From themes to ‘Bonedi Bari’ nostalgia, housing societies explore fresh ideas for puja celebrations
Times of India | 23 September 2025At Silver Oak Estate in Rajarhat, the spotlight will be on greenery. Marking their 10th year of celebrations, residents plan to plant 2,000 saplings. "We will welcome the goddess in green with a pandal decorated with 500 trees," said puja committee president Amit Mukhopadhyay. "With a budget of Rs 20 lakh, including Rs 1 lakh on saplings from Arambagh, our aim is to inspire visitors to plant and protect trees."
The message of empowerment drives the puja at Srijan Midlands, Jessore Road, with their pandal showcasing woman achievers — Army officer Sophia Qureshi, pilot Vyomika Singh, and film-maker Anuparna Roy, whose debut won at the Venice Film Festival.
"We want to highlight women's success across fields and spread that message," said secretary Shova Chowdhury.
Tradition takes centre stage at Golpark Housing, where the 32nd year of puja is styled in Bagbazar's ‘sabeki' format. "We are trying to replicate the ‘Bonedi Bari' flavour to trace the festival's roots," said secretary Indrani Soma Dutta.
Social outreach is integral at Daffodil Greens, Chandi Ghosh Road, Tollygunge.
General secretary Sudip Roychowdhury said, "We will distribute umbrellas and aid for domestic workers and families in need."
At Adhunika Cooperative Housing Society, Lake Gardens, nearly 60 residents, including senior citizens, are organising the complex's 46th puja. "Our octogenarian members join with childlike enthusiasm," said secretary Avik Roy.
The cultural calendar is packed at 4Sight Grand Castle, Garia Mahamayatala, and Diamond City South, Tollygunge, where residents have lined up plays, dance dramas, and performances.
Celebrations at South City are set to be larger this year as the complex marks its 15th puja. "There will be community meals daily and evenings of music by acclaimed performers," said a resident, Manoj Gupta.
For Siddha Pines, Rajarhat, it is a year of firsts. The complex is shifting to a theme puja, with its pandal designed as an old Bengali palace. "We wanted to try something different," said resident Manav Mehra.
