105 Years of Tradition: PWD Puja Embraces Heritage

The PWD Durga Puja Committee in Patna is celebrating its 105th anniversary by honoring traditional Bengali heritage, focusing on the homecoming of Goddess Durga. The chosen theme, 'Bonedi Bari Dalan', meticulously recreates the ancestral courtyards historically associated with Durga Puja in Bengal's zamindar families. This theme resonates deeply with the long-standing legacy of the committee, now in its third generation of continuous celebration.

The pandal design incorporates a red-and-white color scheme, complemented by hand-drawn 'alpana,' bamboo hand fans, and traditional Bengali windows. Decorative elements include 'chaandmala' ornaments and a suspended 'chadoa' canopy, with artist Shailav Das integrating bamboo plates, woven winnowing trays, and 'patachitra' folk paintings into the decor. The 10-foot 'ekchala' idol, crafted by Nimai Pal, depicts Goddess Durga and her children within a single frame, symbolizing familial unity.

Biodegradable materials are exclusively used for both the idol and the pandal construction, reflecting a commitment to sustainability. Preparations commence annually after August 15, with committee members dedicating Sundays to planning. Festivities begin on Sasthi post-'Bodhan,' featuring an 'Anandmela' with homemade food and musical performances. Folk artists are invited, with a performer from Rajasthan scheduled for Saptami.

Further events include sit-and-draw contests on Ashtami and quizzes on Navami. Traditional rituals like 'bodhan,' 'sandhi puja,' 'boron,' and 'sindoor khela' are observed. Culinary delights include pakodas and aaloo chaap from Saptami, alongside the distribution of free 'bhog' and 'prasad.' The committee annually collects and distributes around 500-600 tiffin boxes of festive offerings on Navami.