While millions across the globe stand spellbound before the magnificent, breath-taking pandals that transform Kolkata into a living canvas during Durga Puja, the arduous labor of the master artisans who conceptualize and build these temporary architectural masterpieces from scratch rarely receives the spotlight it truly deserves. To honor these invisible heroes, the Adani Durga Puja preview extended crucial financial support this year to eight shortlisted puja pandals across the city, empowering creators to realize their grandest artistic visions without being constrained by tight budgets. For talented artists like Debashish Barui—who brought the ecological harmony theme of “sodhon” to life at Rajdanga Naba Uday Sangha through an intricate amalgamation of nature, sound, and handmade structures—this external backing provided the freedom needed to execute ambitious designs. For months leading up to the festival, these dedicated craftsmen leave their homes in distant districts, relocating temporarily inside pandals where they toil through sleepless nights, driven solely by the passion to make their art reach people and bring smiles to millions. Veterans like Dipankar Das and Somnath Chakraborty reflect on the bittersweet nature of their craft, noting that while the pandals they pour their souls into are eventually dismantled, the joy of creation remains unmatched, though they yearn for greater state encouragement and recognition to ensure traditional art forms thrive for future generations. Beyond championing the unseen creators, the Adani Durga Puja preview also prioritized inclusivity and accessibility by introducing QR codes at entry points that provide thematic audio guides in eight Indian and international languages, alongside sign language video interpretations tailored for visitors who are visually or hearing impaired. Ultimately, every moment of awe experienced by the surging crowds serves as a silent, profound tribute to the labor, identity, and unwavering devotion of these artisans, whose transient creations leave an unforgettable, permanent mark on Kolkata’s cultural landscape and keep the true spirit of Pujo alive for all.
