Jharkhand’s Durga Puja Pandals Feature Army Tributes and Temple Replicas

As Durga Puja approaches from September 28 to October 2, Jharkhand's pandals are transforming into immersive spectacles that blend patriotism, spirituality, and cultural heritage. Artists from neighboring West Bengal are putting final touches to over 160 elaborate marquees across Ranchi district alone, drawing pandal hoppers into themes ranging from military valor to life's profound journey and architectural wonders. These creations not only honor Goddess Durga but also weave in contemporary narratives and timeless artistry, promising an unforgettable festival experience.

In Ranchi, the Mahashakti Durga Puja Committee (MDPC) at Booty More has crafted a poignant tribute to 'Operation Sindoor,' commemorating India's response to the tragic Pahalgam terror attack that claimed 26 lives. As visitors enter the 50,000-square-foot pandal, they are greeted by a simulated Pahalgam landscape of mountains and greenery, complete with models depicting the terrorist assault on innocent tourists.

The narrative escalates to showcase the Indian Army's valiant retaliation, featuring replicas of fighter jets, tanks, and the destruction of enemy targets in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir. MDPC secretary Arvind Shah explained, "Our goal is to highlight Pakistan's cowardice, the Army's heroism, and instill patriotism." A 4.30-minute laser show narrates the events, illuminated by thematic lighting, all erected at a cost of Rs 70 lakh by over 50 West Bengal artisans. The pandal opens to the public on Wednesday evening.

Echoing this patriotic fervor, the Netaji Nagar Durga Puja Committee (NNDPC) at Kantatoli has also adopted the 'Operation Sindoor' theme in a 40-foot-high structure. The entrance gate embodies Bharat Mata, while the fierce idol of Maa Durga stands against a backdrop of freedom fighters executed during India's independence struggle. Inside, paintings by West Bengal artists illustrate the sacrifices in Pahalgam and the military's triumph. NNDPC president Amit Kumar Das emphasized, "We celebrate the Indian Army's glory." Built by 25 workers from Contai, West Bengal, this pandal underscores the festival's role in fostering national pride.

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Shifting to introspective depths, the Chandrasekhar Azad Durga Puja Committee near Albert Ekka Chowk presents 'Life-Journey,' a 55-foot-high pandal depicting the human odyssey from birth to death with spiritual undertones. Committee president Ramesh Singh noted, "It's our tradition to convey devotion, culture, and social messages through varied themes annually." Adorned with grand decorations for an immersive spiritual ambiance, the Rs 50 lakh creation involved 45 West Bengal workers, inviting devotees to reflect on life's stages amid the festivities.

Architectural grandeur takes center stage elsewhere in Ranchi. Bharatiya Yuvak Sangh at Bakri Bazar has erected a colossal 110-foot-high replica of Cambodia's Angkor Wat temple, housing a 36-foot-wide, 26-foot-high idol of the Goddess. Other committees have followed suit: Ram Lalla Durga Puja Samiti replicated Gujarat's Swaminarayan Temple at Zilla School Ground; a Prem Mandir of Mathura duplicate graces Harmu; a Tirupati Balaji temple lookalike stands near Ranchi railway station; and RR Sporting Club at Ratu Road recreated the Vatican Museum for Rs 85 lakh.

Beyond Ranchi, Jamshedpur's Kasidih pandal in Sakchi evokes Rajasthan across three sectors: vibrant Dandia dances of Navaratri, tableaus of Lord Krishna's life, and the central Durga idol. In Adityapur Colony, Praveen Seva Sansthan's 70-foot-high Udaipur Mahal replica, costing over Rs 40 lakh, showcases Rajasthan's art, camels, and villages. Dhanbad features an eco-friendly pandal of 50,000 earthen pots at Jharkhand Maidan by Satyam Shivam Sundaram Club, alongside a 'Sholay' movie-themed structure in Manaitand. These diverse themes ensure Jharkhand's Durga Puja 2025 is a tapestry of emotion, history, and innovation, drawing crowds to celebrate triumph over adversity.

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