“Whose White House?” a child’s voice piped up, tugging at her mother’s sari in front of Alipore Sarbojanin. It was Durga Puja time in Kolkata, and the Alipore Sarbojanin pandal had everyone talking. Alipore Sarbojanin, known for its elaborate displays, had truly outdone itself this year. For its 56th anniversary, the pandal was a replica of the White House, but with a distinctly Bengali twist. The goddess Durga, resplendent in her traditional finery, presided over the scene. But instead of her usual weapons, she held symbols representing water conservation. This was Alipore Sarbojanin’s message to the world: Jal Hi Jeevan Hai, water is life. The theme resonated deeply with the community, reminding everyone of the precious resource. While the White House replica drew gasps of admiration, the underlying message of water conservation sparked conversations. Alipore Sarbojanin had successfully blended tradition with contemporary concerns, creating a Durga Puja experience that was both visually stunning and thought-provoking.
Nazrul Tirtha
Remembering Kazi Nazrul Islam, the rebel poet of Bengal. That is why Nazrul Tirtha was established in May 2014. It