Unveiling 'Elem Notun Deshe': The Spectacular Theme of a Bengali Festival

Nestled within the vibrant heart of our bustling city, where the rich tapestry of tradition seamlessly interweaves with the melodious symphony of innovation, S B Park Sarbojanin Durgotsav has entranced the spirits of our beloved residents and inquisitive voyagers for a remarkable span of 53 years. But this year, it wasn't merely a commemoration of their remarkable journey; it marked the commencement of an extraordinary odyssey into uncharted territory, unveiling a theme that left all in awe - "Elem Notun Deshe," a poetic Bengali expression symbolizing our arrival in a novel land.

The festivities held within the enchanting embrace of S B Park Sarbojanin are no ordinary merriments. They are a testament to the club's unwavering commitment to shattering boundaries and dissolving divisions. This year, they unveiled a spectacle

that towered above the ordinary – a colossal Giant Agarbatti (incense stick), standing majestically at an astounding 6 feet, its fragrant smoke billowing for an astonishing 72 uninterrupted hours.

The ethereal aroma of this colossal Agarbatti did not simply linger within the pandal's confines; it transcended the boundaries, wafting its fragrance for over a kilometer in every direction. It was an olfactory experience like no other, a siren's call that beckoned people from every corner of the city. The symbolism embedded in this monumental incense stick was profound, invoking a palpable sense of oneness, serenity, and transcendence.

Mr. Sanjay Majumder, the Club President, eloquently unveiled the club's vision to the awaiting media. His words resonated with fervor, underscoring the pressing need for unity in a world increasingly marked by divisions – be they political, religious, or environmental. The theme "Elem Notun Deshe" wasn't a mere catchphrase; it drew inspiration from the legendary poet Rabindranath Tagore's magnum opus, "The Tasher Ghor." In this mesmerizing play, Tagore painted a world liberated from the shackles of boundaries, prejudices, and disparities.

Within the pandal of S B Park Sarbojanin, this vision transcended the confines of imagination. It became a haven where divisions dissolved, a realm where it felt as though the very concept of separation had vanished. Much like the free-spirited birds that gracefully navigate from one land to another, eschewing passports and visas, the club aimed to craft a space where people could congregate in the spirit of unity, much like the harmonious interplay of light and air.

The celebration was more than just an opportunity to marvel at the Giant Agarbatti. It was a clarion call, a heartfelt invitation to transcend the self-imposed limits of our own thinking and embrace a world devoid of divisive boundaries. In an era where polarization has become the order of the day, S B Park Sarbojanin Durgotsav's 'Elem Notun Deshe' theme illuminated the path to a brighter future, reminding us that we indeed can embark on a journey to a new land – one where unity, love, and mutual respect reign supreme.

As the lingering fragrance of the Giant Agarbatti continued to caress the senses, it bore with it a profound message of unity and togetherness. The 53rd-year celebration of S B Park Sarbojanin was more than a cultural event; it was a testament to the magical power of art and imagination to bridge the gaps that divide us, guiding us towards that pristine new land where we can all coexist in exquisite harmony.

Kolkata's Mohammad Ali Park Marks 55 Years with Kedarnath Temple

Step into the mystical realm of Kedarnath Temple right here in the heart of Kolkata. The Youth Association of Mohammad Ali Park, known for hosting one of the city's most iconic Durga Puja celebrations, has unveiled an awe-inspiring theme for its 55th year – a faithful recreation of the revered Kedarnath Temple nestled in the heights of Uttarakhand.

Baba Kedarnath's devotees perpetually yearn for his divine darshan, a privilege only granted to a fortunate few who make the arduous journey to the Himalayas. However, the people of Kolkata are in for an extraordinary treat as Baba Kedarnath himself graces their city with his presence in the form of this grand pandal.

Kedarnath Temple, perched on the banks of the Mandakini river at a staggering altitude of 3584 meters above sea level, is not just a sacred pilgrimage site but also a cornerstone of the Char Dhams and Panch Kedar in Uttarakhand. It holds the honor of being one of the 12 Jyotirlingas, the radiant symbols of Lord Shiva's divine presence in India.

General Secretary of the Youth Association at Mohammad Ali Park Durga Puja, Surendra Kumar Sharma explained the idea behind their ambitious project. They have created a lifelike replica of the Kedarnath Temple to give people who haven't had the chance to visit it a glimpse of its spiritual beauty. This replica allows them to have a divine view of one of Lord Shiva's twelve special lingas. The outside of their pandal looks just like the grand Kedarnath Temple, and this year's theme is "Shiva is Shakti," which will be represented by a stunning idol of the Mother Goddess created by the famous artist Kush Bera from Midnapur. To make the experience complete, they have used special lighting to capture the charm of Chandannagar, adding to the overall atmosphere of this exceptional Durga Puja celebration.

A Magnificent Mandap and Bel Leaves: Mudiali Club's Unique Transformation"

 

Durga Puja is an extravagant and vibrant celebration that fills the air with excitement and devotion. As the countdown to Durga Puja 2023 enters its final days, anticipation grows for the mesmerizing themes, intricate decorations, artistic idols, cultural performances, and the collective joy of this grand festival. After a year-long anticipation, we are on the cusp of a return, with just 20 days remaining. BongJournal is delighted to share a sneak peak from Mudiali Club.

The essence of a mother's visage has been meticulously crafted from the delicate canvas of a hundred and fifty thousand bel leaves, each carefully dried and stitched with love. Within the sacred confines of the mandap, a celestial sea of two hundred and fifty thousand lamps adorns the surroundings. Among them, a celestial constellation of fifty thousand Ujal lamps, casting their radiant glow upon the bamboo-made countenance, as if breathing life into its ethereal form.

Significant transformations have taken place, with a departure from traditional fabrics to embrace the allure of all-metal craftsmanship. Moreover, the pièce de résistance of this year's event is the exquisite Mandap, a creation of a distinct artist's vision. Expect a complete transformation, a canvas painted with the magician's artistry.

This extraordinary spectacle is not confined by boundaries; it is a universal narrative that transcends the divide of villages, towns, cities, and suburbs. Every soul who steps into the enchanting mandap is destined to be ensnared by an enchantment of immeasurable wonder. This is the visionary approach of the Mudiyali Club—not to dazzle with complex themes, but to resonate with simplicity, opulence, and a captivating diversity that captures the gaze of all who behold it.

In its 89th year, the Mudiyali Club proudly unveils its unique selling point: a vibrant and budding artist by the name of Biman Saha.

Photos : FB Collected