Balurghat, Oct. 12 -- With Durga Puja around the corner, prominent Puja committees across Balurghat town are gearing up to captivate pandal-hoppers through a diverse blend of environmental awareness, rich cultural heritage and gratitude for the workmen. From the plight of local rivers and fading traditional crafts to eco-conscious post offices and tributes to working-class communities, this year's thematic setups promise a uniquely enriching experience for visitors.
Marking its 53rd year, Balurghat Shibtali Club is highlighting the past and present of the Atreyee River under its theme 'Probahini'. Shibtali Club Secretary Sarbik Chakraborty said: "Balurghat Shibtali Club always conveys meaningful social messages. This year, we depict how the Atreyee and other district rivers can be preserved."
Celebrating its 61st anniversary, Srijani Sangha and Library Club is bringing a slice of Bankura to Balurghat by centering its setup on traditional terracotta art and Bishnupur temple architecture.
Puja Secretary Aryan De noted: "Last year, we focused on greening through eco-friendly material, and prior to that, Dokra art was presented. This year, our goal is to bring terracotta art before the public."
Club Secretary Arindam Chanda added: "Our idea is to showcase this Bengali craft featuring multiple burnt-clay artworks."
Meanwhile, Chakbhrigu Pragati Sangha, entering its 67th year, has designed an eco-conscious pandal modeled after a traditional Indian post office,
utilising plywood, bamboo, wood, fruit seeds and grain stalks.
Club Secretary Sanjay Saha stated: "Our objective in using seeds and stalks is to send a message of making mother earth greener.
Just as birds inadvertently drop seeds to promote greening, humans
too should think about nature." Puja Committee Secretary
At Mahamaya Club's 73rd edition, the theme 'Shram' pays tribute to working-class individuals through artistic installations made of terracotta models, tin, bamboo, iron rods and burlap.
Puja Secretary Bishnupada Mondal said: "The contribution of laborers is essential in daily life. Our theme aims to recognise their work by displaying their arduous lifestyle."
Published by HT Digital Content Services with permission from Millennium Post.