In a world where most invitation cards are printed out, IC Block has started a practice of getting their Saraswati puja cards handmade by children and youths. And to enforce quality control they have even made a competition out of it.

“Since Saraswati puja is a festival for students, we wanted students’ involvement in the same. Instead of simply celebrating on the big day, this was a chance for them to help in organising the puja too,” said Bikash Kumar Singh, secretary of the Youth of IC Block, that organised the puja. 

IC Block comprises central government quarters. At present, around 4,000 families reside here hailing from across the country. But they have been celebrating Saraswati puja for 27 years. In fact, with a budget of around Rs 1,80,000 and an idol towering over 15 feet this year, it is the block’s biggest annual celebration.

“Besides music and food, we hold a sit-and-draw at Saraswati puja every year. So when we announced the contest we laid special emphasis on informing the winners of last year’s sit-and-draw,” said Singh. The eligibility was 14 years and above.

They got around 15 entries out of which 12 were chosen. Eleven out of these were by a single artiste — Sneha Maity, a second year student of commerce.

“Paintings of goddesses generally look alike so I researched the art of different places before sitting down to paint the cards,” says Sneha. “For instance, in Indonesia Hindu gods are depicted with long faces and tall tiaras. I made two such images. Another card is influenced by south Indian art.”

But the cutest ones are the Saraswatis inspired by the Japanese cartoon character Shin Chan. “I love cartoons and made some images where the goddess has large eyes and heads in proportion to the body. I’ve also used the red and yellow colour scheme that Shin Chan wears,” she says.

Sujaya Biswas learnt about the contest the day before submission. “So I quickly made a traditional image,” said Sujaya, who is a drawing teacher in the block. “Next time I’ll make all my students take part too.”

Survi Arya, another avid painter, didn’t have time to send in an entry this year but says she would love to join the contest next time. “As it is, Saraswati puja is the most eagerly awaited festival in our block. Such activities add to the fun,” said the B.Com honours student.

The chosen cards were sent out to eminent guests like Olympian archer Mangal Singh Champia, MLA Sujit Bose, councillors and top police officials. They all appreciated the initiative.

saltlake@abpmail.com