Culture, Celebration, and Community: A Spectacular Durga Puja at Hudco Kalibari
Bhilai, Rabindra Niketan Hudco Kalibari celebrated Durga Puja this year with grandeur, devotion, and cultural fervor, drawing large crowds from across the city. The festivities, spread over five days, beautifully blended religious rituals with vibrant cultural programmes, making it a memorable event for the entire Bengali community and beyond.
The women’s wing, Durgoti Nashini, played a pivotal role in organizing and coordinating the celebrations, ensuring the success of each event.
The celebrations commenced on Panchami with a drawing and painting competition, witnessing enthusiastic participation from nearly 49 children across four age groups. The following day, Shashti, saw lively performances by children in dance, song, and abritti (recitation), captivating the audience.
On Saptami, the renowned group Sursaptak took center stage with a mesmerizing musical performance. Ashtami featured the traditional Dhunuchi Naach, a devotional dance with incense burners, followed by an enthralling musical evening by reputed artists, including the esteemed Pandit Ulhas.
Navami marked a blend of devotion and music, with a special Yagya Havan and Shondhi Puja. A local music group also performed, adding to the festive spirit. The celebrations concluded on Dashami with Durga Visarjan, as devotees bid farewell to Goddess Durga with heavy hearts and emotional fervor. Elders blessed the younger generation, wishing them a happy and healthy life ahead.
Distinguished guests graced the occasion, including SDM Madam Ms. Jha, MLA Bhilai Rikesh Sen accompanied by his wife, and Ms. Richa Sen. They participated in the traditional Devi Baran and Sindoor Khela rituals, symbolizing the Goddess’s departure and the power of womanhood.
Several competitions such as Ulu and Shankho Dhwani, Alpona, Best Out of Waste, and Mythological Quizzes were also held, aiming to instill cultural and religious values among participants, especially the youth.
The Bengali community came together with great zeal and enthusiasm, reaffirming their deep-rooted cultural traditions. The celebrations didn’t end with Dashami—Kojagori Lakshmi Puja was observed on October 6 with devotion, and the community now eagerly awaits Kali Puja, which promises to draw a large number of devotees as well.
