Kolkata's renowned Durga Puja is set to embrace a poignant theme this year: the "torture" and plight of Bengalis. Several Puja committees are preparing to highlight the alleged persecution of Bengali-speaking Indians in various states, focusing on how attempts to brand them as "Bangladeshis" undermine their contributions to Indian society. This theme will underscore the rich heritage of Bengal, the struggles of migrant workers, and the significant cultural and historical contributions of prominent Bengalis.
Several puja committees, ranging from established organizers to new participants, will spotlight the "harassment" faced by migrant workers simply for speaking Bengali. Behala's Adarshapally Club will depict the hardships endured by Bengali refugees during the Partition. Baguiati Ashwininagar Bandhumahal plans to trace Bengal's history back 42,000 years, showcasing the region's ancient roots. Chaltabagan Sarbojonin, in its 81st year, has chosen 'Ami Banglay Bolchhi (I am speaking in Bangla)' as its theme, with the pandal located near the house of poet Dwijendralal Roy. According to organizer Mousam Banerjee, their pandal will concentrate on the oppression of Bengalis. Sanjay Das, chief organizer of the puja at Dum Dum Road Hanuman Mandir Jayashree Club, stated that their theme will address the illegal deportation of Bengali speakers to Bangladesh and the denial of their basic rights based on their language.
Bandhumahal, celebrating its 45th year, will present 'Bangla o Bangali. Banglar Itihaas (Bengal and Bengalis. History of Bengal)' as its theme. Installations of notable figures like Rabindranath Tagore, Ishwar Chandra Vidyasagar, and Raja Ram Mohan Roy will be featured in their pandal. Swarup Nag, the club secretary, emphasized that Durga Puja has evolved beyond idol-viewing and prayers, becoming a globally recognized festival with themes that resemble comprehensive thesis papers.
West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee has urged Durga Puja organizers to support migrant laborers returning to Bengal due to harassment in other states. She has requested that puja organizers and local administrations provide new clothes to those returning, stating that they should not tolerate such treatment. Banerjee has also increased the state grant for Durga Puja committees to Rs 1.1 lakh and raised the concession on electricity bills to 80%.
Other puja committees are also preparing diverse and thought-provoking themes for Durga Puja 2025. Jagat Mukherjee Park's Durga Puja will explore whether Artificial Intelligence (AI) is a boon or a curse, using spectacular pandals and artistic idol designs to question society's reliance on AI. The Ekdalia Evergreen Club's Durga Puja will draw inspiration from the Arunachaleswarar Temple of Tamil Nadu, recreating its ethereal architecture. Tala Prattoy has chosen the unconventional theme of 'bjeetganit' or Algebra, aiming to present the stimulating concept of Algebra to visitors. College Square Durga Puja 2025 will showcase the Cambodia Angkor Wat Temple as its theme.
Kolkata Police commissioner Manoj Verma has announced that the Asaan Durga Puja permission portal will be operational from August 22. CM Banerjee has also instructed the police to review puja themes with organizers, advising against themes that could cause stampedes. She stressed that public safety should not be compromised in the effort to attract crowds.
