Mamata Banerjee Begins Durga Puja Kickoff, to Inaugurate 3,000 Pandals in 5 Days

Quick Summary

• West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee inaugurated the 2025 Durga Puja festivities by opening the Tala Prattoy pandal in North Kolkata on September 20,2025.
• The Tala Prattoy Durga Puja celebrates its centenary this year with the theme “Beej Angan” (seeds in the Courtyard), conceptualized by artist Bhabatosh Sutar and accompanied by a song written by ms. Banerjee and sung by Minister Indranil Sen.
• Ms. Banerjee emphasized cultural pride, saying respect for Bengali songs is declining and called for unity among communities during her address at the event despite ongoing heavy rains impacting the state.
• The Chief Minister also inaugurated notable pandals such as Sreebhumi Sporting Club’s and Hatibagan Sorbojanin later that evening.
• A massArt preview of 24 top-themed Durga Puja pandals was launched, emphasizing accessibility for senior citizens and persons with disabilities while highlighting inclusivity principles.
• Supported by UNESCO as receiving its intangible heritage tag, events like these aim to position Kolkata’s Durga Puja celebrations globally as a unique public art form.

Indian Opinion Analysis
The inauguration of over 3,000 iconic Durga Puja pandals across Bengal underscores not only cultural pride but also reflects significant socio-economic dimensions of one of India’s largest public festivals. By integrating themes such as harmony amidst diversity and artistic innovation like “Beej Angan,” there is an evident attempt to use tradition to uphold regional identity while contributing to community unity during challenging weather conditions.

Moreover, efforts like massArt coupled with UNESCO’s recognition signify growing international acknowledgment of Durga Puja’s artistic value-a move vital in situating local art forms within a global cultural economy framework. However, ensuring tangible accessibility for vulnerable sections adds an inclusive dynamic to this large-scale celebration annually drawing millions-possibly serving as a template for other Indian festivals seeking broader acceptance without diluting their essence.

Read more at The Hindu