HYDERABAD: A grand Durga Puja with a striking red theme symbolising power invoked an array of emotions in the hearts of Bengalis in Hyderabad.
The majestic puja pandal, the sacred sound of dhak, conch shells, and the energetic dunuchi naach, transported all to a vibrant West Bengal. Organised by the Bengalee Cultural Association, the Sarbojanin Durgotsav 2024 at the Banjara Function Hall kicked off on October 8 and will wrap up on October 13 on Maha Dashami.
“Performing Mata Puja and seeking her blessings is the essence of this celebration, while also showcasing the rich traditions of Bengali culture. To bring an authentic Bengali touch, we’ve invited expert craftsmen and artists all the way from Kolkata, something that no other Bengali association in Telangana has done before,” said Ranjit Paul, general secretary of the Association.
On the second day of the six-day celebrations, the Governor of Telangana, Jishnu Dev Varma, performed aarti to Goddess Durga and participated in Pushpanjali and Devi Bhog.
“The entire planning of the puja, decoration, and cultural activities is being managed by the women of our association,” said Sanjay Pan, Vice President of the Bengalee Cultural Association.
Dandiya in full swing
Women twirling around in their stunning ghagra cholis to the upbeat rhythms of Garba songs is the first thing you notice as you step into Classic Gardens.
The vibrant lights, smiling faces, and men and women with dandiya sticks set the perfect mood for the Navkar Navratri Utsav 2024 – Season 7, organised by mother-daughter duo Kavita Jain and Saloni Jain.
“We organised this event to honour and preserve our rich culture and traditions. Navaratri is all about joy, devotion, and togetherness, and we believe it’s essential to keep these traditions alive for future generations. Through music, dance, and delicious food, we aim to create a vibrant atmosphere that reflects the spirit of this beautiful festival,” said Saloni Jain.
This year, they’ve gone all out with themed competitions and a celebrity appearance by Sourabh Raaj Jain. The décor gives you major Surat-Ahmedabad vibes right here in Hyderabad, and it’s been a hit with everyone.
On Ashtami, they took things up a notch with a grand Mahaarti, featuring elaborate decorations and around 5,000 people performing aarti to Mata Durga simultaneously—it was a wonderful spectacle!
Hailing the flower goddess
Adding a fun and creative touch to Bathukamma celebrations this year, the Telangana Sangeet Natak Academy, along with Ravindra Bharathi, organised four days of festive events across the city. Using the festive season as an opportunity to showcase young talent, the Dance, Music, and Theatre Fest recently took place at Ravindra Bharathi, along with evening Bathukamma celebrations in the local community.
At the grand finale, held at Tank Bund, women dressed in traditional attire arrived from all corners of the city with their stunning floral Bathukamma creations. The sound of folk songs, blaring through huge speakers, filled the city with festive vibes.
Alekhya Punjala, chairperson of Telangana Sangeet Natak Akademi, said, “When I was in university, we celebrated Navratri everywhere—offices, universities, colleges. But now, with this new responsibility, I’ve become part of something bigger.
We kicked off the celebrations at Ravindra Bharathi on October 2, and I met so many people from different districts who joined in. The joy and excitement were just contagious!” The renowned danseuse added, “Telangana has a rich cultural heritage, whether it’s literature, music, or visual arts. It’s our duty to preserve, promote, and strengthen it. We’re working hard to put Telangana on the cultural map of India, and I feel like we’re getting there.”
