Most of us love to eat fruits, especially the seasonal ones. But, have you ever heard of a puja panda made out of fruits? Sounds unbelievable right? Well, that has become a reality in a puja pandal in South Kolkata whose decoration has been done using mountain fruits including betel leaves and mangoes. This puja pandal is none other than 'Bhowanipur 75 Palli'
Let's know more about it:
The name 'Bhowanipur 75 Palli' is at present regarded as an emerging star amongst the leading theme pujas of south Kolkata. With each passing year, Bhowanipur 75 Palli has reached a milestone. Normally famous for its themed pandals in South Kolkata, this renowned Durga Puja pandal has maintained its tradition for 59 years. The organizers are steadfast in their belief in Sabkeiyana this time which was inaugurated virtually by Chief Minister of West Bengal, Mamata Banerjee.
Speaking to the media, Sri. Bablu Singh, who is the Working President of Bhowanipur 75 Palli and a Social Worker said, "Tradition doesn't sprout overnight; its roots run deep. So, in the pre-golden jubilee year, Bhowanipur 75 Palli continues to have faith in Sabekiyana. This time, for the decoration of the pandal at Bhowanipur 75 Palli, a variety of mountain fruits, including betel leaves and mangoes, have been chosen. These fruits are processed and used for decoration in a traditional manner. The touch of Sabekiyana is also evident in the idol of the goddess, sculpted by artist Prashant Pal."
In the eagerness to have a grand Durga Puja, Bhowanipur 75 Palli has not forgotten its social responsibilities; they have always been at the forefront of social events and also to eradicate social evils. A part of the donation and subscription that they collect in the Durga Puja is utilized in social works around the year.
Additionally, they have been associated with the local bodies in all forms and shapes for any mass-oriented awareness activity. Some of these include - Complimentary health checkups & assistance for the local habitats around the year; an Awareness programme that runs all through the year regarding socio-economic hazards; organizing blood, body and eye donation camps; distribution of new sarees and clothes during the Durga Puja to the under-privileged ones; distributing educational kits and books to the children below the poverty line; and also giving blankets to needy during the winter season and many such CSR activities for welfare of the society.
Talking about the idol, the pandal showcases an 'Ekchala Thakur' with Maa Durga and her family in front of one backdrop. The Goddess decked up in a red saree blesses devotees and visitors and at the same time removes all evil from society.