Bombay Durga Puja Samiti has unveiled their idol for the year 2017.
Started by Shib Chandra Bannerjee of Hindustan Construction and Shib Chandra Chandra of Bengal lodge in 1930, Bombay Durga Puja Samiti is one of the oldest Durga Pujas in Mumbai. The festival organisers have managed to maintain the traditional flavours associated with the puja, amidst a growing trend towards theme installations.
Speaking about their endeavour, the president of Bombay Durga Bari Samiti, Jayanta Kumar Basu said, “This year, we are ushering in the 88th year of our celebrations. We work hard to promote the culture and ethos of Bengal and bring it to the people of Mumbai, while retaining its traditional “ghoroa” (homely) nature. The Samiti has always believed in promoting performing arts and artists from diverse backgrounds, while endeavouring to achieve its philanthropic objectives. The programmes organised by the Samiti reflect the cultural ethos of India and meet our objective of furthering National Integration."
Elucidating upon the year’s idol, Basu added, “This year our idol is eco-friendly, unlike the usual plaster of paris. We are celebrating Durga Puja in an environmentally friendly way and hope to continue doing so in the years to come.”
“Keeping in line with the eco-friendly materials like bamboos, hay and soil which are being used to make the idol, this year no oil colours are being used either. Water soluble colours will be used for the idols” said Mitali Poddar, Convenor of the Protima Committee.
The idol this year is ‘Ek Chaler Thakur’ (all the Gods are covered by one halo) in a ‘Rajprasad’ theme i.e. palace themed decor. Tejpal Hall has been transformed into a palace with a marble finish on the walls and pillars, decorated with pearls and semi precious stones and vintage chandeliers on the main gates and marquee.
Goddess Ma Durga has been dressed up in a heavy brocade benarasi and jewellery while her family entourage too has been given the royal treatment. The ’Chalchitro of Goddess Durga’ i.e. the backdrop is painted with "Potochitro" i.e. scroll painting art, native to Bengal.
