“Durga Pujo!” a vibrant exclamation echoes through the air. Here at Behala Young, the energy is palpable.
Behala Young is more than just a Durga Puja celebration. It is a cultural phenomenon deeply rooted in Kolkata’s history. It is a testament to community spirit.
Picture this scene. It is not just a festival. It is a homecoming. Bengalis return to their roots. Families reunite. New friendships begin. Decades ago, Durga Puja celebrations began in Behala. The Sabarna Roy Choudhury family launched their Barisha puja in 1610. Lakshmikanta Majumdar started it. This makes it the second oldest family Durga Puja in western Bengal.
Today, Behala Young showcases exotic theme-based sarbojanin pujas. These community pujas embrace creativity. They reflect contemporary issues. Each year brings fresh themes.
The Durga Puja at Behala Young is a sensory overload. Imagine vibrant colours. Hear the rhythmic beats of dhak drums. Smell the fragrant incense. Taste delicious street food. Feel the excitement.
Behala itself has a rich past. Some believe the name “Behala” comes from Behula. She is the protagonist of Manasamangalkavya. Others say it comes from “Bahulapur.” This means “land of many rivers.” “Bahula” is also an epithet for goddesses Chandi and Kali.
Behala predates Kolkata. It was a collection of villages. Each had “Behala” in its name like Bazarbehala. Some names remain in municipal records like Rajarbaganbehala.
In the 12th century, Behala was part of the Sunderbans. Beekeepers and fishermen lived here. Dhananjay Mitra ruled. He was a devotee of Goddess Chandi. Some say Behala was named for her.
Pilgrims passed through Behala on their way to Kalighat or Gangasagar. This boosted trade. Before Calcutta existed, Behala thrived.
Today Behala Young is a highlight of Durga Puja. It showcases the festival’s evolving spirit. The legacy of the past connects with the present.
As the celebrations wind down, remember the story of Behala Young. Remember Behala’s history. It is a story of faith. It is a story of community. It is a story etched in the heart of Kolkata.