‘A tribute to
know-how of
‘
The upcoming BARSHA Bengali Association pandal will be a combination of Greek elegance and Bengali heritage. “This year’s pandal celebrates the skill of the artisans of Karnataka, who have dedicated over six months to create a masterpiece combining the grace of Greek architecture with the rich tapestry of cultural heritage of the Bengal,” said Priyanka of BARSHA. The association has also planned a daily laser show that will trace the journey of Chandrayaan-3 and the cosmic dance of Shiva Tandava across the night sky.
An artist from Bengaluru works on clay idols of Goddess Durga ahead of the puja. Credit: Ratheesh Sundaram
“Calcutta’s rich heritage in focus”
The theme of the Green Glen Layout Cultural Association is “Thakurdalan” or the temples located in the palatial homes of the Bengali elite in the 18th and 19th centuries. The open space in front of the Thakurdalan would be called the “Natmandir” where cultural performances would take place. “Thematic structures are set up by our member families, made up of children, housewives and working professionals. The members conceptualize, design, architect and erect the structures over the years,” explains Tathagata Sengupta, secretary of the Green Glen Layout Cultural Association.
I am a Bengali born and brought up in Bangalore. Like many others here, I grew up with both cultures ingrained in me. Our cultural programs are also influenced by Kannada culture. You have puja pandals inspired by Hoysala architecture as well as yakshagana performances. Overall, we love our Anna Sambar as much as our Dal Bhaath.
Rahul Thakurta, Cultural Samithi of North Bangalore
“Young people will lead the celebrations”
Meanwhile, Rahul Thakurta of North Bangalore Cultural Samithi says, “To commemorate 46 years of Durga Puja celebrations, our decor will revolve around Chandi Paath which will be displayed on massive scrolls around the idol. Also, for the first time this year, the samithi is led by young people. »
Bengaluru is a melting pot of culture and we see Kannadigas accepting everyone with open arms. Around 75 years ago, Bengaluru had only one Durga Puja, today the number stands at over 150 to 200 pujas in the city. This is an indication of the warmth Bengaluru has given to cultural diversity. Also, if you look at our history, there is a sweet connection. Ballala Sena, who was a king of medieval Bengal, was married to Princess Chalukya Rama, devi of Karnataka. So he was the son-in-law of Karnataka.
Subhra Goswami, Green Glen Layout Cultural Association
Idols inspired by the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Karnataka
This year, the East Indian Social HSR Association (EISHA) has chosen to highlight the Hoysala Temple of Halebid in Karnataka which was recently declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site thanks to its pandal. “Our aim is to bring out the cultures of Kannadigas and Bengalis. The idols of the Halebid temples of Karnataka are different from the traditional Bengali idols: they are carved in stone, the postures are different, the ornaments are different. We want to highlight these aspects,” says Sudipta Mukhopadhyay.
An artist works on a sculpture inspired by Hoysala architecture. Credit: Ratheesh Sundaram
Bangalore hosts over 150 puja pandals
Bengaluru usually hosts around 150 to 200 Durga Puja pandals. This year, more than 150 pandals are expected in different areas of the city. Associations in Bangalore have their own theme and unique way of celebrating the festival. Dandiya events, music and food stalls are a must-see for every celebration.
