KOLKATA: West Bengal Transport Corporation (WBTC) has launched a special scheme trams with revamped interior and exterior designs, in sync with Bengal’s biggest festival, to celebrate the tag of intangible cultural heritage Durga Puja on the occasion of the 150th anniversary of the tramway. The trial of these special trams, which will run from Tollygunge to Ballygunge and vice-versa until the end of the year, took place on Friday.
Kolkata’s iconic trams, which have been part of the city’s landscape since 1873, are not just a mode of transportation but a symbol of the city’s rich history and enduring charm. The trams on the Tollygunge route have been strategically chosen as the route is dotted with some historic and grandiose Puja pandals, making it an ideal canvas for this transformation. WBTC Chairman Madan Mitra said, “WBTC has partnered with Asian Paints, known for its Sharad Samman in Kolkata. This tram is a heritage tribute to the Puja spirit of the city. WBTC Managing Director Rajanvir Singh Kapur said, “Durga Puja has provided a magnificent backdrop for this unique tramway. »
The tram’s first bogie features stunning hand-painted artwork paying homage to Kumartuli, the traditional idol-making and pottery district of North Kolkata. The painting beautifully captures the scenes of ‘Sindoor Khela’ and ‘Dhunuchi naach’, the eternal symbols of the festival. Additionally, this section of the tram also highlights unique stories, including the inspiring journey of a visually impaired artist with exceptional skills and the courageous women ‘dhakis’ who are challenging the traditionally male-dominated performing arts scene.
Inside the bogie, passengers are greeted with Puja-themed decor, intricate ‘Alpona’ artwork and a visual narrative reminiscent of a museum.
Interactive elements and QR codes allow visitors to delve deeper into the heartwarming stories of the “People of Puja” while enjoying their tram ride.
Boarding the second bogie is like entering a time machine that transports passengers to a bygone era of heritage and grandeur in Kolkata. The exteriors are adorned with elements inspired by the rich culture and iconic monuments of West Bengal. The artwork on this section of the tram depicts the dramatic elements of the famous Puja symbols. Amidst changing styles, trends and attitudes, an unwavering spirit of celebration has remained constant in Bengal.
We have also recently published the following articles
Kolkata’s iconic trams, which have been part of the city’s landscape since 1873, are not just a mode of transportation but a symbol of the city’s rich history and enduring charm. The trams on the Tollygunge route have been strategically chosen as the route is dotted with some historic and grandiose Puja pandals, making it an ideal canvas for this transformation. WBTC Chairman Madan Mitra said, “WBTC has partnered with Asian Paints, known for its Sharad Samman in Kolkata. This tram is a heritage tribute to the Puja spirit of the city. WBTC Managing Director Rajanvir Singh Kapur said, “Durga Puja has provided a magnificent backdrop for this unique tramway. »
The tram’s first bogie features stunning hand-painted artwork paying homage to Kumartuli, the traditional idol-making and pottery district of North Kolkata. The painting beautifully captures the scenes of ‘Sindoor Khela’ and ‘Dhunuchi naach’, the eternal symbols of the festival. Additionally, this section of the tram also highlights unique stories, including the inspiring journey of a visually impaired artist with exceptional skills and the courageous women ‘dhakis’ who are challenging the traditionally male-dominated performing arts scene.
Inside the bogie, passengers are greeted with Puja-themed decor, intricate ‘Alpona’ artwork and a visual narrative reminiscent of a museum.
Interactive elements and QR codes allow visitors to delve deeper into the heartwarming stories of the “People of Puja” while enjoying their tram ride.
Boarding the second bogie is like entering a time machine that transports passengers to a bygone era of heritage and grandeur in Kolkata. The exteriors are adorned with elements inspired by the rich culture and iconic monuments of West Bengal. The artwork on this section of the tram depicts the dramatic elements of the famous Puja symbols. Amidst changing styles, trends and attitudes, an unwavering spirit of celebration has remained constant in Bengal.
We have also recently published the following articles
Bengaluru prepares to welcome Durga: heritage of Karnataka and West Bengal at the center of this puja
As Durga Puja approaches, artisans create idols of deities and the Bengali community prepares to celebrate the festival. The BARSHA Bengali Association pandal will combine Greek elegance with Bengali heritage, showcasing the skills of the artisans of Karnataka. The Green Glen Layout Cultural Association will focus on temples located in the homes of the Bengali elite, while the North Bangalore Cultural Samithi will highlight the Chandi Paath. The HSR East India Social Association will display idols inspired by the Halebid temple of Karnataka. Bangalore is expected to host over 150 Durga Puja pandals with various themes and festivities this year.
As Durga Puja approaches, artisans create idols of deities and the Bengali community prepares to celebrate the festival. The BARSHA Bengali Association pandal will combine Greek elegance with Bengali heritage, showcasing the skills of the artisans of Karnataka. The Green Glen Layout Cultural Association will focus on temples located in the homes of the Bengali elite, while the North Bangalore Cultural Samithi will highlight the Chandi Paath. The HSR East India Social Association will display idols inspired by the Halebid temple of Karnataka. Bangalore is expected to host over 150 Durga Puja pandals with various themes and festivities this year.
Indian and Dutch artists collaborate in Kolkata for the preview of Durga Puja Art 2023
Urban organization MassArt, in partnership with UNESCO and the British Council, is organizing the preview of Durga Puja Art 2023. This event is part of the celebration of the 20th anniversary of the convention for the safeguarding of intangible cultural heritage. Artists from the Netherlands and India have collaborated for the first time to create Durga Puja art. The preview exhibition will feature installations from three categories: Contemporary Durga Puja Art, Traditional Durga Puja Art and Bonedi Barir Pujo Art. This collaboration celebrates the fusion of cultures and the divine feminine energy of Goddess Durga.
Urban organization MassArt, in partnership with UNESCO and the British Council, is organizing the preview of Durga Puja Art 2023. This event is part of the celebration of the 20th anniversary of the convention for the safeguarding of intangible cultural heritage. Artists from the Netherlands and India have collaborated for the first time to create Durga Puja art. The preview exhibition will feature installations from three categories: Contemporary Durga Puja Art, Traditional Durga Puja Art and Bonedi Barir Pujo Art. This collaboration celebrates the fusion of cultures and the divine feminine energy of Goddess Durga.
The art of Durga Puja takes a global touch
The UNESCO intangible cultural heritage listing for Durga Puja in Kolkata has led to a global collaboration, with two graduates from a Dutch art university working with artist Ayan Saha to create Durga Puja art. Natun Dal, one of the shortlisted pujas, will feature a phuchka theme, symbolizing contentment. Martyna Pekala and Benjamin Pompe collaborated on a video installation, representing the diverse cultures of Kolkata through their artistic lens. Tourists from Europe, Australia and the United States are expected to visit Kolkata to experience the festival and art.
The UNESCO intangible cultural heritage listing for Durga Puja in Kolkata has led to a global collaboration, with two graduates from a Dutch art university working with artist Ayan Saha to create Durga Puja art. Natun Dal, one of the shortlisted pujas, will feature a phuchka theme, symbolizing contentment. Martyna Pekala and Benjamin Pompe collaborated on a video installation, representing the diverse cultures of Kolkata through their artistic lens. Tourists from Europe, Australia and the United States are expected to visit Kolkata to experience the festival and art.
