2 days back Deccan, the rechristened Kingfisher-Air Deccan carrier, flew into Cooch Behar, heralding a new era in Bengal’s aviation history. The fact that the local people at Cooch Behar assembled at the airport to welcome the flight in more than a decade and a half spoke volumes of their enthusiasm. Cooch Behar used to […]

Several big pujas I made rounds of in the daytime turned into huge crowd pullers as the day wore on. And though one may argue the lighting at the pandals is equally enchanting, I’ve always felt it is still not worth the long queues, traffic snarl, lost time, and grimy sweating that you invariably face […]

I always liked the grandeur and artistry of puja pandals in Kolkata. Durga Puja epitomizes the perfect setting for showing off the skill, and the range of works on display simply takes one’s breath away. Say anything if you rue that the old bonhomie is no longer apparent, or that there is too much of […]

At Mudiali there is no beating drums about themes for Durga Puja. There is mostly no pomp, grandeur, or shouting from rooftops. The fare is mostly simple yet grand. Mudiali Club’s puja reminds one of a well-laid plan nicely executed, a cohesive unit at work, and excelling at whatever model is chosen. For me seeing […]

It’s not that I targeted this puja. But when I happen to pass by it on Manoharpukur Road this morning, I can’t help but pause a while to see the puja. The façade resembles an old castle – an old rage among Kolkatta’s famed pujas – and it’s well made. What however steals your attention […]

If you’re linked in, you may have a half-chance. If not, have no fear. Just tread to Maddox Square on the puja days. There is a fair chance you’ll come across your old pal. If luck is not in favor, you may meet the pal of your pal or someone who happens to know where […]

If yesterday was dry today is bright. Kolkattans have today woken up to a dazzling sunlit morning. The sky is clear, a gentle breeze blowing that indicates there is less likelihood of rains. The newspapers have dutifully mentioned the rush of pandal hoppers the entire day yesterday, but the big news is that the CBI […]

In my young days the only pujas in the north that drew us from the south of the city used to be those of Vivekananda Sporting Club and Simla Byam Samity, both in Maniktala. Of course we would also see Bagbazar Sarbojanin, and if mood permitted, the pujas at Ahiritola and Kumartuli. Now, the only […]

The newspaper says Suruchi Sangha’s budget this year is around Rs.9 lakhs. If so, it’s evident in their entire puja setup. Suruchi Sangha is located at New Alipore petrol pump. It shot into prominence a few years ago on the back of their silver jubilee celebration (if my memory serves me right). Since then there’s […]

For once it appeared the puja days would be awash with ungodly rains. Such was the intensity this morning that all hopes of enjoyment during the 3 main puja days vanished in the thin air. I ventured out on a personal work, and all I could see everywhere were dismal faces decidedly downcast at the […]