Deep into the heart of North Kolkata lies Kumartuli, the hub of clay image makers of goddess Durga and her entourage. It is that time of the year for the Kumartuli artisans whose clay-smeared hands are at work day and night.
It is autumn in Bengal now, and the unmistakable beat of Durga Puja. The fragrance of shiuli blooms wafts through the air, dhaak beats ring out in narrow streets, and artisans put the finishing touches to idols.
West Bengal’s Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee has once again demonstrated her artistic talent by composing the lyrics for the theme song of the Tala Prattoy Durga Puja committee in Kolkata. The committee, which is marking its centenary year, was excited to have Banerjee create the song for their ‘Bij Angan’ (seeds in the courtyard) concept. The song was skillfully performed by State Minister Indranil Sen, who also unveiled the music video on Wednesday.
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.
In a gesture of goodwill, the interim government of Bangladesh has declared its intention to supply 1,200 tonnes of hilsa fish to India in anticipation of the upcoming Durga Puja festivities this month. An official release, issued on Monday (September 8, 2025), stated that the decision had been made “in principle” and called for fish exporters to submit their applications by September 11.
In a decision that blends tradition with vision, the West Bengal Cabinet, led by Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, has given the green signal to “Durga Angan”—a permanent temple complex dedicated to Goddess Durga. Much like the recently opened Jagannath temple in Digha, the idea is to keep the magic of Durga Puja alive, not just for a few festive days in autumn, but throughout the year.
Ahead of Durga Puja, West Bengal’s chief minister Mamata Banerjee may increase the financial grant. This expectation is held by many puja committees in West Bengal. The crucial meeting with the Chief Minister and other festival organisers will be held on 31st July, at Kolkata’s Netaji Indoor Stadium to finalise the plans.
