Prayagraj: The colours of Durga Puja and Dussehra in Prayagraj are extending beyond religious boundaries, with members of the Muslim community actively participating in celebrations, supporting puja committees and even contributing to the festivities. The city’s old neighbourhoods, where communities have lived alongside each other for generations, are once again showcasing its Ganga-Jamuni tehzeeb during the 2026 festive season.In Kareli, GTB Nagar Barwari’s Durga puja committee has designed the pandal around the theme of a bygone era, showcasing disappearing household objects, traditional ways of living and glimpses of India’s cultural heritage. The organisers said the idea is to familiarise the younger generation with objects, customs and lifestyles that are gradually fading amid rapid modernisation. Through the display, the committee has sought to recreate memories of the past and offer children, youngsters and elderly visitors an opportunity to connect with traditional life and preserve its cultural significance.The pandal is located opposite the house of businessman Mohammad Akram, who lives in the predominantly Muslim locality. Akram, along with his family and friends, visits the pandal every evening and contributes to the arrangements.“For us, respecting another community’s traditions does not diminish our own faith. Festivals become more meaningful when people participate together and respect each other’s beliefs,” said Akram.Akram has also been associated with the puja committee’s activities, honouring members with the ‘Shagun Gaurav Samman’. He and his friends have honoured artisans from Kolkata involved in the puja preparations with shields and shawls. He also presents awards during ‘Hathoda Barat of Chowk’ and ‘Muggdar Barat’ of Daraganj, traditional processions held before Holi.GTB Nagar Barwari president Pradeep Kumar Dutta said such participation had become an integral part of the locality’s festive culture. “Our celebrations are not limited by religion. The participation of neighbours from different communities strengthens social harmony and reflects Prayagraj’s traditional Ganga-Jamuni culture,” he said.Small businesses are also joining the celebrations. Mohammad Moin Uddin, who runs a tailoring shop in Dhoomanganj, offers a 20% discount to Bengali customers getting clothes stitched for Durga Puja. He and his family also visit different puja pandals during the four-day celebrations.
