In a unique convergence of creativity and compassion, the Karma Social and Welfare Trust hosted a vibrant two-day Art and Cultural Festival. This year’s event was dedicated to the life and legacy of the late Shri Bijay Roy, a renowned journalist and dedicated social worker whose lifelong philosophy continues to inspire humanitarian efforts across Bengal.

While the trust’s annual gathering is typically a one-day affair, the scale was expanded this year to support a significant new milestone: the establishment of an orphanage in the Dhonekhali area of the Sundarbans.

The festival commenced with a moving tribute to Shri Bijay Roy. Organizers emphasized that Roy’s commitment to social responsibility serves as the primary blueprint for the trust’s initiatives.

The opening day saw a massive artistic gathering:

• Artistic Expression: Nearly 70 to 80 established artists from across West Bengal, alongside talented child prodigies, brought canvases to life. These artworks are slated to be permanently displayed at the upcoming Sundarbans orphanage.
• Cultural Heritage: The stage featured a rich tapestry of Bengal’s folk traditions, including Tribal dance, the iconic Chhau dance of Purulia, and performances by a dance troupe from Birati.
• Special Guests: The late Bijay Roy’s eldest son and prominent social worker, Sanjay Roy, attended as the guest of honor. He expressed deep emotional gratitude toward the trust for honoring his father’s memory through such a noble cause. Other dignitaries included Kunal Shah (WB Boxing Federation), renowned film director Badal Sarkar, and social workers Anirban Samanta and Mahua Baidya.

The second day focused on youth engagement and the long-term vision of the trust. Highlights included:

• Sit-and-Draw Competition: Children aged 2 to 16 participated in a massive art competition, using their creativity to connect with social themes.
• Advocacy: Through music and dance, the organizers presented the roadmap for the Sundarbans orphanage project, highlighting the urgent need for such a facility in the remote region.
• Distinguished Visitors: The concluding day saw the presence of Nasquin Box (WBCS), celebrated painter Dibakar Chakraborty, actor-director Ritwick Jaiswal, actress Innaya Chowdhury, producer Arjun Gupta, social worker Seema Bhowmik, and model Sahani Chatterjee.

The event concluded with a prize-winning ceremony for the young participants, marking the end of a festival that successfully merged aesthetic beauty with social duty.

Beyond this festival, the Karma Social and Welfare Trust is a fixture in Bengal’s philanthropic circuit. Every December, the organization hosts blood donation camps, health check-ups, and clothing drives. This year, however, their sights are set on the horizon of the Sundarbans, aiming to provide a home and a future for the underprivileged through the Dhonekhali orphanage project.

Priyanka Dutta