Bengalis worldwide cannot think of an autumn without the celebration of Durga Puja. So, wherever they are, they have created a room for celebration, ushering in the Goddess in full faith, with pomp and gaiety. In fact, a group has been created on Whatsapp called The Global Connect, to talk and spread information about various pujas being hosted across the globe.
Dr Madhumati Chatterji from Protiva Mernda Durgostav in Melbourne told Asian Voice how 8-10 friends and families have come together for their first ever pujo in Mernda. Recently moved from Brisbane, this pujo is named after Madhumati’s mother Protiva.
“A friend visiting highlighted how there is no Durga puja within 50kms of where we are. So, she inspired me to start this pujo in my house. I went to Kumartuli in Kolkata with another friend and chose an idol. However, we could not manage to find a single priest (purohit) because of high demand in and around Melbourne. So, I got trained on zoom by a seasoned senior priest, who has taught me how to perform the pujo.” The rest is a collective effort where some are helping with shopping, others with cooking and running other errands related to the puja.
Utsav Dubai
As a testament to the passion and devotion of the people of Bengal, Utsav Dubai has decided to celebrate the arts and traditions of Bengal in their theme for this year’s Durga Puja. Patochitra and Kantha stich fabrics created by members of Utsav along with other traditional art forms like Dokra will adorn every corner of the mesmerising pandal.
This year's pandal of Utsav Dubai will embrace a unique design with Chandanagar lights. This is the first time a Kolkata style pandal has been created in Dubai. The centrepiece of Durga Pujo is, of course, the awe-inspiring idol of Goddess Durga. This year, the idol stands at a majestic 12 feet, intricately crafted to perfection. The sheer grandeur of the idol will leave you speechless as you gaze upon the divine mother, poised elegantly, slaying the demon Mahishasura. The artistry and craftsmanship are a testament to the dedication of the idol makers who have worked tirelessly to bring this massive masterpiece to life.
Dhakis (traditional drummers), dressed in traditional attire, have been flown in and will be performing throughout the festival, ensuring that the heartbeat of Durga Puja remains strong and vibrant in Dubai.
"Sindur Khela, the traditional ritual where married women apply sindoor (vermilion) to each other and the goddess, will mark the conclusion of Durga Puja in Dubai," said Rituparna, a member of the organising team.
Stuttgart Sarbojonin Durgapuja
Stuttgart Sarbojonin Durgapuja was conceived in the year 2020, but their first physical Puja was organised in 2021 and last year the footfall over 3 days crossed 900. Amongst the special attractions was their “Indian Food Fest” – the only one in Stuttgart during a puja and a star attraction for Indians and Germans alike.
In 2023 too it promises to have a range of delicacies from North Indian, South Indian and exclusive Bengali cuisines and have a full packed programme with members. But the main attraction is the live concert by Arko Mukhaerjee, a famed urban folk artist and world music researcher who sings in 15 languages of the world.
This year Puja is also being hosted by Lusaka Bengali Community Zambia Foundation in Zambia, Guadalaraja Durga Puja in Mexico, Utrecht Sarbojonin Utsav Committee (USUC) in Netherlands and Houston Durga Bari Society in Texas to name a few.
