Kolkata, Oct. 9 -- The city is gearing up for Mahalaya, with Eden Gardens set to host the much-publicised afternoon programme. Red Road and adjoining areas are also being decked up with decorative lighting, heralding the countdown to Durga Puja.
For Kolkata, Mahalaya is more than just a date on the calendar. It is an emotional transition from the monsoon to the season of celebration, when the city begins to immerse itself in the spirit of Durga Puja.
With Eden Gardens ready for the occasion and Red Road aglow, the countdown to the biggest festival of Bengal is gathering momentum.
Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari said the event is expected to set new records, with thousands of drummers and conch blowers participating and around 45,000 people expected to attend.
The show will feature 30,000 drones and lasers to mesmerise the audience. A rehearsal was held on Friday. The illumination of prominent roads and public spaces is adding to the festive atmosphere in the heart of the city as Kolkata prepares to welcome Goddess Durga. Red Road, a major ceremonial stretch, and its adjoining areas are being decked up to create a vibrant backdrop for the celebrations.
The BJP government has planned the event as a cultural spectacle featuring around 10,000 dhakis and 1,000 women, along with traditional performances, 3D projection mapping, drone displays and fireworks.
Eden Gardens, meanwhile, is set to draw attention with its Mahalaya programme, which will be attended by Governor RN Ravi as the chief guest.
Mahalaya, which traditionally marks the symbolic beginning of Durga Puja festivities, is set to be a special occasion this year.
The pre-dawn observance holds a special place in Bengali culture, with the strains of Mahishasura Mardini and the invocation of the goddess forming an integral part of the occasion for generations.
The lighting arrangements across Kolkata are expected to add to the festive mood as the city prepares to welcome an influx of visitors to prominent pandals.
Meanwhile, PM Modi, and Union Home minister Amit Shah, who were earlier scheduled to attend the gala programme, have given the event a miss.
Published by HT Digital Content Services with permission from Millennium Post.