Bengal is renowned for being a centre of cultural, social, intellectual, and creative excellence. It is the birthplace of numerous internationally renowned luminaries, including Satyajit Ray, Rabindranath Tagore, Swami Vivekananda, and Satyendrenath Bose to name a few (Famous Personalities of West Bengal: Icons of Culture and Excellence (youreducationportal.com)). It is during the most revered occasion in Bengal, Durga Puja, when Bengalis demonstrate the true essence of community, collective creative brilliance, and shared responsibility.
Durga puja celebration happens in the month of Ashwin (September-October), which commemorates the homecoming of Goddess Durga with her children Lakshmi, Saraswati, Kartik and Ganesh to vanquish the demon Mahishasura and it epitomizes the victory of good over evil. Maa Durga, the embodiment of motherhood in Bengali culture, is revered as a protector and caregiver who, in her core, represents women’s empowerment (Durga Puja | INDIAN CULTURE).
Durga puja represents a universal manifestation of mythology and spirituality, transcending the fundamental boundaries of faith and religion. This festival designated as one of the largest global art festival,(How Durga Puja became one of the world’s largest unofficial public arts festivals | Architectural Digest India) explores aspects of creativity, innovation and a distinctive combination of modern ideas and Indian sensibility. The immense scale and impressive splendor of Durga puja begins with the creation of idols in various regions of Bengal, including the renowned artisans’ enclave known as Kumortuli. The temporary bamboo constructions, also known as ‘Pandal‘, serve as the abode of Maa Durga during this time. Each Pandal possesses a unique storyline and the ability to communicate a distinct message to the celebrants, encapsulating a story of uniqueness and distinction.
Durga Puja is more than just a yearly festival that honors the nine forms of Maa Durga. It is a cultural fusion that combines modern concepts with Indian values. It is an artistic endeavor that relies on the participation of established artists, corporate sponsors, extensive advertising, and a willingness to explore new artistic forms and techniques. This results in an intangible experience that is conveyed through tangible expressions of art, architecture, and interior design (Durga Puja is not only a Festival – It is about Celebrating Life ( Updated 2022) – THE VAGABONG).
The Durga Puja festival is a mystical experience that eludes our senses, leaving us in awe of the colossal magnificence and sheer magnanimity. Durga Puja has been recognized by UNESCO as an one of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity (Durga Puja in Kolkata – intangible heritage – Culture Sector – UNESCO). This acknowledgment highlights the exceptional creative quality and the ability of the festival to promote inclusivity and goodwill among people.