Durga idol at Utsav-Utsarg There was a time when Durga Puja was the highlight of my year. The excitement of pandal hopping, soaking in the festive atmosphere, and admiring the creativity of the idols was something I eagerly looked forward to. Over the past few years, however, that enthusiasm has gradually faded. This year, I decided to keep things simple and visit just the two community Durga Pujas closest to home—the pandals at the Utsav-Utsarg and Udita residential complexes. On Nabami, I took a leisurely walk to both, spending a few quiet moments appreciating the beautifully crafted idols and the decorations put together by the residents. It wasn't about covering dozens of pandals or battling the crowds. Instead, it was a peaceful reminder that the spirit of Durga Puja can be found just as easily in the warmth of one's own neighbourhood. Sometimes, a simple visit is all it takes to reconnect with a festival that has been such an important part of life for so many years. Du...
Life & Times of a traveller, photographer, scale modeller and blogger.