Silchar: High festive enthusiasm gripped Silchar and Udharbond as thousands of revellers visited illuminated pandals during Panchami and Shashthi.Silchar’s streets took on a vibrant look as puja committees decorated pandals, approach roads and entrance gates with colourful LED lights. The displays ranged from traditional themes to innovative artistic installations.The rush began on Panchami on Thursday and intensified on Shashthi on Friday, with families, youngsters and children visiting pandals across the town. Major roads saw a steady flow of pandal-hoppers, while roadside food stalls, eateries and temporary markets reported brisk business.Celebrations in Udharbond also drew large crowds. Visitors from adjoining villages joined residents at community pujas featuring decorated pandals and elaborate lighting.Prominent attractions included the pandals along Hospital Road and Kalibari Road in Udharbond. In Silchar, Devleena Club and Dakshin Bilpar Club drew attention for their thematic decorations. Puja venues in Madhyashahar, Tarapur, Sonai Road and Bilpar also saw heavy footfall.The Ramakrishna Mission’s traditional Durga Puja was another major attraction. Large gatherings are expected for Kumari Puja on Maha Ashtami.The festival also boosted local businesses. Shops selling garments, footwear, toys and festive accessories in Central Road, Gopalganj, Fatak Bazar and Janiganj saw increased activity.Police and the district administration stepped up security and traffic-management measures at major venues, including surveillance, crowd regulation and arrangements for the safety of women and children.With Saptami, Ashtami and Navami approaching, the festive rush is expected to grow across Silchar and the Barak Valley.
