The puja committee of the Dakshindari Youth Club in Kolkata has made a courageous move this year with their Durga Puja theme, ‘Dahan’, which means “being burned” or the aftermath of burn injuries. This theme honors survivors of acid attacks and seeks to increase awareness of this horrific crime.
The pandal in South Dumdum will showcase incomplete structures draped in jute sacks, representing the devastation inflicted by acid assaults. Theme artist Anirban Das explains that these structures are covered to shield them from being “damaged” by others, similar to how acid attack survivors are left with scars. Additionally, the Durga idol will have a significant representation, with a hollow center that portrays the goddess as a pregnant woman, inspired by Shuvo Dasgupta’s poem “Ami Shei Meye”.
As guests stroll through the pandal, they will encounter theatre artists proclaiming “Ami Shei Meye” (“I am that girl”). On a special stage, acid attack survivors will join in, echoing the same message to honor women’s beauty and strength. Das stresses that the theme opposes the mentality that seeks to destroy beauty for selfish reasons.
The organizers have dedicated three months of hard work, involving a team of 70-75 artisans, to finalize the pandal by September 17. Das asserts that Durga Puja transcends mere devotion; it serves as a platform to address injustices. Through this theme, he intends to highlight the challenges faced by acid attack survivors and denounce such societal crimes.
By leveraging Durga Puja as a medium to highlight the issue of acid attacks, the Dakshindari Youth Club aspires to encourage change and support for survivors. The theme acts as a potent reminder of the importance of safeguarding and celebrating women’s beauty and dignity. With a preview show by MassArt scheduled to follow the pandal’s completion, this year’s Durga Puja celebration promises to be a significant and impactful occasion.
