On the auspicious evening of Shukla Tritiya in the month of Bhadra, North Kolkata witnessed the grand inauguration of the 19th annual Ganesh Puja organized by Nabajuba Sangha. The seven-day festivities officially commenced at 57/2 Keshab Chandra Sen Street, drawing a prominent gathering of community leaders, dignitaries, and political figures.

Among the distinguished attendees were West Bengal Legislative Assembly MLA Bijay Ojhha, Kolkata Municipal Corporation Councillor Meenadevi Purohit, Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) North Kolkata Organizational District President Tamoghna Ghosh, along with Jaynarayan Singh, Sanjay Kumar Mishra, and several other notable personalities. Their presence underscored the cultural and social significance of the event in the heart of the city.

The organizational success of this year’s celebration is driven by a dedicated team of leaders and community stakeholders.

• Chairman: Bijay Ojhha, MLA of the Jorasanko assembly constituency, is guiding the festival as the primary chairman.
• President: Tamoghna Ghosh, BJP North Kolkata Organizational District President, serves as the organizational president.
• Adviser: Prabandha Roy (Phanta)—famously known as “Fata Keshto” and a key pioneer of the renowned Kali Puja—holds the prestigious position of Chief Adviser.
• General Secretary: Rabiprakash Gupta, representing the organizing committee, oversees the day-to-day execution of the week-long events. Additionally, the invitation cards prominently feature the names of numerous individuals associated with the BJP’s North Kolkata organizational wing, highlighting strong community backing.

The general secretary, Rabiprakash Gupta, shared the detailed itinerary for the week-long celebration, blending devotion, community service, and cultural programs:

• Day 1 (Inauguration): The festivities kicked off with an enthusiastic “Bose Ako” (sit-and-draw) competition for children and adolescents.
• Days 2–3 (Rituals & Feast): Adhering to traditional Sanatani rituals, the main Ganesh Puja was performed inside the marquee, followed by a large-scale community Prasad (Bhog) distribution.
• Day 4 (Devotional Evening): The organizers arranged mesmerizing Mahakal bhajans and devotional Vandana dedicated to Lord Ganesh.
• Day 5 (Cultural Showcase): A vibrant cultural program highlighted local talent and festive zeal.
• Day 6 (Spiritual Night): The spiritual momentum continues with a grand Mata Rani Jagaran ceremony.
• Day 7 (Immersion): The week-long celebration will officially conclude with the immersion (Visarjan) of the earthly idol of Lord Ganesh in the holy waters of the Ganges.

Priyanka Dutta