By: SATARUPA SARKAR, ABHIJIT DAS
Durga Puja holds profound emotional and cultural significance for the Bengali community in West Bengal, transcending mere festivities to embody deep-rooted beliefs and traditions. The idol of Goddess Durga, depicted with ten arms, each symbolizing distinct virtues and attributes, serves as a focal point for various interpretations. An anthropological examination of Durga Puja reveals a multifaceted phenomenon encompassing religious, economic, thematic, and symbolic dimensions. This paper aims to shed light on cultural expressions and aesthetic narratives surrounding the Durga Puja-themed pandal and to understand the role of artisans, sculptors, and painters in shaping the visual and structural elements of the themed Durga Puja pandal. Due to modernization and globalization, Durga Puja, especially themed pujas, is also undergoing various changes. In conducting this study, a variety of methods were employed to gather comprehensive insights, including quasi-participation, non-participant observation, case studies, interviews, semi-structured interviews, questionnaires, and photography. To further enrich the primary findings, additional academic books, journals, and internet resources were referenced as needed.
