Kolkata’s cricket legend Sourav Ganguly kicked off the Durga Puja celebrations in style this Ashtami, offering prayers at the Barisha Players Corner pandal in south Kolkata’s Behala neighborhood. The former Indian cricket captain, who also leads the Cricket Association of Bengal, joined his wife Dona Ganguly for the special ritual.
This year’s Durga Puja feels extra joyful for the Ganguly family. Their daughter Sana is back home from her studies on puja vacation, and Sourav is making the most of the time with her amid the festivities. Dressed in traditional white pajamas and kurta, Sourav offered Anjali at the feet of Goddess Durga, standing alongside family members and neighbors in true Bengali style.
Sourav makes it a point to visit this local Durga Puja every year—it’s right in his Behala neighborhood, after all. He even joins in playing the dhak, the iconic Bengali drum that sets the festive beat. From the pandal’s inauguration through the evenings of Saptami and Ashtami, Sourav stays fully involved, just like always.
The Barisha Players Corner Durga Puja has deep family roots. Sourav’s late father, Chandi Ganguly, started it decades ago, and today, the Ganguly family along with neighbors keeps the tradition alive. This time, the pandal boasts a stunning theme inspired by an old zamindar house, showcasing the grandeur and customs of Bengal’s bygone era.
Dona Ganguly shared her thoughts with reporters at the spot: “Wishing everyone a happy Mahashtami. I come here with Sourav every year to offer Anjali. This time, Sana is in Kolkata too—she drops by for the pujas now and then. May everyone enjoy a wonderful Durga Puja this year.”
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