Actor Raima Sen has returned to Kolkata for the Durga Puja celebrations after a two-year hiatus, and her excitement is palpable. As the festival unfolds during Navratri, Sen reflects on its profound emotional significance for Bengalis, stating, “It is more than just religious; Durga Puja has a strong emotional connect with Bengalis.”
The Emotional Essence of Durga Puja
Sen emphasizes the festival’s recognition by UNESCO, noting its global significance: “It has a lot of emotion and sentiment attached to it, and for Bengalis, it’s like our Christmas. It is also our pride.” This statement encapsulates the festival’s essence as a time of unity, joy, and cultural pride for the Bengali community.
In her view, Durga Puja is not just a religious observance but a celebration of the strength and resilience that women embody. “Maa Durga embodies everything that we as women embody—strength, power, patience, motherhood, and protection. She is in all of us; we all have that power in us. So, the festival is a celebration of womanhood as well,” she asserts. This perspective aligns with the growing acknowledgment of women’s roles in society and the importance of celebrating their strength and achievements.
Fond Memories and Nostalgic Celebrations
Recalling her childhood celebrations, Raima shares heartfelt memories of festivities at her grandmother’s house. “We’d bring the idol and decorate it, apply aalta, and have food on the floor in banana leaves with all our relatives getting together,” she reminisces. These cherished moments reflect the communal spirit of Durga Puja, where families unite to celebrate their culture and traditions.
Raima and her sister Riya Sen had a unique way of expressing their festive spirit. “We would dress up in sarees, go to our friends’ houses, and dance. Riya and I were very particular about what we were wearing, and we would make our mother buy us matching clothes. It was all about fun and the best time of the year,” she recalls with a smile. The joy and excitement of dressing up and celebrating with loved ones are integral to the Durga Puja experience.
As she prepares for this year’s festivities, Raima has chosen to wear her mother and grandmother’s sarees and jewelry, highlighting a deep connection to her roots. “It’s a way of honoring my family and celebrating our traditions,” she explains.
Impact of Recent Tragedies on Celebrations
However, this year’s celebrations are overshadowed by the recent tragedy of a doctor’s rape and murder, which has profoundly affected the community. “It’s a reminder of the struggles women face and the need for solidarity and support,” Raima reflects. Despite the dark cloud, the festival continues to serve as a platform for empowerment, unity, and hope for a better future.
In essence, Raima Sen’s reflections on Durga Puja offer a glimpse into the festival’s multifaceted nature—a blend of joy, nostalgia, and a poignant reminder of the challenges women face today. As she celebrates in Kolkata, her words resonate with many who see Durga Puja as a powerful symbol of strength, resilience, and the celebration of womanhood.