The 84th anniversary of Kolkata's 'Pathurighata Pancher Palli' Durga Puja pandal is challenging societal norms and taboos surrounding menstruation by adopting a Menstrual Hygiene theme. The visionary behind this thought-provoking initiative is Ellora Saha, the Working President of the 'Pathuriaghata Pancher Palli Sarbojanin Durgotsab' committee.
With the intention of eradicating the stigma associated with menstruation, the theme of 'Ritumati' (Menstrual Hygiene) has been chosen for this year's puja pandal. Ellora Saha remarked, "Menstruation is a natural biological process, and there is no need to conceal it. It's high time we break these taboos, and the first step is to bring such issues to the forefront," news agency ANI quoted her as saying.
Menstruation is frequently associated with numerous restrictions, such as prohibiting women from entering the kitchen, sharing beds with their husbands, or leaving the house. Inadequate education about personal health and hygiene during menstruation aggravates these myths. Ellora Saha advocates for a shift in mindset, urging both boys and girls to learn about menstruation scientifically and to view it as a simple, natural biological process devoid of glorification or secrecy.
The construction of the pandal, rooted in installation art featuring paintings, models, and graphics, took three months and an investment of approximately Rs 18 lakh. Manash Roy, the main artist behind the project, explained, "Our puja pandal focuses on menstrual hygiene and cycles through various forms of art." The central theme is embodied in the idols crafted by Sanatan Paul of Kumartuli, which further underline the message of breaking menstrual taboos.
The Menstrual Hygiene theme of the 'Pathurighata Pancher Palli' Durga Puja pandal reflects a progressive step towards raising awareness and normalising conversations about menstruation, challenging deep-rooted stigmas, and ushering in a more inclusive and informed society.