Kolkata Pandal Honours Migrant Mothers On Durga Puja, Wins The Internet

In an ode to migrant workers who faced immense hardships during the pandemic, Kolkata's Barisha Club Durga Puja committee has decided to erect and worship a statue of a migrant mother this year.

By Roshini Muthukumar

October 17, 2020

Durga Pujo, the annual festival that pays homage to Goddess Durga is all set to commence on October 22. An interesting tradition in West Bengal is the many unique forms of the Goddess various organising committees display in their pandals (temporary sheds) every year. These usually reflect current events, to a large extent.

In 2020, amid the ‘new normal’ of digital pandal visits and home-delivery of Bhog, the plight of migrant workers during the lockdown, who had to walk barefoot for days on end under the scorching sun, has found a beautiful tribute.

Have a look at the Goddess in this pandal erected by the Barisha Club Durga Puja committee in Behala, Kolkata.

According to an article by The Telegraph, this statue was built by artist Pallab Bhowmick. It represents a mother as Goddess Durga along with her children – Goddess Lakshmi with an owl in her arms, Goddess Saraswati with a swan in her hand, and the young boy in her arms who signifies the God Kartikeya. A halo surrounds the mother and children with 10 hands – a traditional motif of Goddess Durga.

Interestingly, after this image went viral on Twitter, many on Twitter pointed out how celebrating Duraj Puja with a theme based on issues prevailing in the society at the time has always been common. Check out this rather special one from the World War Two era.

Similar Story

10 Christmas Food Delicacies From India You Must Try

Visiting Kerala or Goa on Christmas? Here are 10 traditional Christmas dishes for a memorable feast.

If you found our stories insightful, informative, or even just enjoyable, we invite you to consider making a voluntary payment to support the work we do at The Better India. Your contribution helps us continue producing quality content that educates, inspires, and drives positive change.

Choose one of the payment options below for your contribution-

₹201 ₹501 ₹1001

By paying for the stories you value, you directly contribute to sustaining our efforts focused on making a difference in the world. Together, let's ensure that impactful stories continue to be told and shared, enriching lives and communities alike.

Thank you for your support. Here are some frequently asked questions you might find helpful to know why you are contributing?