This year, the Kashi Bose Lane Durga Puja Samity has drawn immense crowds with its innovative theme, **”Ratnagarbha”**, which celebrates the transformative power of education and the legacy of social reformers like Raja Rammohan Roy and Pandit Ishwarchandra Vidyasagar. The theme has resonated with visitors, who are moved by the poignant message that true value is reflected in actions, not just words.
The pandal, designed by the renowned architect **Rintu Das**, beautifully brings to life the contributions of these two great Bengali leaders. The name “Ratnagarbha” symbolizes the “jewel-bearing” nature of these reformers, who, through their groundbreaking efforts, helped uplift marginalized communities and advocate for women’s rights. The legacy of Rammohan Roy’s crusade against sati and Vidyasagar’s relentless pursuit of women’s education and widow remarriage are at the heart of this theme, reminding visitors of the progress Bengal has made through the contributions of such visionaries.
One of the most awe-inspiring elements of the pandal is the display of an original petition against the inhumane practice of *sati* signed by Raja Rammohan Roy, an artifact that has been painstakingly collected by the organizers. Additionally, the efforts of Vidyasagar to reform society through education have been highlighted, making this year’s celebration not just a spiritual journey, but an educational one.
The theme of “Ratnagarbha” stands as a powerful reflection of the ongoing relevance of these historic figures, linking Bengal’s rich cultural heritage with the enduring need for social equity and education reform. Kashi Bose Lane Durga Puja Samity’s tribute to these “Ratnagarbhas” reminds everyone of the individual contributions necessary to build a fairer society, and it has left a lasting impact on all those who have visited the pandal this year.
The Kashi Bose Lane Durga Puja Samity has once again succeeded in intertwining art, history, and social consciousness, making it a must-visit destination for those looking to experience not just the beauty of Durga Puja, but also its deep cultural and intellectual significance.
By Sudipta Arnav Mukherjee