Shahganj Barwari pandal to resemble WB's Dakshineswar Kali temple

Prayagraj: Like every year, thousands of devotees of Bengali community, and even non-Bengali devotees, are busy making preparations for upcoming Durga Puja starting Oct 8. This selected lot of around 100 families of Shahganj locality more excited as this year is the 101st year of their Barwari, which was started by a Bengali family of this locality way back in 1923. The locality where this Durga Puja is celebrated is known as the wholesale market for electronic goods and gadgets, catering to the demand of not only Prayagraj but the markets of all the neighbouring districts.

This year's Durga Puja at Shahganj Barwari is special as it is based on the theme of Dakshineswar Kali temple, a famous site of pilgrimage on the banks of river Hooghly. Ramkrishna Pramahans was the head priest here. Preparations for making the pandal and decorating the same have been going on in full swing for the past two months. Artists from WB have been called up to make the pandal, which will be a replica of Dakshineswar Kali temple. Although the pandal is based on a simple theme, the organisers have taken special care to follow the traditions when it comes to the idol of Goddess Durga. The statue and entire decorations will be eco-friendly.

Last year this Barwari was awarded ‘best of all' trophy by the Bengali Welfare Association and Allahabad Durga Puja committee. Although the Barwari is over 100 years old, the committee was registered under the Society Act last year. The organisers have taken special care for the security of the devotees coming to get the blessings of the Goddess. Being surrounded by the community of a different religion, police and locals leave no stone unturned to secure the place. CCTV cameras have been installed inside and around the pandal.

(With inputs from Pradeep Yadav)