Thakurpukur State Bank Park Sarbojanin Durgotsav
Brief History of Thakurpukur State Bank Park Sarbojanin Durgotsav:
- Establishment & Age: Thakurpukur State Bank Park Sarbojanin Durgotsav began in 1971 and celebrates its 54th year in 2025.
- Location: 50, State Bank Park, Thakurpukur, Kolkata- 700 063, near Thakurpukur metro station, South Kolkata.
Themes:
- 2024 Theme: “Amader Dugga Maa” (Our Mother Goddess) – The 2024 theme was inspired by the creativity and imagination of children, focusing on a child’s world as interpreted through their drawings and perspectives. The pandal utilized sketches by young Samriddha Das, with outer walls in monochrome (“a world where children are shackled”) and inner spaces full of colour (representing children’s imagination and freedom). The idol and décor became a sensation among children, with installations chosen for preservation by Chander Haat Art Collective.
- 2023 Theme: “Elem Notun Deshe” (We have arrived in a new land) – This theme focused on migration, belonging, and the search for a new home. It welcomed visitors from all backgrounds and displayed banners from every Indian state in its native language, symbolizing unity in diversity.
- Past Themes:
- Noted for large, spectacular pandals and refined idol-making – often featuring gracious, innovative representations of Goddess Durga.
USP:
- Child-Centric Innovation: Known for pandals and themes inspired by children’s art, imagination, and inclusivity, making it a favourite for families with young visitors.
- Social Resonance & Inclusion: Frequently uses art to comment on belonging, migration, unity, and creativity – inviting and celebrating diversity in Behala’s cosmopolitan setting.
- Award-Winning Consistency: Inducted into Kolkata’s Puja Hall of Fame for sustained excellence in safety, art, and management; consistently recognized with major civic and cultural awards.
- Community Welfare: Demonstrates serious attention to visitor safety, disability inclusion (wheelchair access), and sound management systems.
- Star Collaborations: Regularly collaborates with prominent artists, musicians, and celebrities to craft themes, idol, decor, and music.
Additional Notes:
- Huge Local Footfall: Strong para (local) participation and crowd appeal, especially from children and neighbourhood families.
- Preservation of Art: Pandal and idols have been selected for permanent preservation due to unique, child-inspired artistry.
In summary:
Thakurpukur State Bank Park Sarbojanin Durgotsav, founded in 1971 and now 54 years old – is acclaimed for child-inspired imaginative themes (like “Amader Dugga Maa”), social inclusivity, excellence in safety and management, and crowd-pleasing artistry in Behala’s festival circuit.
