A different ambience

The road that runs through the Sonajhuri Forest, with a canal on the left and the forest on the right, will lead you to “Hiralini Durgotsav”. Even before you reach the place, the catchy rhythms of tamak (Santhali drums) will reach your ears. You may wonder where the big gates and long queues of people are, but here you won’t find the jostling crowds or loud speakers or dazzling lights. Instead a very soothing atmosphere prevails here. Here the idols of the Goddess and her family are also quite different. The idols are made of terracotta, iron, bamboo or wood. Instead of weapons in Devi Durga’s hands, lotus is used. Another important thing about this puja is its ethnic decoration. The wonderful alpanas, pots, floral motifs, flowers, appliqué works, canopy and the idol add uniqueness to the puja.There is also a small fair near this place. It’s a small rural fair without any advertisements, bright lights or booming loud speakers. Cultural programmes also play a vital role in Durga Pujas here. Tribal songs, dances, baul songs and dramas in Santhali enthrall the visitors. Groups of tribals from different corners of Birbhum come here to perform. The environment of the Puja truly matches with the atmosphere of the place.This Durga Puja is perhaps one of the most unique in West Bengal. Hiralini Durgotsav — the name by which it is commonly known, was started in 2001 by Badhan Das, a professor and an artist of Government College of Art & Craft (Kolkata) with some of his students and tribals from nearby villages. It used to be held at Badhan Das’ residence at Boner Pukur Danga in the Sonajhuri Forest. After Badhan Das’ death in 2002, his student, Ashis Ghosh continues this Puja. In 2001 the idol was made of terracotta and this year, the bamboo idol of 2004 will be seen in a new form.It will indeed be a memorable experience for anyone who comes here for the first time.

Tias Basu, Class VIII, Coordinator,
Nava Nalanda, Santiniketan
source: the statesman