What are some cultural differences between Barowari Puja Parikrama and other forms of Durga Puja celebrations?

Question

durgapuja parikrama in Kolkata

Answer 1

Durga Puja is a Hindu festival that celebrates the victory of the goddess Durga over the demon Mahishasura. It is widely celebrated in India, especially in the eastern states of West Bengal, Assam, Bihar, Odisha and Tripura. Durga Puja has various forms and traditions, depending on the region, community and history. Here are some cultural differences between barowari puja parikrama and other forms of Durga Puja celebrations:

• Barowari Puja Parikrama is a term that refers to the practice of visiting different community or public Durga Puja pandals or marquees in Kolkata and other cities. The word barowari means 'twelve friends' and it originated from the first community Durga Puja that was organized by twelve friends in Guptipara village in 1970. Barowari puja parikrama is a popular activity among locals and tourists, who enjoy the artistic and creative displays of idols, decorations, themes and lighting in various pandals. Barowari puja parikrama also showcases the diversity and unity of different communities, cultures and religions that participate in the festival.

Other forms of Durga Puja celebrations include: Bonedi barir puja or aristocratic family puja, which is the oldest traditional form of Durga Puja that dates back to the 16th century. Akhra puja or folk puja, which is performed by the rural and tribal communities of West Bengal and other states. Theme puja or modern puja that emerged in the late 20th century and became popular in the 21st century. 

Answer 2

The goddess Durga's victory over the demon king Mahishasura is commemorated during Durga Puja. While Barowari has importance related with the Durga Puja celebration, wherein the Hindu Goddess Durga is adored; representing the triumph of good over evil.

Answer 3

Barowari Puja Parikrama, also known as the Barowari Puja Carnival, is a unique cultural aspect of Durga Puja celebrations in Kolkata, West Bengal, India. Here are some cultural differences compared to other forms of Durga Puja celebrations:

• Organizational Structure: Barowari Puja involves community-based organizations known as "Barowari" or "Baroyari" committees. Each committee independently organizes and funds the puja, creating a collective effort.

• Public Participation: Barowari Puja is open to the public, attracting large crowds who visit multiple pandals (temporary structures) across the city during the parikrama (procession).

• Artistic Excellence: Barowari Puja committees compete to create the most elaborate and innovative pandals and idols. The artistic elements often reflect current events, themes, or social issues.

• Traditional Rituals: Despite its grandeur, Barowari Puja maintains traditional rituals, such as the idol installation, prayers, and immersion ceremony.

• Inclusive Nature: Barowari Puja transcends religious boundaries, welcoming people from diverse backgrounds and beliefs to participate and enjoy the festivities.

Barowari Puja Parikrama has become an integral part of Kolkata's cultural identity and highlights the community spirit and artistic brilliance associated with Durga Puja in the region.

Answer 4

Barowari Puja Parikrama, commonly observed in West Bengal, involves organized processions where the idol of Goddess Durga is taken to various locations for immersion, attracting participation from people of different backgrounds. In contrast, other forms of Durga Puja celebrations often involve individual households or smaller communities worshiping the deity in their homes or neighborhood pandals, with less emphasis on processions and wider community involvement.

Answer 5

Barowari Puja Parikrama is a form of Durga Puja celebration that is unique to West Bengal and is characterized by several cultural differences compared to other forms of Durga Puja celebrations. Some of the key differences are:

1. Community involvement: Barowari Puja Parikrama is organized by a group of people who come together to celebrate the festival. It involves the participation of the entire community, and people from all walks of life come together to organize and celebrate the festival.

2. Pandal hopping: During Barowari Puja Parikrama, people go on pandal hopping tours to visit various Durga Puja pandals in the city. This is a unique cultural experience that allows people to explore different parts of the city and experience the festival in different ways.

3. Traditional rituals: Barowari Puja Parikrama involves several traditional rituals that are unique to this form of Durga Puja celebration. These rituals include the "anjali" or offering of flowers to Goddess Durga, "sindoor khela" or playing with vermilion powder, and "dhunuchi naach" or dancing with incense burners.

4. Social significance: Barowari Puja Parikrama has significant social significance as it brings people from different communities and backgrounds together to celebrate the festival. It promotes social harmony and unity and is a symbol of the cultural diversity of West Bengal.