At its location on 1/1C, Debendra Ghosh Road, next to Netaji Bhavan Metro Station, Bhowanipur 75 Palli, one of Kolkata’s most recognizable and culturally active puja committees, began its 61st year of Durga Puja festivities with the auspicious Khuti Puja. After the ceremonies, the committee revealed this year’s much-awaited theme, Binodini, which pays homage to Nati Binodini, a trailblazing figure in Bengali theater who represents bravery, decency, and artistic genius.

The occasion was graced by eminent guests like Sri. Sovandeb Chattopadhyay, Minister of Agriculture, Govt of WB, Sri. Madan Mitra, MLA, Sri. Kartik Banerjee, Social Activist, Smt. Papiya Singh, Councillor, Sri. Sandip Ranjan Bakshi, Councillor, Sri. Ashim Basu, Councillor, Smt. Kajari Banerjee, Councillor, Smt. Debalina Biswas, Councilor, Sri. Sayan Deb Chatterjee, State Secretary of West Bengal Trinamool Youth Congress, and many others.

Speaking to the media, Mr. Subir Das, Club Secretary, said, “The Khuti Puja at Bhowanipur 75 Palli signifies the emotional beginning of our annual journey as well as the spiritual beginning of our Durga Puja celebrations. We think Durga Puja is an opportunity to honor our past and spread awareness through a poignant narrative, not merely a party. With “Binodini” as our theme this year, we honor a lost Bengali theater legend whose legacy lives on. We aim to start important discussions about equality, dignity, and remembrance via art, culture, and community involvement”.

Beyond its cultural significance, Bhowanipur 75 Palli continues to fulfill its social obligations by supporting a number of humanitarian projects with money raised during Durga Puja. These programs offer year-round assistance to impoverished families, healthcare services, and educational support.

Priyanka Dutta