Atlanta, GA: The Bengali community in Atlanta came together in celebration from October 10 to 12 for the 14th annual Durgapuja event, organized by Purbasha, a prominent cultural group. Attracting over 1,000 people from across the Southeast, including Alabama, North Carolina, Tennessee, and Florida, the festival underscored the community's commitment to preserving and sharing its rich cultural traditions.
The highlight of the celebration was a remarkable performance of Rabindranath Tagore’s 'Chitrangada', which captivated the audience. Directed and choreographed by Parama Roy Bardhan, an expert in Indian classical dance forms such as Bharatanatyam and Kathak, the dance drama was a testament to her skill and artistry.
History has been Scripted !!!
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For the 1st time, Durga puja was organized at the centre of Times Square, New York City, United States. pic.twitter.com/QpTRdVDsxn
Parama, who took on the lead role, spent months preparing the Purbasha cultural team for the performance, and her dedication to the craft was clear. “My aim is to share the beauty of classical dance and make it accessible to all,” she said, emphasizing that dance is a universal language capable of connecting people across different cultures.
'Chitrangada', a personal passion project for Parama, delved into themes of love, identity, and empowerment in a way that resonated deeply with Atlanta’s Bengali community, leaving a lasting impression on those who watched.
Beyond the performances, the festival featured a lively marketplace with food and clothing vendors, adding to the festive atmosphere. Children enjoyed a range of activities tailored to their interests, while the popular Kolkata-based band Cactus delivered a lively performance that brought an air of excitement and nostalgia. The weekend concluded with the traditional 'sindur khela', a symbolic ritual marking the end of Durgapuja.
Purbasha President Arunava Roy expressed his gratitude for the community's overwhelming support, recognizing the collective effort that made the event successful. He emphasized the importance of such celebrations in honoring cultural heritage and nurturing a sense of unity within the community.
