From Syama Prasad Mookerjee to Vande Mataram, Lord Ram: Themes dominating Durga Puja this year
Durga Puja celebrations in West Bengal are increasingly incorporating political themes, including tributes to Syama Prasad Mookerjee and Lord Ram. This shift follows the recent transition to a BJP-led government in the state.
Why it matters
The integration of political figures into religious festivals reflects the evolving cultural and political landscape in West Bengal under new leadership.
From Syama Prasad Mookerjee to Vande Mataram, Lord Ram: Themes dominating Durga Puja this year left West Bengal Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari performs aarti to Goddess Durga during the inaugural ceremony of Reapara Durga Puja, in East Midnapore on October 16, 2026 ANI ANI https://th-i.thgim.com/public/incoming/91uss9/article71595311.ece/alternates/FREE_1200/20261016406L.jpg ANI East Midnapore, Oct 16 (ANI): West Bengal Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari performs aarti to Goddess Durga during the inaugural ceremony of Reapara Durga Puja, in East Midnapore on Friday. (ANI Photo) This year, Jana Sangh’s founder Syama Prasad Mookerjee, National Song Vande Mataram and its writer, Bankim Chandra Chattopadhyay, and Lord Ram appear to be the key themes at the festival Kolkata Beyond religious customs, the themes of different Durga Puja pandals across West Bengal often reflect the changing social and political mood of the people.
Get smarter about the news
Sign up free for a feed built around what you actually care about, Dive Deeper research on any story, and the full text of every article.
Create free accountAlready have an account? Sign in