Women lead probashi pujos across the globe

The probashi Bengali community always makes sure to celebrate Durga Puja with fervour all while embracing nostalgia and their love for Kolkata. We speak to international Pujo committees to know more about their celebrations for the festival.

Women priests lead the way
Ishana Basu, chairperson of the Bengali Association of Gothenburg, Sweden says that last year five women from their association took charge and learnt the rituals virtually from Dr Nandini Bhowmik. “This year also, the women are going to do the Pujo,” she said.

Kolkata on their mind
New Jersey’s Trinayani Durgotsav has decided on a Kolkata-theme Pujo this year. “For the third year of our Pujo, we are creating a special theme with cut-outs of notable landmarks of the city like the Howrah Bridge, the hand-pulled rickshaw and the iconic yellow taxi,” said Sumit Dey, committee president. He also shared that they always create their own idol. Their Pujo is held at school and society auditoriums which are decorated instead of pandals.

A special tribute to women
“This year our theme is women empowerment, keeping in mind the current situation in Kolkata. It is a difficult time for all of us,” said Bhaskar Bhattacharjee, organiser from Prayash UK Durgotsav committee, London. He added, “Our celebrations will also include Kolkata-style food. The cultural event lineup features plays and music performances by the community members.” Most of their activities of the Pujo are to be helmed by women including the preparation of the bhog.

A Pujo-worthy reunion
Amra Probashi Cultural Association of Alberta, Canada, this celebration is set to be a reunion of sorts for them. “We host the Pujo in a basketball court that is decorated by the members and our idol is traditional or sabeki. Most working committee positions here are headed by women so they play a major role in the Pujo, cultural activities, and food,” said association president, Atanu Ghosh.

We bring inclusiveness in our Pujo by encouraging people from other communities to join us – Indian and also the native indigenous
– Atanu Ghosh