna Puri, Durga Ashram etc.

Gujarat

Navaratri is devoted to Amba Mataji. In some homes, images of Mataji are worshipped in harmony with accepted practice. This is also true of the temples, which usually have a constant stream of visitors from morning to night. The most common form of public celebration is the performance of garbaand dandia-ras/ras-garba, Gujarat's popular folk-dance, late throughout the nights of these nine days in public squares, open grounds and streets.

Jharkhand

Durga Puja is celebrated with many carnivals. The festival mood starts from Mahalaya; a huge surge in visitors is witnessed during the last four days of the festival, arriving from cities like Jamshedpur (TATA), Ranchi, Bokaro, Dhanbad, Sisai, etc. There are so many pandals as like as at Kolkata and Cuttack which makes interesting and ecstatic in these days at there. Some of the highlighted pandals are Adityapur, Rani Kudar, Kashidih, Sakchi and many more.

Karnataka

Durga Puja is celebrated in a magnificent way in this state. In Mysore, Dussehra is simply the most popular festival. Elephants are decked up with robes and jewellery and taken in processions through the streets of the city. In fact, many people visit Mysore from all over the country to watch this colourful event. There is also a floating festival in the temple tank at the foot of Chamundi Hill and a procession of chariots around the temple at the top.

Kashmir

Hindus in Jammu and Kashmir celebrate their festivals with pomp and show. These days, festivities are more subdued. The favourite deities of Kashmir are Lord Shiva and Serawali Ma Durga, the one who rides the tiger. Pundits /Dogris and Muslims alike vouch that Navratri is important. Here each Hindu household does the puja at home. All the adult members of the household fast on water. In the evenings, fruit may be taken. As elsewhere, Dogris grow barley in earthen pots. On the last day of Navratri, an aarti is held at the temple, after which people break their fast. On Dussehra day, Ravana's effigy is burnt.

Kerala

In Kerala, Durga Puja signifies the beginning of formal education for every child aged 3–5 years. While puja goes on in the temple for all ten days, it is the concluding three days which are most important.

Thousands throng the Saraswati temple at Kottayam during this period to take a dip in the mysterious holy pond, whose source is yet unknown. Large gatherings are also seen at the famous temples at Thekkegram (Palghat), in which there are no idols, only huge mirrors. A devotee finds himself bowing before his own reflection, which symbolises that God is within us.

Thrikkavu Temple, a famous Durga Devi Temple at Ponnani, Malapuram District of Kerala, is also famous for Navaratri festival and Vidyarambham (beginning of formal education).

Madhya Pradesh

Durga Puja is celebrated in almost all towns and cities across the state. Festivities begin with the installation of idols of Durga on the first day of Winter Navaratri and culminate on the Vijayadashmi Day also celebrated as Dussehra. During these 10 days, cities and towns are decorated with pandals and cultural events are organised in every nook and corner. In fact in Madhya Pradesh one can see the mix of all cultures of India which justifies its name Madhya (Central) Pradesh (Province). Durga devotees fast for nine days and worship Lord Ram.

Maharashtra & Goa

In Maharashtra, puja is performed each day and devotees do not remove the flower garland that is put each day on the idol or image of the deity. After nine days, all nine garlands are removed together. An elephant is drawn with Rangoli, and the girls play guessing games. It is called as 'bhondala'. The pujas in Mumbai are performed in special mandals (groups) in areas like Dadar, Parel, Gwalior tank, Powai, Belapur, Chembur, Bandra, Andheri, etc.

Biswa Bharati, Bhosari is one of newly added Durga Puja in Pune, which enhance the lightening of Maa Durga. The tradition & cultural truly makes you feel that you are not in Kolkata.

Nasik boasts of four major ones celebrated by "prabashi" Bengalis'– like the ones at the Government of India Press grounds, the Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (H.A.L) in Ojhar, then the one at Artillery Station, Deolali and one in the industrial area of Satpur-Ambad.

In Goa great festivities take place in all the temples, especially Devi temples like in Shanta Durga Temple and other temples of Shree MhalasaNarayani, Shree Vijayadurga. Except temples there are Bengali Associations in Goa who celebrate Durga Puja in the traditional Bengali way. There are approximately 15 Durga Pujas conducted every year in whole Goa. The Durga Puja of Vasco's Goa Banga Committee is 46 years old as in 2012. Artisans and priests come from West Bengal.

