Preparations for the Sharadiya Durga Puja are in full swing in Chattogram. Artisans are busy day and night crafting idols. With the final touches of colour and brush, clay idols are becoming even more exquisite. The artists have created idols priced from a maximum of Tk300,000 to a minimum of Tk35,000.
However, artists report that idol sales have declined compared to last year. This year, Durga Puja will be celebrated at 292 pavilions in the city, along with 1,614 pavilions in 15 upazilas.
Sunday marks the auspicious Mahalaya, which heralds the beginning of Devi Paksha. The main festivities will commence on September 28 with Sasthi.
Law enforcement agencies have taken all necessary measures to ensure overall security for the puja celebrations. CCTV cameras are being installed at most pavilions. Chattogram District Administrator Farida Khanam said, “The district administration has made all arrangements for celebrating Durga Puja in a festive environment. Like every year, this year too, the Sharadiya Durga Puja will be observed in the district with communal harmony, religious solemnity, and a festive and peaceful atmosphere. The interim government is giving the highest priority to this matter.”
On the ground, it is observed that in some places, artists are putting the final touches on idols, while in others, the installation of idols in pavilions has already been completed. In anticipation of the puja, crowds of shoppers have increased at the city’s Teri Bazar, Riazuddin Bazar, and various shopping malls.
Idol artist Poresh Pal shared that he started making idols about four months ago. Now, the final coloring is underway. He sells each idol for between Tk25,000 and Tk150,000. Many puja committees have already taken delivery of their ordered idols. This year, they have made about 200 idols, meeting demand not only in Chattogram but also in surrounding districts.
A visit to Sadarghat in the city revealed that artists work through the night and rest during the day. When asked the reason for working at night, Poresh explained, “We can work uninterrupted at night, so we prefer to work then.”
Meanwhile, special discounts are available at Teri Bazar, Riazuddin Bazar, and shopping malls. Coupon systems have also been introduced to attract customers. The manager of Afmi Plaza noted, “Sales increase during religious festivals, and this year’s puja is no exception.”
Abdul Mannan, president of the Teri Bazar Business Association, said, “New designs of clothing have arrived in the market for Durga Puja. Customers are buying clothes of their choice. To manage crowds and ensure security, battery-powered rickshaws have been banned from entering the market. Additionally, extra personnel have been deployed for traffic control with police assistance.”
Supriyo Mazumdar Dolon, general secretary of the Chattogram District Puja Celebration Council, mentioned that this year the number of public pavilions has increased by 19, reaching a total of 1,614. Preparations began three months ago. He expressed hope that the two-day holiday would enhance the festive joy. In his view, there is no risk of any disruption during this year’s puja.
Sourav Priyo Pal, member secretary of the Sri Sri Janmashtami Celebration Council Bangladesh, stated, “We are in regular contact with the administration to ensure the puja is safe and festive. The administration has assured full cooperation. CCTV cameras have been installed at puja pavilions, and monitoring cells have been formed for volunteers and discipline.”
