At Baishnabghata Patuli Upanagori Sarbojanin, the theme ‘Antorlin’ explores the story of a civilisation buried beneath the earth. According to pandal artist Partho Joardar, the theme revolves around three villages and an imagined discovery that brings their forgotten past back to life.
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All pictures: Soumyajit Dey
The fictional narrative begins with a village facing a severe water crisis, prompting the villagers to dig a well. During the excavation, they discover remnants of ancient structures and inform the government. Archaeological excavation subsequently begins in the village and two adjoining ones, eventually leading to the discovery of a Durga idol.
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The villagers wish to worship the idol, but are prevented from doing so as the site and the artefacts are declared government property. A Puja is consequently started in a neighbouring village.
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As word of the worship spreads and crowds begin to gather, a fair grows around the Puja, providing a source of livelihood for scores of people during the festive days.
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“To enter this pandal is not merely to witness a Puja installation; it is to walk through an unknown civilisation buried deep beneath the earth. Every step resembles an archaeological layer, every fragment of architecture stands as a silent witness to the past, and every layer of soil represents an untold chapter of history. Finally, Maa Durga emerges from the heart of that silent history — a symbol of strength, creation and renewal,” added Joardar.
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The Durga idol for the Puja has been created by artist Ayan Pal.
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The installation features hundreds of diyas, intricate wall sculptures and a Durga idol at its centre.