New Delhi

The first Sarbojanin puja in Delhi was organised near Kashmiri Gate by a group of expatriate Bengalis. This group became the Delhi Durga Puja Samiti, popularly known as the Kashmiri Gate Puja. Today, over 800 pujas are held in Delhi, with a few hundred more in Gurgaon and Noida each. Today movies have given way to cultural functions, with many of the top Kolkata music artists and other cultural shows being hosted at various Delhi pandals. Chittaranjan Park has the highest density of pujas, with nine large sarbojanin pujas and several family celebrations, and the pandals reflect many Kolkata trends.

Pujas at the New Delhi Kalibari, Chittaranjan Park Kali Mandir, Greater Kailash Kali Mandir and Lajpat Nagar Puja Samity are held in a very traditional manner, following all rituals.

Tripura

In India, Durga Puja is the second biggest celebrated in this state and also the biggest celebrated festival to the people of Tripura, particularly in the Capital city of Agartala. Mainly the pujas are held in various 'paras' who have their own local clubs organising the yearly pujas. The best puja is in Agartala- Like Central Road Yuva Sangstha, Shanti kami, Shantipara, Usha Bazar, Badharghat, Pole Star, Milan Sangha, Haradhan Sangha, Lalbahadur Club, Modern Club, Ramthakur Sangha, Netaji Play Centre etc. The main centre for 'Visharjan' is the Dashamighat area of the city. Other cities where the puja takes place include Amarpur,Udaipur, Belonia, Kumarghat, Santir bazar, Sabrum, Dharmanagar

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Sandhi Pujo

September 9, 2013, 8:04 am

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Maa Durga is also known as Mahishasura Mardini. Mahishasura Mardini means annihilation of the demon. But there is one more story worth telling you about Durga Puja. Sandhi Puja that marks the passing of Ashtami (8th day of Navratri) into Navami (9th day of Navratri).This is symbolically time of dusk at which Devi Durga slayed two other asuras named Chondo and Munda. When is Sandhikhan? The last 24 minutes of Ashtami and first 24 minutes of Navami is regarded as the Sandhikhan. This is the exact time at which Devi Durga slayed the notorious pair Chando and Munda. Thus Sandhi Puja must be performed at this time every year. This time varies every year according to the Lunar calendar. Sometimes it can be as early as 8 in the evening and at other times it can draw up to the wee hours of the morning.

Sandhi Puja has special significance during Navratri Puja. It is done at the juncture when Ashtami Tithi ends and Navami Tithi starts. It is believed that Devi Chamunda was appeared during this time to kill demons Chando and Mundo.

Sandhi Puja prevails for two Ghatis which approximately lasts for 48 minutes. Sandhi Puja Muhurta might fall at any time during the day and Sandhi Puja is done during that time only

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Probasi Durga Pujo.... the international reach of Durga Maa

September 9, 2013, 11:52 pm

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United Kingdom

Durga Puja is celebrated all over UK with much gusto and enthusiasm by Bengalis from West Bengal. From north of UK, to South there are scores of Durga Puja, and these 4/5 days makes one feel part of West Bengal. The celebration includes not only the Bengalis but many other Hindus as well. During the same period, the Gujarati community also celebrates 9 nights of Puja and famous Garba community dance, culminating in to Dussera festival.

Amongst the noteworthy Pujas in London, London Sharad Utsav Puja hosted at Ealing Town Hall has attracted London's Bengalis due jovial atmosphere, well organised cultural programmes by renowned artists, and excellent food arrangements.

China

In 2004, a group of Indians residing in China came together and organised Durga puja in Shanghai. Since then it has become a yearly affair and has got bigger with active participation from the Indian and the Chinese community. The idol of Maa Durga has been brought in from Kumartuli. Every year purohit from India is flown in to perform the puja. Elaborate decorations are done at the venue to give a very distinct look of a pandal interior. Dhaks are played and Dhunuchi dances are performed. Bhog is served to all guests.

The evenings are occupied with community cultural program and performance from visiting overseas artist.

Middle East

In Muscat, Bongiyo Parishad celebrates Durga Puja with Bhog distribution (Astomi & Navami) and Anjali in Shiva Temple. Vijaya sammilani is also a part of this celebration. Hundreds of Bengalis and others are found to enjoy these days here. Traditional "Dhak" is not played here; but these days, recorded beats of "Dhak" add a separate dimension to the beats of the devotees' hearts.

USA, Europe & Australia

Durga Puja is organised by communities of Indians in the United States, Europe, and Australia. Although pandals are not constructed, the idols are flown in from Kumartuli in Bengal. The desire by the diaspora peoples to keep in touch with their cultural ties has led to a boom in religious tourism, as well as learning from priests or purohits versed in the rites. From 2006 the immersion of the Durga idol has been allowed in the Thames River for the festival which is held in London.

