Kolkata:The 13th edition of Santoshpally Jagadhatri Pujo was inaugurated with grandeur and cultural splendour in the esteemed presence of Tapash Chatterjee (MLA), Shrabanti Chatterjee (Actress), Debraj Chakraborty (MIC, Bidhannagar Municipal Corporation), and several other distinguished guests. The event marked yet another glorious chapter in the committee’s journey of devotion, creativity, and pride in Bengal’s rich cultural heritage.
This year’s pujo embraced a bold and thought-provoking theme — “Banglar Dakat” — conceptualized and artistically executed by Suman Sikder. The theme revisited an often-overlooked chapter of Bengal’s history, reinterpreting the word dakat (bandit) through a patriotic and historical lens.
Challenging the colonial narrative that painted these figures as criminals, the pandal portrayed them as rebels and freedom fighters who resisted British oppression and protected local communities. The unique cave-themed pandal, featuring a mesmerizing waterfall at the entrance, became a major attraction. Visitors were required to utter the words “Banglar Dakat” to enter — at which moment, the waterfall magically stopped, and the gates opened, symbolically ushering them into the world of Bengal’s brave outlaws.
The artistic presentation captured the spirit of defiance and courage of these misunderstood heroes. Through immersive installations, lighting, and sculptures, “Banglar Dakat” reflected the socio-political realities of the colonial era while resonating deeply with Bengal’s timeless legacy of resistance and resilience.
Beyond its artistic excellence, the Santoshpally Jagadhatri Pujo Committee has also emphasized social responsibility. This year, the committee announced financial assistance for 30 cancer patients, educational support for 50 underprivileged children, and aid for economically weaker families, reinforcing its philosophy of blending devotion with compassion.
Speaking on the occasion, Ratan Mrida, President of Santoshpally Jagadhatri Pujo Committee, said: “Our theme, ‘Banglar Dakat’, pays homage to the forgotten warriors who defied colonial rule and protected their people. Through this pujo, we aim to celebrate the true spirit of Bengal — brave, compassionate, and unyielding in the face of injustice. This is our tribute to their courage and to the soul of Bengal itself.”
With its fusion of art, history, spirituality and social consciousness, the 13th edition of Santoshpally Jagadhatri Pujo stands as a memorable celebration — one that redefines devotion through the lens of heritage and humanity.
