Durga Puja in Bardhaman

Our member, Ms C. Neogi, shares her cherished memories of Durga Puja in Bardhaman, where her family has observed the tradition for nearly 250 years.

Every year, for Durga Puja, I travel to Indas, in Bardhaman, to my husband’s maternal uncle’s house, where the festival has been celebrated for close to 250 years. The history of this family puja is remarkable. A few generations ago, the patriarch of the family dreamt of Goddess Durga and Mahadeb (Shiva) who instructed him to begin their worship at home. A unique design was conceived: Shiva would be placed beside Durga and her children. With the festival just around the corner, the idols had to be prepared in double quick time.

When the days of worship arrived, the clay on the idols was still wet. The family had to think fast. They lit a fire to dry the idols in its heat. The plan worked, but the fire left a mark on the idol of the goddess. That mark became a part of a tradition, and even today it is drawn on the image of Durga.

From the very first puja right up to the end of the last century, the worship would take place in a thatched-roof hut. A couple of decades ago, the family built a thakurdalan (a semi-open verandah space), where the puja is now conducted.

All the food during the days of the festival is home-cooked. Nothing is roasted or burnt at night, so chapatis are not made. Vegetarian meals are prepared up until Ashtami. On Nabami, non-vegetarian food returns with a fish preparation. Only after Ekadashi do chicken and mutton find their way back to our plates.
As I think about it all, memories of togetherness come rushing back. I can’t wait to return to Bardhaman this year and welcome the goddess once again with my near and dear ones. (as narrated to Support Elders by our member)

(as narrated to Support Elders by our member)