Sabarna Roychowdhury’s grand legacy of illuminating Kolkata’s cultural canvas
This year marks the 231th celebration of Chandi Puja
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My Kolkata Web Desk |
Published 23.12.23, 04:37 PM
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The Chandi Mela has transformed into a tradition for the Sabarna Roychowdhurys, which is continuing for over two centuries. This cultural legacy was initiated by Mahesh Chandra Roychowdhury in 1792
All photos by Sannidh Raychaudhuri
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This year marks the 231st celebration of Chandi Puja, and the mela stands as a testament to the commitment of the Roychowdhurys to preserve and share their rich heritage. From its inception, the mela has evolved manifold to become a huge congregation
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Once a month-long affair, the mela has now been reduced to a 10-day festival. This year’s puja and mela ends December 29. Even today, the mela attracts a footfall of over one lakh visitors daily. The annual extravaganza boasts of more than 500 stalls, offering an eclectic mix of goods ranging from traditional sweets like 'jilipi' to modern appliances like refrigerators and televisions.
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The heart of the celebration lies in the sacred Chandi Bar of the family, where the revered 'ghot' and the sacred coconut reside for 365 days. The 'ghot', worshipped throughout the year, undergoes a symbolic transformation on Panchami of Durga Puja—the so-called "birthday" of Maa Chandi—when the coconut is replaced. The next four days witness fervent puja rituals, symbolising the divine presence of Ma Chandi in the family pandal
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The mela extends beyond religious festivities to embrace philanthropy and social causes. Six days of the mela are dedicated to various themes, each emphasising societal well-being. From honouring women to celebrating the youth, the mela serves as a platform for diverse expressions and community bonding
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While the mela has evolved over the years, shedding certain attractions like death wells and bike stunts, it still continues to captivate the audience and the same can be gauged by the footfall which keeps increasing year after year
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As the 231st year of Chandi Puja unfolds, the Roychowdhurys work hard to make it a grand affair, weaving together tradition, spirituality, and community in a spectacle that not only honours the divine but also reflects the dynamism of contemporary Kolkata. Chandi Mela stands as a beacon, radiating the spirit of unity and cultural pride for all to witness and cherish. Traders troupe in with carpets from Uttar Pradesh, Bhagalpuri sarees from Bihar and handicrafts/hand-made dolls from Krishnagar
