Even though an arrest was made right away, the public’s anger was stoked by claims of a cover-up and evidence manipulation that soon emerged. Kolkata’s streets have been occupied by human chains, candlelight vigils, and daily protests ever since. At present, the biggest celebration in the city is taking place amidst the fiercest demonstrations in recent memory.
The largest yearly celebration in Kolkata is Durga Puja, which honors the goddess Durga, who is believed to have ten arms and travels with her entire family to her earthly dwelling.
In Durga Puja pandals, which are makeshift temples, the goddess is seated atop a lion and is surrounded by her offspring, including the elephant-headed god Ganesha and the warrior god Kartikeya on his peacock.
At her feet, however, rests the vanquished buffalo demon, signifying the victory of good over evil.
Not just the gods can draw large audiences these days. The pandals have grown increasingly ornate. Some imitate famous sites, such as the Sundarbans mangrove forests or Dubai’s Burj Khalifa. Other installations have social messages, such as “save handicrafts, pray for world peace, and conserve water.”
As a result, many began to refer to Durga Puja as one of the world’s largest street art events. According to Dhrubajyoti Bose Suvo, secretary of Mass Art, the arts organization has been arranging previews of particular pujas, particularly so that visitors from other countries can understand how a “city transforms into a public gallery.”
