Celebrating inclusivity at Navaratri Durga Puja

This year’s Durga Puja festivities were fusion of Bengali and Kannada traditions

The Sarjapur Outer Ring Road Bengali Association (SORRBA) successfully celebrated its 16th Durga Puja this year at the Samskruti Pavilion on Sarjapur Road, captivating attendees with a stunning recreation of a traditional Bengali Rajbari (royal mansion). The event, which has become one of the city’s most vibrant and inclusive festivals, brought a slice of Bengal’s rich heritage to Karnataka. This year’s festivities also paid a special tribute to the Sri Indrani Panchadurga Temple in Udupi, symbolising the fusion of Bengali and Kannada traditions and further strengthening cultural ties between the two regions.

SORRBA’s “Pancha Durga” theme, inspired by the temple and highlighting five incarnations of Goddess Durga, showcased intricate artistic representations that resonated with devotees and visitors alike. Each form of the goddess, embodying power and grace, was portrayed with grand detail, leaving an indelible impression on everyone who witnessed it. The festival also offered a variety of engaging activities, including face painting, games for children, and a lively flea market, ensuring there was something for all ages to enjoy.

As part of the cultural celebration, SORRBA hosted renowned Kannada artists during the Ashtami evening for a vibrant Bollywood Night, featuring performances by Govind Kurnool, Divya Raghavan, Narasimha Kannan, and Shruthi Bhide.

Moreover, on Navami night, the audience will be treated to an enchanting performance by Ankita, the winner of Zee Sa Re Ga Ma, who shall be serenading the crowd with Bengali culture. A highlight of the event was the community feast, or “bhog,” where attendees from diverse backgrounds gathered to enjoy traditional Bengali vegetarian cuisine. Food stalls offering a variety of Indian dishes added to the festive atmosphere.

For more details, visit www.sorrba.org