One of the biggest Durga Pujas in Europe takes place at the Ealing Town Hall, West London. Organised by London Sharad Utsav, this Puja has gained in popularity over the last few years, to be one of the biggest held outside the subcontinent. In 2011 they organised what they called the Global Durga Puja, whereby they showed live, the Durga Pujas of Kolkata directly at their Venue, much to the amazement and excitement of the Visitors to their Puja. They also organise the Kumari Puja, which is the ritual of worshipping a small girl as Devi Durga. Another traditional Durga Puja in held in Cardiff by Wales Puja committee. They have been doing Puja for 39 years and have twice commissioned Image making in Cardiff (2002 & 2009) by the craftsmen from Burdwan & Midnapore, West Bengal making complete Durga Protima crafted in UK.

In the United States the pujas are often hosted during weekends with few exceptions. The puja weekends are time for Bengal friends and family to gather together to spend the weekend savouring Bengali culture. Cultural programs are held; there is food; stalls selling ethnic clothes, jewellery, books, music DVD's etc. There is a general atmosphere of festivity.

In Australia, the major Durga Puja festivals were held in Sydney and Melbourne. They are also held very grandly in Perth, the capital of Western Australia. Bhog Distribution, Cultural Programmes, anjali and dhunuchi naach were the main events. In Germany several Durga Pujas are celebrated along with Bhog distribution and Anjali in Bremen, Berlin, Frankfurt, Hamburg, Köln (Cologne), Stuttgart and Munich (München).

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Eat. Pray. Love in 2013 @ Durga Pooja Bhog

September 11, 2013, 6:25 am

≫ Next: Tempt your taste buds by Mishti Doi

≪ Previous: Probasi Durga Pujo.... the international reach of Durga Maa

The city’s babu culture had once spawned a popular Bengali saying; according to which Maa Durga, during her stay preferred to have her lunch at the house of Shibkrishna Dawn then visited Abhaycharan Mitter for a change of clothes and finally proceeded to Sovabazar Rajbari to watch bai nautch. The Dawn family prepared no less than 52 dishes as part of Puja Bhog and thus spread their fame. The babus and their luxuriant lifestyle has long disappeared but a lavish spread is still very much part of the Puja rituals of the bonedi baris of the city,

In our childhood days, we had a favourite past time, teasing our old family retainer about what was being offered as bhog to Maa Durga; and as he rattled off the menu we would burst into peals of laughter imagining Maa Durga calling a cease-fire during her fight with Mahisasur and tucking in a sumptuous meal in between.
Jokes apart, Durga Puja also offers a culinary feast with both vegetarian and non-vegetarian fare offset by interludes of fasting. The delectable Puja bhog is a gastronomical enigma considering the simple ingredients used yet gratifying your taste buds to no end.
Generally, bhog in popular conception denote khichudi, prepared with sona moong dal (lentils) and atop chal (a fine variety of rice), apart from vegetables. This is also one of the best kept secrets since bhoger khichudi has an altogether distinct flavour, different from the khichudi we are served all round the year including the monsoon despite the frugal use of spices. Khichudi is an essential part of the spread offered to the goddess on Ashtami and served even at community pujas. In addition the two main stay of bhog are luchi and pulao (a foreign preparation).
The ingredients and recipes of different dishes have also evolved over the centuries proved by the fact that potato, a foreign vegetable, which thanks to the Portuguese, arrived to our country only in 1600, has also been adopted as a significant ingredient with considerable adoration.
Each bonedi family also has its own distinct rituals and custom made bhog. Apart from the usual fare of cholar dal, bandhakopir ghonto or dalna, my personal favourite is the labra, using an array of vegetables and cooked over slow fire, with little water. It is unmatched in taste yet very nutritious and fulfilling; each vegetable retains its own flavour in the medium spice mix.
While the potol or begun bhaja (fried brinjal- also a foreign origin vegetable) are favourities, chicken considered to be nishiddho pakkhi (banned meat) and prawn are not even allowed to cross the threshold of the kitchen. Rather the pride of place goes to mutton and mutton liver.
Grand old families like the one of Chhatu babu- Latu babu family offer bhog comprising luchi with vegetarian side dishes along with sweets, monda and kheer which the guests also get to taste. A special vegetarian pulao cooked in a broth of exotic spices including ginger, cinnamon, garam masala, jeera, marich, bay leaves, cardamoms and jayitri (mace) for a unique flavor is also offered. I have also tried dhokar dalna (lentils grounded in a paste, steamed and then cut into pieces to be fried and cooked in a curry) and chanar dal with nuts and raisins and found them a little overrated.
The Darjipara Mitra family specialises in pickles and daal cooked with exotic ingredients like posto (poppy seeds), coriander and tomatoes. The Deb family of the Sovabazar Rajbari has two branches (the two sons of the founder Nabakrishna Deb) which sacrifice vegetables but on ‘Navami’, sacrifice a fish. Their specialty is the famed mete chocchori, a special mutton liver dish cooked with vegetables. This dish is also a favourite of the Mullick family of Bhawanipore. In fact on Nabami quite a few families also offer meat to the goddess following old traditions although animal sacrifice no longer takes place.
Connoisseurs tell me that mete chocchori comes out best when cooked with liver of a fattened goat. Only then will the vegetables imbibe the flavours of the liver yet stay firm, while the liver itself will be tender inside but slightly stringy outside. Cooking on a low fire is crucial.
Another famous family, the Shaws of north Kolkata, have a signature ‘payesh’ (rice in sweetened milk) which is thickened so that it is served like a cake.
The Sabarna Roy Chowdhury family, the oldest of these bonedi families who owned the three villages prior to the setting up of trading post by East India Company, have a special sweet which includes potol stuffed with kheer (sweet condensed milk) and nuts. Mishti doi one of the rare Bengali specialties is also offered along with homemade sweets like patishapta or puli pitha.
In other words Durga Puja can be an exciting culinary journey from morning to night for every food connoisseur and so enjoy this Puja with a new motto: eat, pray and eat

