We all know about the Jagadhatri Pujo celebrations in Chandannagar. But did you know that the puja is done with much devotion in Krishnanagar, Nadia too. The popularity of the Jagadhatri pujo in Krishnanagar has not only been confined to Bengal but has spread to the other parts of India as well.

The Puja is done within a day. The grandeur and celebration that happens during this time is at par with the Durga Puja celebrations of Kolkata. During Jagadhatri Pujo, Krishnanagar is decked up in light works. According to the people of this district, it is said that Raja Krishna Chandra Ray was captured by Nawab Siraj Ud-Daulah. That year Durga Puja was not organized in Krishnanagar. Instead when the Raja was released after one month, the Goddess asked him to start this Pujo. It is from then onwards that the people of Krishnanagar have been celebrating the Puja with much grandeur.

The Rajbari is 250 years old and the descendants now continue with their tradition and heritage. Raja’s descendant is Ranima Amrita Ray. Apart from the Raja’s family, many other families likes Laha bari, Pal bari and others still celebrate the puja by using gas light to deck up the pandal. They do not use electric lights.

Apart from this, the local pujo committees engage in themes and they bring the best of themes during Jagadhatri Pujo. Swikriti Club, Patrabazar Barowari, Ghurni Shibtola Barowari are some of the pujo committees who have gained popularity due to their special themes.

The immersion of the idols is also done with much fanfare. A carnival just like the Durga Puja carnival in Kolkata is done before the immersion is done. Women dhakis and dhunuchi dancers accompany the immersion team.

Jagadhatri Pujo in Krishnanagar is a spectacle that needs to be seen. So if you are planning to go pandal hopping the next Jagadhatri Pujo, make sure you visit Krishnanagar.

Priyanka Dutta