New Alipore Suruchi Sangha’s 2026 Durga Puja theme pays tribute to Dr Syama Prasad Mookerjee, commemorating the life and legacy of the political leader through a pandal that draws inspiration from Bengal’s rural landscape. Here’s a look.
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All pictures: Soumyajit Dey
Designed to evoke the simplicity of village life, the pandal has been constructed using bamboo and straw.
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Its walls serve as a canvas for snapshots from Mookerjee’s life, taking visitors through different chapters of his journey.
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The displays trace his early years and upbringing, as well as his political career and the founding of the Akhil Bharatiya Jana Sangh. Another significant reference is his forceful demand for the abrogation of Article 370 of the Constitution, which granted special status to Jammu and Kashmir.
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The tribute extends beyond the pandal walls, with the grounds featuring a full-length statue of Mookerjee and a special artwork centred on his bust. Together, these installations offer visitors an opportunity to engage with different aspects of his life and political legacy.
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Lighting will be one of the major attractions of this year’s Suruchi Sangha Puja, said secretary Sourav Sikdar. This will add to the overall visual experience.
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The pandal has been conceptualised by Anirban Das, who has also created the idol of Goddess Durga, bringing the different elements of the theme together.