Dhakuria Sahid Nagar Sarbojonin Durgotsab Marks 77 Years with ‘Maha Milan’ Theme

Traditional Sabeki idol and fusion of traditional and contemporary materials to define this year’s Durga Puja

KOLKATA, 5 October 2026: The 77th Dhakuria Sahid Nagar Sarbojonin Durgotsab will celebrate Durga Puja this year with the theme “Maha Milan” (The Great Union), inspired by the divine and eternal bond of Radha and Krishna. The theme seeks to convey a timeless message of love, devotion, harmony and togetherness, while reflecting the spirit of collective participation that lies at the heart of the neighbourhood’s 77-year-old tradition.

The Puja will be inaugurated on 13 October 2026 at 6:00 PM onwards at Sahid Nagar Sangha Ground, 1 No. Sahid Nagar, Dhakuria, Kolkata – 700031.

Through “Maha Milan”, the organisers aim to celebrate the idea that true harmony transcends differences and brings people together through love, devotion and mutual respect. The theme also reflects the social spirit of a community Puja, where people from different backgrounds come together to pray, celebrate and share the joy of the festival.

This year’s presentation will retain a strong connection with tradition. The idol of Maa Durga will follow the traditional “Sabeki” style, preserving the timeless aesthetic and devotional character associated with Sanatan tradition. Subtle artistic elements inspired by “Maha Milan” will complement the traditional idol.

The pandal will present a fusion of traditional craftsmanship and contemporary artistic expression. Bamboo and straw (khar) will be combined with steel, iron, canvas and modern sheets, creating an artistic and structural dialogue between heritage and modernity.

The theme, pandal and overall artistic concept have been conceptualised and executed by artists Shri Avik Sen and Shri Shuvam Banerjee. The organisers emphasise that the Puja remains a collective endeavour, with club members and residents working together to bring the celebration to life.

Visitors will also be able to enjoy a small fair featuring handicrafts, jute products, food and other local offerings, providing local artisans and small businesses an opportunity to showcase their work. The popular “Khude Kishorer Mela” will also be organised for children, featuring drawing, singing, recitation and quiz competitions.

The Puja will be conducted in accordance with traditional Sanatani rituals and customs. While there will be no separate large-scale cultural programme during the Puja days, a cultural programme will be organised after the Puja as part of the community’s longstanding tradition.

As part of its social initiative, the organisers will also distribute new clothes among underprivileged children and elderly members of the neighbourhood, particularly those who may not be able to afford new clothes, enabling them to share in the happiness and dignity of the festive season.

The Puja will be inaugurated by a revered Swamiji from Bharat Sevashram Sangha. Invitations have also been extended to Hon’ble Chief Minister of West Bengal Shri Suvendu Adhikari and Hon’ble Governor of West Bengal Shri R. N. Ravi. Several Hon’ble Cabinet Ministers and distinguished personalities from various fields are also expected to attend.

Speaking on the occasion, Shri Pritam Dutta, President, Dhakuria Sahid Nagar Sarbojonin Durgotsab, said:

“For us, Durga Puja is not merely an annual celebration; it is an emotion that connects generations and brings our entire neighbourhood together. As we celebrate the 77th year of our Puja, we feel deeply grateful to be carrying forward a tradition that was lovingly started by our forefathers.

“This year’s theme, ‘Maha Milan’, reflects the timeless spirit of love, devotion, harmony and togetherness. Just as the divine union of Radha and Krishna symbolises a bond beyond differences, we hope our Puja becomes a meeting point for people from all walks of life.

“My heartfelt wish is that everyone who visits our Puja feels the warmth of belonging. May Maa Durga bless every family with peace, happiness and strength, and may the spirit of togetherness remain with us long after the Puja is over.”

The organisers emphasise that their focus is not competition but preserving a 77-year-old neighbourhood tradition and creating a celebration where people can come together in devotion, happiness and community spirit.

The 77th Dhakuria Sahid Nagar Sarbojonin Durgotsab invites everyone to experience “Maha Milan” — a celebration of tradition, devotion and togetherness.