Kolkata's Pujo: More Than Just Festivities, It's Theatre

Kolkata's Durga Puja is characterized by an inherent theatricality, with streets and pandals becoming stages for elaborate displays, a sentiment keenly felt by actor-director Ramanjit Kaur. For her and her artistic community at the Creative Arts Academy, the festival's commencement is marked by the 'Pujo Poetry Adda,' an event that has been a cornerstone for celebrating original verse since its inception in 2010.

This annual gathering has evolved into a significant cultural fixture, bringing together poets from diverse linguistic backgrounds. Each edition is curated around a specific theme, ensuring a fresh yet cohesive experience that highlights various voices and perspectives, making poetry an integral part of the festive season.

For Kaur, Durga Puja transcends mere celebration; it serves as a profound occasion to contemplate the strength of women. The way the Creative Arts Academy observes the goddess's homecoming reinforces their year-round commitment to women's empowerment, imbuing the festival with personal significance.

Family pandal-hopping excursions are a cherished ritual, with a particular appreciation for the artistic craftsmanship, imaginative themes, and inventive details that transform the city. Comfort in attire and indulgence in traditional Bengali cuisine, like luchi and aloo dum, are key aspects of the celebration.