A grand carnival on Red Road featured tableaux from 95 Durga Puja committees, marking a celebratory return after a two-year hiatus due to the Covid-19 pandemic. The event served as a tribute to Kolkata’s Durga Puja receiving the UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage tag. In a vibrant parade, community puja committees showcased intricate craftsmanship before an audience that included Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, UNESCO representatives, and diplomats.
Commencing with a dazzling performance by Kolkata Police’s ‘Daredevil’ force, the Chief Minister joined Santhali dancers, along with ministers Birbaha Soren and Chandrima Bhattacharya. Renowned puja committees like College Square, Sreebhumi Sporting Club, and Singhi Park displayed traditional idols, accompanied by dhak beats and cultural performances. Theme-based idols from Suruchi Sangha, Chetla Agrani, Dumdum Park Tarun Dal, and Behala Natun Dal were also showcased. All participating puja committees received the state-sponsored ‘Biswa Bangla’ award.
The program, running from 4:30 pm to 9:15 pm, resulted in road diversions and traffic congestion. Each puja committee had three minutes for cultural performances, expressing gratitude to UNESCO with ‘Thank You UNESCO’ placards. Participants in traditional Bengali attire walked alongside their tableaux.
Despite criticism from the opposition, the carnival proceeded on Red Road, prompting reactions from leaders like Suvendu Adhikari, Sukanta Majumder, and Adhir Chowdhury. The TMC defended its decision, accusing the opposition of politicizing the tragedy in Jalpaiguri and the state’s renowned festival.
The annual carnival, absent for two years due to the pandemic, drew attention to Kolkata’s cultural heritage, even as controversies surrounding recent events and opposition criticism unfolded.
