Ms Melinda Pavek, Consul General of the United States Of America took part in the festive celebrations at Ahiritola Sarbojonin Durgotsav.

Also gracing the occasion were Mr Prabir Mitra, Chairman, Ahiritola Sarbojonin Durgotsav Samity, Mr Sanjay Chandra, Organising Secretary, Ahiritola Sarbojonin Durgotsav Samity, Mr Surojit De, Treasurer, Ahiritola Sarbojonin Durgotsav Samity and Mr Shamik Kumar Saha, General Secretary, Ahiritola Sarbojonin Durgotsav Samity. 

The Consul General performed the rituals of ‘Alta’ application at the goddess’ feet, ‘Trishul’ placement in her hands, and ‘Dhunuchi’ dance.

The Ahiritola Sarbojonin Durgotsab Samity’s annual puja this year has the theme of “Avinashwar”, or the one who does not perish. The Somnath temple in Gujarat served as the model for the Mandap. Shiva chants and 108 names of Shiva are used to embellish the pavilion. The first of the 12 Jyotirlingas is Somnath. Shiva, also known as Swayambhu or Aja—the unborn, eternal, immortal, or imperishable—is Somnath. The Somnath temple is also considered to be “imperishable” in this sense. This is referred to as Somnath Kshetra, Prabhas Tirtha, or Prabhas Kshetra, and other names in numerous ancient Sanskrit literature and traditions.

The age of this Prabhas Tirtha or Somnath is considered to be around 2000 years old based on this inscription. Since the beginning of time, this location has been regarded as one of the holy fields. This temple has reportedly been destroyed numerous times throughout history. This temple has repeatedly emerged in a different form after being destroyed. With the help of the locals in the area, this temple was erected in independent India. The temple was given a new appearance when all the ruins were cleared away. The temple is still in good condition. This past has been “immortalized” in the form of the motivation for countless others.

Speaking at the event, Melinda Pavek said “I am really honored to be a part of this festivity. Taking part in such festivities gives one a chance to understand the religion and also the culture very easily. It is a vibrant time in the city and I so love it”.

So, head to Ahiritola Sarbojonin Durgotsav this Durga Puja with friends and family to witness this amazing theme.

Priyanka Dutta