Housing complexes throughout Kolkata ushered in the year's festival calendar with vibrant Saraswati Puja celebrations on Friday, blending traditional religious observances with patriotic themes commemorating Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose's birth anniversary. From condominiums in New Town and along EM Bypass to cooperative societies in south and north Kolkata, communities came together for a day of devotion, cultural exchange, and social bonding.
Community Spirit Shines Across Kolkata Neighborhoods
At South City, residents began their day early with events marking Subhas Chandra Bose's birth anniversary before transitioning to Saraswati Puja preparations. The evening saw the pandal transform into a bustling community hub, culminating in bhog distribution that attracted residents across all age groups. "The enthusiastic participation was truly heartening," remarked Manoj Gupta, a member of the Residents Welfare Association at South City.
Festive Celebrations with Patriotic Undertones
Most housing complexes skillfully combined Saraswati Puja with patriotic elements, creating a unique fusion of cultural and national pride. With Republic Day just three days away, many societies incorporated national flags alongside traditional puja decorations. New Town Heights in New Town, Ruchira Residency on EM Bypass, and Apsara Apartment on Park Street were among those that prominently displayed the tricolor while maintaining authentic festival aesthetics.
"After the puja ceremonies, we distributed gifts to children," explained Sanwar Agarwal, secretary of Apsara Apartment on Park Street. "Our celebrations will continue through Monday with cultural programs and a community lunch, ensuring the festive spirit remains alive."
Diverse Celebrations Across Residential Complexes
At Siddha Pines in Rajarhat, approximately 600 residents gathered for a community lunch following the puja rituals. "Our celebrations will extend until Republic Day, when we plan to host a special cultural event," shared Manav Mehra, the complex secretary.
Silver Spring on EM Bypass and Greenwood Elements in New Town erected separate platforms for Netaji's birth anniversary and Saraswati Puja, allowing residents to honor both occasions distinctly. "The consecutive holidays resulted in exceptional participation from our community members," noted Ashok Baid, an RWA member of Silver Spring.
Extending Festive Spirit Beyond Complex Boundaries
Some societies demonstrated remarkable community outreach during their celebrations. Daffodil Greens in Tollygunge organized a mass lunch for residents of a nearby slum area, extending their festive generosity beyond their own complex. "We wanted to share the spirit of festivity with our broader community," said Sudip Roychowdhury, the complex secretary.
The back-to-back holidays created a perfect opportunity for extended celebrations, with many housing societies planning events through Republic Day. This convergence of religious festival and national commemorations has fostered stronger community bonds while honoring both cultural traditions and patriotic values.
From traditional puja rituals to cultural performances and community meals, Kolkata's housing societies have set a vibrant tone for the year's festival calendar, demonstrating how urban residential communities can preserve cultural traditions while fostering social cohesion and patriotic spirit.
