Siliguri, Oct. 11 -- Siliguri's historic Mitra Sammilani is taking a nostalgic route this year as its puja enters its centenary year. Established in 1909, the club began its Durga Puja celebrations in 1927. This year, the pandal will recreate old Siliguri, showcasing the city's history, traditional modes of transport and the festive spirit.
A major attraction will be a replica of the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway (DHR) to be installed on Hill Cart Road in front of the club entrance. The installation will revive memories of the time when the DHR train ran past Mitra Sammilani. The pandal will also feature cut-outs and structures depicting royalty arriving in the city and ordinary people travelling in bullock carts and horse-drawn carriages to attend the puja.
The club's history is closely linked to Siliguri's development. When the puja began, Siliguri's population was estimated at around 6,000, with people from surrounding tea gardens and villages travelling by bullock carts to join the celebrations.
Mitra Sammilani also holds a significant place in the region's cultural history. Its stage and auditorium once hosted legendary theatre personalities, including Shambhu Mitra, Utpal Dutta and Sisir Bhaduri. During the puja, theatrical performances were held throughout the night for three consecutive days. Although the historic stage has lost some of its former grandeur, the puja committee is working to revive its cultural legacy.
Saurav Bhattacharya, secretary of Mitra Sammilani, said: "This year, we will showcase the memories of old Durga Puja celebrations and the historical moments associated with Siliguri. However, despite entering its centenary year, there will be no changes to our traditional rituals. The customary single-frame idol and the traditional natmandir-style puja will be retained.
The Ashtami bhog will also remain one of the major attractions."
Meanwhile, the Central Colony Durga Puja Committee in Siliguri is marking its 64th year with a major attraction featuring Goddess Durga and her family adorned with 100 kg of gold jewellery valued at approximately Rs 140 crore, organised in collaboration with a jewellery brand. Extensive security arrangements will be in place to safeguard the gold ornaments.
Similarly, Kawakhali Janakalyan Sangha club will recreate Bangkok's iconic Wat Arun Temple with a massive 100-foot pandal using eco-friendly materials, jute, and bamboo.
Published by HT Digital Content Services with permission from Millennium Post.