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Tempt your taste buds by Mishti Doi

September 13, 2013, 12:10 am

≫ Next: Lorry Art Exemplifies Maa Durga at Darpanarayan Tagore Street Pally Samity 2013

≪ Previous: Eat. Pray. Love in 2013 @ Durga Pooja Bhog

Durga pooja Mishti Doi Recipe

Mishti Doi Recipe

Mishti Doi is almost synonymous to Bengalis and no celebration is complete without a bowl full of mishti doi. Learn how to make/prepare Mishti Doi by following this easy recipe.

Mishti Doi Recipe
Preparation Time	10 Minutes
Cooking Time	30 Minutes
Difficulty	Easy
Recipe Type	Veg.
Serves	Serves 8

Ingredients:

• 1 litre Milk (rich milk) • 200 g Sugar • 2 tsp Sweet Curd

How to make Mishti Doi:

•	Take a shallow bottomed pan and boil the milk.
•	Add 125g of sugar to the milk and bring it to boil again, stirring continuously, until the sugar dissolves.
•	In another heavy-bottomed pan, take the remaining 75g of sugar and melt it with water on a low flame, till brown in color.
•	Add the sugar syrup to milk and allow it to simmer for a while.
•	Cool the mixture till lukewarm.
•	Now add the curd to it and mix well.
•	Cover and allow it to set for 5-6 hours.
•	Serve chilled.

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Lorry Art Exemplifies Maa Durga at Darpanarayan Tagore Street Pally Samity 2013

September 14, 2013, 3:25 am

≫ Next: Durga pooja special recipe; bengali rosogulla

≪ Previous: Tempt your taste buds by Mishti Doi

Numerous Durga Pujas are held at North Kolkata however Darpanarayan Tagore Street Pally Samity is value stating Puja because of its chaotic location with vehicles & labours. The puja pandal is situated in Posta area of North Kolkata nearby Howrah. They are stepping into 48 years of their journey for puja and had been tremendous so far. Their punch line of this year is “Shukh Swapan –e, Shanti Darpanarayan –e”.

When we actually heard of Posta, the first picture clicks in our mind is swarm of people & vehicles all around and also the peculiarity. The breathless crowd, honking of vehicles, blaring of labours, body odour and the activities toward warehouses, made this puja location an extraordinary to the masses. The specific area is covered with multilingualism and labour class people earning their livelihood. Therefore, this year the puja committee managed to uplift the scenario of this labour class masses and their diversified culture. And this will be illustrated by the Lorry Art or Truck Art. These people are almost deprived from the flavours of happiness and prosperity of the city. The art made in the Indian trucks are absolutely astonishing and rarely seen across the sphere. The artists of this lorry design are always being kept aside and never come forefront. So it is utmost necessary to convey their artistic skills to the societies. Often we see Aashi bondhu abar dekha habe or Dekhbi aar jolbi, luchir mato fulbi and many more creative phrases in the body of a lorry.

