RISHAV BASAK

                               The Durga Puja Countdown : A Time for Excitement and Eagerness    Durga Puja: A festival of colours, culture, and community, where the goddess Durga is worshipped as the incarnation of strength, power, and wisdom. Durga Puja, the biggest festival in India, is a vibrant and joyous celebration of the Hindu goddess Durga. While it is celebrated by people of all faiths and backgrounds across the country, it is particularly revered by the Bengali population. The five-day festival is a time for Bengalis to come together and celebrate their culture and heritage. From the elaborate pandals (temporary temples) that are handcrafted in every neighbourhood to the colourful clothes and delicious food that are enjoyed by all, Durga Puja is a truly unique and special experience. In 2021, UNESCO declared Durga Puja a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity, a recognition of i...

 Bari-phera - Away from Home, but Not Far from Heart ( A Durga Puja Tale) "Hello Maa, I don't think I will be able to come home for this puja. Boss has not granted me any leave" "But MumMum you never have been alone during puja." I knew that my maa had never been without me during puja and somewhere in between those lines she was being teary. "All your friends are also coming home. Won't you be able to come home for just two days?" "Na maa... Seems like it will not be possible this time. Work is important. I will try to come home during Diwali." Though my mother was not happy, she said, "OK MumMum, I understand. I will tell Baba that you won't be able to come this time. Take care Beta and don't worry about us. We will be fine". Saying this she hung up the phone. I kept the phone aside. How could I not worry? I could feel a drop of tears rolling down my left cheek. I was still in my office clothes. I quickly got up and we...