Lucknow: The rhythmic beats of dhaak and dhol, the chiming of kansar and a vibrant display of handwoven textiles set the tone for Durga Puja celebrations across Lucknow, where tradition found fresh expression through the city’s youth.From intricately draped sarees to contemporary Indo-Western ensembles, youngsters at several pandals blended devotion with style, turning the festive season into a celebration of culture, identity and community.At Mitro Sangho pandal, traditional Indian weaves took centre stage. Young women embraced textiles such as taant, Chanderi, Ajrakh, Bagru and leheriya, while men opted for silk kurtas and fusion wear. Alongside the fashion display, devotees participated in aarti, danced to the resonant beats of dhaak and immersed themselves in the festive spirit.“I wanted to create a modern yet traditional look,” said Aditi Chakrovarty, who paired an Ajrakh lehenga and Bengali-sleeved top with boots. Jonita Basu drew inspiration from actor Yami Gautam, styling a Bagru anarkali with statement chandbalis.The mix of traditional weaves, fusion styling and personalised accessories reflected the growing enthusiasm of youngsters for celebrating the festival in their own way. Aryaman Saha, dressed in a Jamdani-leheriya kurta with a Bagru dupatta and colourful braided hair threads, performed aarti while dancing to the dhaak and raising the traditional Ulookadhwani. Nearby, Abhinav Bindra stood out in a black Indo-Western ensemble accented with neon-coloured braids.“It is a matter of great pride that so many youngsters are coming forward to participate in the puja and fulfil their religious duties,” said Nitesh Tiwari, general secretary of the committee.Shashwat Durga Puja pandal emerged as a major attraction, drawing visitors with its replica of Kolkata’s iconic Dakshineswar temple dedicated to Goddess Kali. Devotees paused to admire the architecture, click photographs and soak in an ambience that many said evoked the feel of Bengal. “The beauty of the pandal makes you feel as if you have stepped into a sacred space in Bengal,” said devotee Sandhya.Fashion designer Jigyasa Mitra reflected the fusion trend visible at many pandals, pairing a traditional lal paar sada saree with a bohemian tank top. The festive experience was further enriched by a traditional bhog menu featuring khichdi, chorchori, payesh, bhaja and chutney.Meanwhile, La Touche Road Sangsad Samiti pandal recreated the grandeur of Kolkata’s historic bonedi bari. As devotees danced to the beats of dhaak and kansar, nostalgia mingled with celebration. “The beats of dhaak are therapeutic for me,” said Lavanya Banerjee. “The pandal gives us the feel of Kolkata. Even in Lucknow, we can experience its spirit,” said Neeta Mullick.
