In Her City

Kolkata is a lot like what Bombay used to be in the 80s and 90s.

Although I am not a street photographer, the five days I spent in the city in 2014 capturing the essence of Durga Puja were nothing short of inspiring. Durga Puja stands out as a time when the city comes alive with a unique spirit. It's like a call from the mothership, beckoning every Bengali from near and far to return and embrace their roots.

One distinct observation during my time in Kolkata was the active participation of women during the festival, especially in comparison to the men. There is an image of a group of men sitting on a raised platform while the women dance energetically. The heart of Durga Puja lies in the spirit of togetherness and reunion. The various pandals become places where people, often separated by years, come together again.

There's a growing attraction for people to come back to India to work. I wonder if in three years the essence of the festival and the close-knit community remain untouched, or will we witness a transformation? That's a question that piques my curiosity.

Parar PuJo: In Kolkata, each locality has its own pandal, where residents gather to celebrate

Reunion: Months go into creating a pandal for Durga Puja, with each depicting a unique theme and design

Adda: Pandals also double up as spaces to meet and socialise with others. People spend afternoons sharing stories and catching up

Dancing The Night Away: The joy of the festival is palpable throughout the streets of Calcutta

Varied Scenes From A Celebration: A group of men sitting on a raised platform next to the idols

Aabar Hobe: On Dashami, the idol is taken to be immersed as chants for Durga Maa to return next year echo throughout the city

City Of Joy: The visarjan of every idol in the city is accompanied by a grand procession to bid the goddess farewell