Theme on water release by DVC captures attention at Hooghly carnival
The Statesman | 5 October 2025Similar carnivals are replicated in many districts now.
The district Durga Puja Carnival was held at Serampore today. The vibrant procession began at 4 p.m. from Serampore Mahesh Jagannath Sanan Piri Math and culminated at Serampore Battala, followed by the immersion ceremony.
Various Barwari puja committees (community pujas) showcased different themes in the procession, mesmerising the audience. Traditional dhak and dhunuchi dances, Chhau performances, and tribal folk dances highlighted the rich artistic and cultural heritage of rural Bengal. The state government’s various welfare schemes were also creatively presented through colourful, rhythmic tableaux accompanied by the beats of drums.
Several tableaus carried strong messages promoting social welfare.
The Durga Puja Carnival was organised by the district information and cultural affairs department. The Puja Carnival 2025 at Serampore Mahesh was officially inaugurated on Saturday evening by Serampore MP Kalyan Banerjee, who flagged off the procession. Seventeen selected Puja committees from the district took part in the grand parade.
A special highlight of the event was the performance by an all-women dhaki troupe. The theme presented by Khanakul’s Ghoshpur Sarvajanin—DVC-r Jale Khanakuler Artnaad (Khanakul woes after DVC’s water release) was much appreciated by the spectators. Through powerful artistic expression, it depicted how the uncontrolled release of water from the DVC had disrupted the lives of people in Khanakul.
District magistrate Mukta Arya, commissioner of Chandannagar Police Commissionerate Amit P Jawalgi, Serampore SDO Shambhudeep Sarkar, local MLAs, municipal chairpersons and councillors, and other dignitaries were present at the event. Renowned singer Nachiketa Chakraborty also graced the occasion.
