Kolkata’s Durga Puja festivities always mix faith with creativity, and this year brings a bold twist at one popular pandal. Organizers at the Saraswati and Kalimata Mandir have crafted a theme inspired by Satyajit Ray’s classic film Hirak Rajar Deshe. They’ve reimagined the story around "Hirak Rani," a fictional queen who mirrors today’s political tensions, especially in West Bengal.
Biswajit Sarkar, the committee’s secretary, explained the idea to . "Our pandal tells the tale of this queen manipulating elections with fear—think bombs, threats, and chaos to stay in power," he said. "We even show her ministers: some behind bars, others out on bail. Smart folks in the crowd will get the hint right away. It’s all drawn from what’s happening in Bengal society today."
As you step inside the pandal, the scene grabs your attention. A striking idol of Hirak Rani stands tall, dressed in a hijab, clutching a gun in one hand and a bomb in the other. It’s a modern political fable that sparks thought about real-world issues like election interference and fear-mongering.
Sarkar added, "We’re pushing people to reflect on these events so we don’t have to repeat this theme next time." The setup nods to current Bengal news, letting visitors connect the dots on their own.
Beyond the satire, Durga Puja celebrates so much more in Kolkata—compassion, unity, human connections, stunning art, and vibrant culture. The beat of dhaak drums, fresh outfits, and mouthwatering street food fill the streets with joy during this festive season.
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