Devlina Kumar, like many Kolkatans, feels the weight of current events as Durga Puja approaches. “At the moment, it doesn’t feel like the right time to think about it, but yes, Puja comes every year,” she says, referencing the ongoing RG Kar protest. “We will celebrate, though with a little sadness in our hearts if justice isn’t served.”
For Devlina, Durga Puja is deeply personal, rooted in childhood memories.”It’s the homecoming of Maa Durga, a pure emotion for every Bengali. It brings us back to childhood—it’s hard to put into words.” Her neighborhood Puja, which she’s been a part of since birth, still holds the same charm. “The only change? Pandals start getting built much earlier now.”
For Devlina, Durga Puja is deeply personal, rooted in childhood memories.”It’s the homecoming of Maa Durga, a pure emotion for every Bengali. It brings us back to childhood—it’s hard to put into words.” Her neighborhood Puja, which she’s been a part of since birth, still holds the same charm. “The only change? Pandals start getting built much earlier now.”
Food plays a central role in her celebration. “I always start with puchka—you just can’t miss it during Puja! Then there’s biryani, bhaat, and kosha mangsho.”
Though not a pandal hopper, Devlina enjoys visiting a few key pandals with family after the main Puja days. “I mainly celebrate with family at our neighborhood pandal, but I also catch up with friends and in-laws.”
Starting her Puja early with the Times Pujor Hullor, she concludes, “Now that I’m here, it really feels like Durga Puja is coming!” Yet, the mood is unmistakably tempered by the hope for justice amid the city’s protest.
