
Barisha Club (Behala) Durgotsav
Brief History of Barisha Club (Behala) Durgotsav:
- Establishment & Age: Barisha Club Durga Puja, was founded in 1971 by community members, including the Ganguly family. In 2025, the puja marks its 54th year.
- Location: 5 & 8, Santosh Roy Road, Behala, Barisha, Kolkata- 700 008, South Kolkata.
Themes:
- 2025 Theme: Sunno Prithibi (“Empty Earth”) – This year focuses on the ecological dangers facing our world, portraying a haunting vision of a planet stripped of its natural wealth—the consequences of environmental neglect and depletion. Through immersive decor and materials, “Sunno Prithibi” calls for reflection on human actions and hopes for renewal.
- 2024 Theme: Basati (“Habitation”) – The theme traced Barisha’s journey from Sundarbans forest to urban settlement, showcasing environmental loss and the displacement of wildlife by expanding human civilization. The pandal featured eco-friendly materials, wildlife motifs, and invoked reflection on lost natural habitats.
- 2023 Theme: Bhanga Gora (“Broken Boundary”) – Highlighted the devastation caused by war and conflict, with visuals of destruction, displaced families, and symbols of peace such as doves, sending a strong message against violence.
- 2021 Theme: Bhaager Maa (“Divided Mother”) – Centered on the NRC and migrant/refugee crisis, the goddess was depicted as a migrant mother crossing borders, surrounded by barbed wire and refugee motifs, stirring national conversations for its social and political commentary.
USP:
- Bold Socio-Political Commentary: Regularly creates themes around migration, environmentalism, war, and social justice, making each year relevant to current affairs and giving the festival civic impact.
- Immersive & Eco-Friendly Artistry: Known for large-scale installations, sustainable materials, and powerful narrative-driven décor—making their pandal a must-see for artistry and message.
- Community Engagement: Led by local associations and families, the club blends Behala’s heritage, artistic innovation, and social service through its celebrations.
- Media & Award Magnet: Frequent winner of Asian Paints Sharad Samman, lauded by national and international media, and attracts huge crowds year after year.
Additional Notes:
- Strong Cultural Programming: Hosts music, performances, and celebrity guests, drawing Kolkata’s intellectual and artistic communities.
- Local Legacy: The Ganguly family (including Sourav Ganguly) have deep ties to the puja’s history and leadership, sustaining the festival’s growth for over five decades.
In summary:
Barisha Club (Behala) Durgotsav, since 1971, is now in its 54th year and renowned for social, environmental, and humanitarian themes – like “Sunno Prithibi,” “Basati,” “Bhanga Gora,” and “Bhaager Maa.” Its blend of artistry, activism, and legacy makes it a centerpiece in South Kolkata’s festival map.
