Holding on to festive roots in Singapore, Bengali Durga Puja marks 70 years

A Durga Puja in Southeast Asia’s bustling business hub turned 70 this year.

The Bengali Association Singapore (BAS) started organising the puja in 1956. Its founding members were Bengali professionals who came together to start a community that the first-generation immigrants could turn to.

They also wanted the future generations to understand and appreciate their roots. What began with a small group has grown into a thriving cultural home.

Over the years, the BAS Durga Puja has grown manifold, with 500 members actively contributing to the preparations in one way or another. Unlike many other pujas abroad, it is not confined to a weekend. The celebrations spanned five days, following the almanac.

A giant hangar was set up on a ground in Farrer Park in the city centre. The puja happened at the tent. The idol was procured from Calcutta a few years ago. The ritualistic pot was worshipped and immersed in a tub.

Around 10,000 people assembled for darshan and bhog, organisers said. Bhog is an elaborate spread — a different menu every day. Shukto, bhaja moong daal, a variety of fried items, luchi, chholar daal, doi potol were on the menu.

Then, there is the quintessential Calcutta biryani, along with mutton kosha, and rolls. These can be bought from stalls in the evening.

“What makes the bhog team particularly special is its diverse age groups. While the most senior at their 80s to most junior at their 20s. Between the preparations and the serving, recipes are shared, small details are explained, and another generation learns how to carry the tradition forward. It captures the essence of Durga Puja; seniors affectionately guiding the younger generation, sharing recipes, rituals and responsibilities so that the legacy continues,” said Debananda Ghosh, an engineer and the president of the management committee of the association.

On Panchami, BAS hosts a cultural programme. It is like a mini-India with participation of Marathis, Malayalees, Odias, Gujratis and Sindhis who come up with their own unique performances. The fashion show and dance performances are among the most eagerly awaited parts of BAS Puja, with more than 100 members taking part.