Durga Puja was celebrated with religious fervour and enthusiasm at Neeti Bagh MCD ground from October 20 to 24 and witnessed wholehearted participation by the residents of Gulmohar Park, Anand Lok, Gulmohar Enclave and Uday Park. The puja in our area draws wide participation not only from Bengalis but people from all communities, showcasing the cultural diversity of our country.
Organised by the Durga Puja Samiti, the puja marked completion of 48 years since its inception as it was held initially in Gulmohar Park and then in Neeti Bagh. The five-day festival began with Anand Mela where home cooked delicacies and various other items were put up for sale at stalls.
Under the overall guidance of Shakun Mandal, cultural programmes, painting competitions for children were also organised on all days. Apart from a performance by disciples of renowned Bharatanatyam danseuse Geeta Chandran, plays by children of adjoining colonies were staged which were directed by Niti Bhardwaj. Dance performances by Kritika, Piyu and Prerna enthralled all. Musical performance, a mix of old and contemporary Hindi songs, was soulfully rendered by Malabika Thakur and her troupe of Apoorva Thakur and Neeraj Thakur which kept everyone hooked to the melodies. Piyu also rendered Hindi and Bangla songs which was thoroughly enjoyed by the audience.
Evenings came alive to the religious tradition of elaborate Aarti to the beats of Dhakis from West Bengal. On Saptami, Ashtami and Navmi, residents partook of specially prepared community Bhog. Enthusiastic participation of the residents was also due to the fact that Durga Puja returned to Neeti Bagh after a gap of three years as all religious and community congregations were disrupted due to the Covid-19 pandemic. The puja concluded with the traditional send off to Maa Durga as the eco-friendly idol was taken out for immersion on the day of Vijayadashmi. Goddess Durga is worshipped for her slaying of demons, including Mahishasur, and her advent on Earth is celebrated during the days of Durga Puja every year.
