Swastika Ganguly
Auckland, October 18, 2021
Durga Pooja is marked as an Annual Festival by Bengalis throughout the world
Members of the Bengali community had a unique experience of praying and watching Durga Pooja performed at the home of a member and streamed live, and a cultural programme, performed by artistes in their respective bubbles, also streamed live online by another member from her home for participants and members throughout the country.
Organised by Nandan, an Association promoting Bengali language, culture and tradition, the Pooja and Programme had been planned as a three-day event (October 15 to 17, 2021) at a Community Centre. However, in view of gathering restrictions imposed by the government as a part of the current Covid-19 Alert Level 3, it was conducted as a home-event.
As a community that adheres to the laws of the land was keen to bring together people to mark the annual festival.
Music was a highlight at the event held from the home of Swastika Ganguly
Golden Age of Virtual Media
This pandemic crisis has ushered in a golden age of virtual media, offering new life and access to arts and culture, which we can enjoy from our respective bubbles in these unprecedented times. While the world has never felt more physically isolated before, this digital platform has offered a bridge, as well as an exciting range of experiences to fight depression and to cope with the stresses of Covid and lockdown fatigue.
As the Cultural Secretary of Nandan, I was delighted and felt privileged to host the Cultural Programme on Saturday, October 18, 2021. I am grateful to Sohini Bhattacharya, also our Cultural Secretary, for her enthusiasm, efforts and supports in organising this event.
The Durga Pooja Festival was for all ages
The Bengali Spirit
We showcased the cultural skills of our members from three generations, irrespective of any differences. The Programme included music, dance, recitation, a short skit and sharing a story that brought out the essence of Durga Puja and all its nostalgia. The Bengali spirit is deeply felt by us in our hearts and minds and the event was in our quintessential Bengali style ‘adda.’ This helped to bring us, our whanau together culturally and socially, despite being physically apart.
On behalf of Nandan, I wish all of you a very prosperous, joyous and fun-filled festive season. May Goddess Durga bestow on us all with Her blessings, loads of happiness and health in this festive season, and guide us with Her Divine Energy to live happily keeping our spirits alive and spreading love in these harrowing times.
Virtual Programme in progress (Swastika Ganguly is at the extreme right)
About Nandan
The primary goal of Nandan is to make Bengalis feel at home, located thousands of kilometres away from their Motherland. Throughout the year, Nandan organises cultural, religio-social programmes like Independence Day, Durga Puja, Lakshmi Puja, Saraswati Puja, Annual Picnic and Pohela Boishakh (Bengali New Year), to mention a few. We also conduct our ‘Natak’ (drama) which is enjoyed by our members and non-members alike. Nandan is therefore a household name.
