Balurghat, Oct. 15 -- Along the Zero Line of the Indo-Bangladesh border, the sound of conch shells, gongs and bells echoed to welcome Goddess Durga, transforming the remote border hamlet into a vibrant hub of devotion. Unlike typical festive celebrations, the festivities at Ucha Gobindpur village under Hili Police Station bring together residents and Border Security Force (BSF) personnel, momentarily softening the strict vigil maintained along the barbed-wire fence.

The village's traditional Durga Puja originated in 1951. Decades later, when the international border fence was erected 150 meters inside Indian territory, Ucha Gobindpur found itself situated beyond the main fence, just meters from the zero line. This year marks the landmark 75th edition of the historic Puja. Decorators erected temporary sheds for visitors, while bright light installations illuminated the pandal and the surrounding village lanes.

Although strict security protocols usually govern the border, BSF authorities relax certain restrictions during the festival. While maintaining enhanced vigilance to prevent untoward incidents, BSF jawans actively participate in the rituals, offering bhog, accepting prasad and joining the villagers in celebration.

"Following the traditions passed down from our ancestors, we organised the Durga Puja with intense preparations for idol craftsmanship, pandal building and lighting. From commanding officers to jawans, everyone joins us, creating a warm bond of harmony that transforms this border post into a joyful union," said Atul Chandra Mandal, secretary of the Ucha Gobindpur Puja Committee.

For the local population, the event offers a rare respite from daily border tensions. A resident living on the Indian side of the fence noted how the festival bridges physical divides and eases long-standing border anxieties.

"Since this is the only Puja in our immediate area, people from both sides gather here to celebrate together. The festival helps us forget daily hardships, allowing everyone to breathe a sigh of relief," the resident shared.

Published by HT Digital Content Services with permission from Millennium Post.