Patna: Eco-friendly decorations, pandals modelled on temples from across the country, sparrow-themed installations and immersion processions accompanied by traditional devotional music were among the new experiences that stood out during this year’s Durga Puja here. While pandal hopping and food stalls remained major attractions, several initiatives by puja committees offered visitors something different to remember.The use of leaves and jute at the Dak Bungalow puja pandal caught the attention of visitors, highlighting a growing effort to make celebrations environmentally friendly. Amit Barua, treasurer of Nav Yuvak Sangh Shri Durga Puja Samiti, Dak Bungalow, said the organisers had consciously chosen sustainable materials as part of their effort to protect the environment.Environmental awareness also found expression in the themes of some other pandals. According to Naresh Agarwal, a shopkeeper at Rajdhani Market, two pandals showcased sparrow-themed installations, bringing attention towards the protection of birds and nature through festive displays.Agarwal was particularly impressed by an immersion procession in which musicians playing dhol and manjira were accompanied by devotees singing devotional songs. “I have been associated with different puja committees and, in my 30 years of experience, have mostly seen DJs and bands accompanying immersion processions. This time, people were singing devotional songs, which was truly heart-touching,” he said.For families, too, the pandals offered more than elaborate decorations. Many were modelled on famous temples from different parts of the country, giving visitors an opportunity to explore architectural styles and learn about India’s cultural heritage without leaving the city.Puja Singh, a mother of two kids, said the festivities allowed her children to enjoy their holidays while learning about religion and culture.Cultural programmes at select locations also brought back memories of Durga Puja celebrations nearly four decades ago, when community gatherings, music and performances were an integral part of the festival. For many people, the renewed emphasis on traditional art forms, alongside environmentally conscious themes, offered a welcome change to the familiar celebrations.
