What Happened When Harsh Vardhan Shringla Inaugurated the Durga Puja Pandal?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Durga Puja celebrates the victory of good over evil.
- Inaugurated by Harsh Vardhan Shringla in Bagdogra.
- Features artistic displays and community engagement.
- Highlights unity and patriotism among locals.
- Significant cultural event in West Bengal.
In Bagdogra (West Bengal), on September 29, Rajya Sabha MP and former Foreign Secretary Harsh Vardhan Shringla officially opened the Durga Puja pandal of the Bagdogra Bibadi Natya Bohumukhi Sangstha, highlighting images related to Operation Sindoor and Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s birthday celebrations showcased across various pandals.
Shringla toured multiple pandals in the region on that Sunday and shared his appreciation for the artistic brilliance and festive enthusiasm.
"Today, we visited many places filled with vibrant festival spirit and witnessed the creativity of artists. We plan to head to Siliguri next," he remarked.
"The enthusiasm among the people is palpable. The artists and their creations are unparalleled. Each pandal presents its unique charm, and we aspire to see such zeal in all of them,” he added.
Shringla also commented on the patriotic themes he observed during the celebrations.
"In numerous pandals, we encountered displays of Operation Sindoor and images of PM Modi celebrating his birthday. Many locals expressed their support for the armed forces and Operation Sindoor. This illustrates the unity we experience in times of adversity. I feel immense happiness witnessing this solidarity," he stated.
Durga Puja is deeply meaningful as it commemorates the victory of good over evil, symbolizing Goddess Durga’s conquest over the demon Mahishasura. This festival promotes cultural unity and brings families together, emphasizing themes of courage, strength, and femininity. It stands as a significant cultural event in West Bengal and beyond, showcasing art, music, dance, and community spirit through elaborate rituals and public festivities.
The celebration encompasses scripture recitations, performance arts, merriment, gift exchanges, family reunions, feasting, public processions, and fairs. It kicks off with Mahalaya, honoring Durga’s return to her maternal home with her children. The main rituals commence on the sixth day (Sashti) and continue until the tenth day (Vijaya Dashami).
Durga Puja is a vital cultural festival in India, particularly in the eastern states like West Bengal, Kolkata, Bihar, Tripura, Assam, and Odisha. Celebrated during Sharadiya Navratri, typically in September-October, the festival starts from the Sashti Tithi of Shukla Paksha and concludes with Durga Visarjan on Vijaya Dashami. This year, Durga Puja commenced on September 27 and will finish on October 2.