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US Envoy Embraces Kolkata's Durga Puja Spirit
13 Oct
Summary
- US Ambassador visited Kolkata's Durga Puja pandals on October 12.
- He praised the festival's creativity, community spirit, and warmth.
- UNESCO recognized Kolkata's Durga Puja as intangible cultural heritage.
US Ambassador to India, Sergio Gor, recently immersed himself in the festive spirit of Kolkata's Durga Puja. His visit to various pandals on October 12 provided a firsthand experience of the celebration's unique blend of artistry and community engagement. Gor expressed his appreciation for the incredible creativity and warmth evident in the pandal designs and the overall atmosphere.
This annual festival holds profound cultural significance in West Bengal, with Kolkata serving as a prominent hub. Months of dedicated effort by local communities, artists, and craftspeople culminate in visually stunning pandals, each showcasing distinct themes and intricate decorations. The tradition of pandal-hopping also strengthens social bonds, as people gather with family and friends.
Further underscoring its global importance, UNESCO inscribed Durga Puja in Kolkata on its Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity in December 2021. The festival is a testament to the power of collective celebration, combining artistic expression with deep-rooted community spirit.
