New Delhi [India], September 27: Durga Pujo is not just a festival. It is a rhythm of life, a cultural heartbeat, and a living, breathing tradition that has defined Bengal for centuries. As the autumn air begins to cool, the skies turn a deeper shade of blue, and the fragrance of shiuli flowers fills the streets, the anticipation of Pujo transforms every corner of Kolkata and every Bengali heart across the world.
It is said that Pujo is as much about the preparation as it is about the celebration. The days leading up to Mahalaya, with artisans in Kumartuli carefully crafting clay idols, neighbourhoods planning elaborate pandals, and families preparing new clothes and festive menus, are just as joyous as the five days of worship themselves. For many, it is the promise of renewal, the triumph of good over evil, and the annual return of the Goddess to her maternal home.
Durga Pujo is not only a religious occasion but also a social, cultural, and economic phenomenon. UNESCO’s recognition of Bengal’s Durga Pujo as an Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity in 2021 affirmed what millions already knew: this is not merely a festival but an unparalleled expression of human creativity and community spirit.
Durga Pujo reflects the very essence of Bengal’s soul. It is a festival where music, art, dance, food, and worship converge in a grand spectacle. From the thunderous beats of the dhak to the delicate alpona designs at doorsteps, every detail carries a significance that goes beyond ritual.
The pujo pandals themselves are living museums of creativity. Each year, thousands of artists and craftsmen, many unsung, pour their skills into constructing temporary yet breathtakingly intricate structures. Some pandals replicate world monuments; others draw on traditional folk art or cutting-edge modern design. In these ephemeral spaces, artistry meets devotion, and the result is awe-inspiring.
Food, too, plays its own role in the narrative of Pujo. From bhog served at pandals from khichuri, labra, chutney, and payesh to the queues outside famous eateries for fish fry, biryani, or sweets, Pujo becomes a celebration of flavours. Families gather, friends reunite, and strangers share meals, bound by the festive spirit.
It is this collective joy that makes Durga Pujo more than just worship. It becomes a festival of identity, resilience, and belonging.
On the occasion of Durga Pujo, the management of Ghosh Group shared their thoughts on what the festival means to them and how it resonates with the Group’s philosophy.
Mrs. Tanushree Ghosh, Chairman of Ghosh Group, reflected on the cultural significance of the festival:
“Durga Pujo is not merely a festival for Bengalis but it is an emotion that defines who we are. It is about unity, creativity, and resilience. When I walk through pandals, I see not just idols and décor, but the collective effort of hundreds of people who come together to create something magical. This spirit of togetherness is what inspires us as an organisation. We too believe that collaboration, creativity, and devotion can build something enduring.”
Mr. Biswadip Ghosh, Chairman Emeritus, spoke about the parallels between the Group’s long journey and the enduring traditions of Pujo:
“For me, Pujo is about continuity and transformation. Every year, the festival renews itself with new themes and ideas, yet the core remains unchanged. In business and in life, that balance is crucial evolving with time while staying true to values. As we complete nearly four decades, I find the symbolism of Pujo, a victory through perseverance and faith, deeply resonant.”
Adding a forward-looking perspective, Mr. Bitan Ghosh, Managing Director, said:
“Durga Pujo is about new beginnings. Just as the Goddess returns every year, bringing with her strength and hope, we too see this as a time to reflect and renew. This Pujo is particularly special for us as we look ahead to our next phase of growth. Festivals remind us that while we may chase global ambitions, our roots and our inspirations will always be here in Bengal. That grounding is what gives us strength.”
What makes Durga Pujo unique is its ability to blur boundaries. In pandals, there are no distinctions of class, creed, or status and everyone gathers in shared reverence and joy. Volunteers tirelessly organize queues, distribute bhog, and ensure order. The dhakis, with their rhythmic beats, set the pulse of the celebration, while local clubs raise funds and coordinate massive events that rival professional productions.
This inclusiveness makes Pujo a festival of the people. It is as much about community service as it is about worship. Many pujo committees now incorporate social messages through raising awareness about health, education, environment, or women’s empowerment into their pandal themes.
While the essence of Pujo remains rooted in tradition, the ways of celebrating have evolved. Social media has become a major part of the festivities, with pandal-hopping now accompanied by live updates, photoshoots, and hashtags. Drone photography captures aerial views of illuminated streets, while YouTube channels stream live aarti for Bengalis living abroad.
Economically, Pujo is a powerhouse. It is estimated that the festival fuels a multi-thousand-crore economy every year covering fashion, food, travel, hospitality, and entertainment. For many businesses, Pujo is the most important season of the year, much like Diwali in other parts of India.
Even then, the festival remains deeply personal. For some, it is about nostalgia revisiting their childhood pujo memories. For others, it is about discovery exploring new pandals, new designs, and new interpretations of tradition.
At its heart, Durga Pujo is about the victory of good over evil. The Goddess slays Mahishasura not just as a mythological act but as a metaphor for defeating the evils that plague our world i.e. violence, inequality, ignorance, and fear. Every year, Bengalis look to Maa Durga for courage, resilience, and hope.
This message is timeless. It resonates in every household, every street, and every heart that celebrates Pujo. It is a call to rise above adversity and to create, together, a world of light and harmony.
While Ghosh Group has grown into a diversified enterprise with interests in technology, infrastructure, and consulting, the leadership emphasizes that their identity remains closely tied to Kolkata and its culture. Festivals like Durga Pujo, they say, are not just holidays on the calendar but reminders of the values that inspire them.
In a collective message, the management and employees of the Group extended their greetings:
“From our family to yours, we wish you peace, joy, and prosperity this Pujo. May Maa Durga bless every home with strength and harmony. Shubho Pujo!”
Reference link: https://www.ghoshgroup.in
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