West Bengal CM Suvendu Adhikari inaugurates Chorebagan Sarbojanin Durgotsab Samity’s 91st Durga Puja
West Bengal CM Suvendu Adhikari unveils the 91st Durga Puja of Chorebagan Sarbojanin Durgotsab Samity in Kolkata with the theme Beyond Sound.
In a grand celebration of faith and artistry, West Bengal Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari officially inaugurated the 91st Durga Puja of the Chorebagan Sarbojanin Durgotsab Samity in Kolkata on Monday.
The festivities, located near Ram Mandir and C.R. Avenue, center around a unique and immersive theme titled “Beyond Sound.” Designed to offer a sanctuary from the chaotic urban noise of the city, the pandal aims to transport devotees into a space of deep introspection and spiritual peace.
A Theme of Tranquillity: Beyond Sound
Conceptualised by renowned artist Susanta Sibani Paul, the "Beyond Sound" theme is a sophisticated blend of lighting, music, spatial design, and specific materials. The goal is to create an environment where the presence of Goddess Durga is felt through a sensory experience that transcends mere auditory stimulation.
Pritam Sarkar, the cultural secretary of the Chorebagan Sarbojanin Durgotsab Samity, explained that the committee sought to bring a fresh artistic perspective to their 91-year legacy. “By bringing together sound, light, and Maa Durga, we have created a different kind of ambience,” Sarkar said, inviting all visitors to seek the blessings of the Mother Goddess.
Massive Surge in Puja Celebrations
During his address, Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari noted the unprecedented scale of the festival this year. He revealed that the state has seen a significant increase in the number of celebrations, with 12,400 new Durga Puja permissions granted this year.
This brings the total number of pujas across West Bengal to 57,400, a substantial rise from the 45,000 recorded in the previous year. Adhikari highlighted the adherence to tradition, noting that celebrations are strictly following the Devi Paksha as per religious scriptures.
“This is the atmosphere of Durga Puja. It is a spiritual atmosphere, a cultural atmosphere, and an atmosphere of tradition,” the Chief Minister remarked.
Honouring the Voice of Mahalaya
The inauguration was not just about the festivities but also about preserving the cultural heritage of Bengal. Chief Organiser Prosenjit Saha mentioned that the Chief Minister conveyed a significant message regarding the naming of a road after Birendra Krishna Bhadra. The legendary broadcaster's voice remains synonymous with the Mahalaya chants that signal the arrival of the Goddess.
Safety and Devotion
As the 91st edition of the puja unfolds, the organisers have placed a heavy emphasis on:
- Crowd Management: Ensuring smooth movement for the thousands expected to visit.
- Visitor Safety: Implementing measures to maintain a peaceful environment.
- Spiritual Connection: Using the "Beyond Sound" concept to help devotees move from city noise to moments of reflection.
The pandal has been open to the public since Chaturthi, following government guidelines, and continues to draw crowds eager to experience the blend of heritage and modern artistic innovation.