Jalpaiguri Celebrates Durga Puja with Assam-Inspired Pandal

The annual Durga Puja celebrations in Jalpaiguri, West Bengal, have drawn attention this year for their innovative artistic vision, showcasing the diverse cultural heritage of Assam. Organized by the Jalpaiguri Mahuripara Club, the pandal, crafted under the creative direction of notable artist Rabin Bar and supervision of club secretary Uttam Bose, ingeniously marries artistic traditions of Assam with the celebrations of the divine feminine power.

The pandal has been designed to pay homage to Assam’s cultural richness, featuring artistic depictions of the Bihu and Sattriya dance forms, among others. It also includes intricate masks, a hallmark of Assam’s vibrant artistic expression. The portrayal of Goddess Durga and her family, adorned in traditional Assamese attire such as the ‘mekhela-chador’, visually embodies the cultural synthesis between Assam and West Bengal.

Uttam Bose explained one of the highlights of the display, “A 42-foot-tall ‘Jaapi’, the world’s largest of its kind. Crafts inspired by Assam’s ‘Gamusa’ are also prominently featured throughout the pandal.” This fusion of art attracted numerous visitors statewide, who marveled at the decor and atmosphere, enhancing their cultural experience through this elaborate display.

Speaking on the collaboration, Uttam Basu, Secretary of the Organising Committee, noted, “Nine artists dedicated twenty-two days to create this unique pandal, ensuring the project’s success with the special involvement of Robin Barak.” Visitors like Mitra Bhowmik expressed their admiration, stating, “The interior of the pandal embodies a rare tenderness,” a sentiment echoed by others like Tirthankar Chakraborty who remarked on the immersive nature of the exhibit, “It feels as though I have virtually traveled to Assam.”

This pandal not only serves as a festive centerpiece but also as a cultural bridge, solidifying the connections between Assam and West Bengal through shared artistic endeavors.