With every kind of colours, poetries, melodies and fun; they have adorned their pandal this year in 2013. The budget of this puja pandal is approximately Rs. 12 lakhs. Debotosh Kar made the idol of Maa Durga and the pandal is being decked by Bapi Decorators from Kolaghat, Medinipur.

Swapan Basak and Gautam Kar are the Secretaries of Darpanarayan Tagore Street Pally Samity Durgotsav 2013. They both have a great optimism from this year’s theme of their puja pandal. The pandal certainly signifies the appealing sense of the respective lorry art.

So people, it’s absolutely a worth hopping pandal for you from where can we actually accustom the larger part of labour class lives and their culture to a great extent. All you have to do is just reach Malapara KKT Street Crossing and watch the electrifying theme of this puja committee. Girish Park is the nearest metro station you can actually avail.

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Durga pooja special recipe; bengali rosogulla

September 15, 2013, 7:02 am

≫ Next: Durga Maa as Creator of Earth at Rammohan Sammilani

≪ Previous: Lorry Art Exemplifies Maa Durga at Darpanarayan Tagore Street Pally Samity 2013

delicious rosogulla recipes

Ingredients

Makes : 20

6 cups milk (cow's milk is preferred)
3 tablespoons fresh lime juice
2 ½ cups sugar
6 cups water
½ teaspoon cardamom (elaichi) powder

Directions

Prep:5min › Cook:35min › Extra time:25min chilling › Ready in:1hr5min

Boil milk in a heavy bottomed pan till it starts foaming. Add lime juice and stir. It will curdle right away. You should see the milk solids (chenna) separate from the whey. Pour the chenna into a colander lined with muslin cloth. Rinse the chenna with water to get rid of the line juice. Let the water drain.
In the meantime, heat water in a pressure cooker and add sugar. Boil till sugar completely dissolves.
Gather the muslin cloth edges like a parcel and squeeze out as much water as possible. You will have soft paneer now. Turn out the paneer onto a rolling mat or other smooth surface. Knead the paneer well to make a smooth paste. Roll into a ball and divide the paneer into 20 equal portions.
Roll each portion into a smooth ball between your palms. Make sure there are no cracks. When all the balls are made, drop them gently into the hot syrup. Put the cooker lid on and bring to pressure. Reduce heat to simmer and pressure cook for 6 minutes.
Release the pressure under running water. Open the cooker lid. The rasgullas should be floating on top of the syrup and should have expanded 2 – 3 times in size. Transfer the rasgullas and syrup into a bowl. Add cardamom powder, stir gently. Refrigerate till properly chilled. Serve cold.

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Durga Maa as Creator of Earth at Rammohan Sammilani

September 16, 2013, 4:20 am

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≪ Previous: Durga pooja special recipe; bengali rosogulla

Maa Durga is also referred to as “Maa Jagat Janani” which means that mother is the creator of this earth where we are living in. With this notation, Rammohan Sammilani Durgotsav Committee of North Kolkata are setting this year’s Durga Puja theme. Maa Durga as we all know is very powerful & adamant and she is considered to be that goddess who created this earth as well as its vital components. Rammohan Sammilani is one of the oldest puja of North Kolkata where the rituals of the occasion are held with a strong aesthetic sense.

In this pandal, each & every element will resemble the creation of earth accordingly by the goddess. This will certainly catch the minds as well as the eyes of the hoppers in a distinctive way. Also there will be certain of those rudiments, which would categorise the vigour of Maa Durga. She always wants us to live in prosperity and all the evils should be extensively destroyed.

Rammohan Sammilani is going to rejoice their 69 years of journey in organising Sharadiya

Utsav in the city and as far as the sources are concerned, this year their budget is approximately Rs. 20 lakhs. The idea of the concerned theme is wholly designed & conceived by one of the famous artist Purnendu Dey. Amazingly this puja is going to be inaugurated by today’s uprising playback singers like Iman, Pratik, Arijit Singh and famous female playback singer Swagata Lakshmi on 6^thOctober.

Consequently if you folks want to get rid of the huge crowd during the festival, then it’s high time to tie the shoelace and be at the grand opening of Rammohan Sammilani on 6^th October. To reach the exact venue is pretty easy because it’s few steps away from Girish park Metro station and the nearest landmark is Rammohan Hall.

This puja committee is also organising various cultural events which will be clearly declared sooner by the Secretaries who are namely Amar Chatterjee & Anirban Sengupta. And furthermore if you all want to know more about Rammohan Sammilani, then it’s just a click away virtually (www.rammohansammilani.in) and you could also like their page in facebook.

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