One of Kolkata’s oldest family Durga Pujas awaits you. Welcome to Sovabazar 9 Pally Sarbojanin. This is more than just a festival. It’s a living piece of history. Sovabazar itself has a rich past. It was settled by wealthy traders. They cleared jungles to build their homes. The area’s name even connects to one of them Shobharam Basak. His family deity Shyam Roy gave Shyambazar its name.
The Sovabazar Rajbari played a key role. Maharaja Nabakrishna Deb the powerful figure built his palace here. Some say he expanded an existing building. He certainly had the resources. After the Battle of Plassey he and others acquired vast wealth. They earned eight crore rupees worth of treasures.
Maharaja Nabakrishna Deb started the Durga Puja in 1757. It was a lavish affair. The British presence at these pujas became a status symbol. Religious norms were sometimes overlooked. Even nautch girls from Muslim gharanas performed.
The Sovabazar Durga Puja stands out for its unique style. Karttikeya is dressed in breeches. Ganesha reflects Marwari influences. Durga’s jewellery takes inspiration from Mughal or Oudh designs. This shows the diverse cultural influences on this specific puja.
The Rajbari itself is a heritage building. Swami Vivekananda even received a civic reception there. It’s a location that seamlessly blends history and faith. The Sovabazar 9 Pally Sarbojanin Puja is more than just a religious event. It represents the rich history of Sovabazar and its unique cultural blend. It’s a testament to the area’s enduring spirit. So let’s soak in the atmosphere and appreciate the legacy of this remarkable celebration.