In some schools of Hindu thought, sound is deemed to be eternal — once created, sound lives on as a part of the universe. Ragas in Indian classical music are regarded as one of the most refined forms of sound. To remind the common people about its importance, a Salt Lake Durga Puja association is decorating its pandal on the theme of Indian classical music and instruments.
The Salt Lake AG Block Sarbojonin Durga Puja is creating a three-part pandal based on Indian classical music. According to artist Sumi Majumdar, ragas are the Holy Grail of Indian classical music. “On the other hand, Ma Durga is the source of all energy. That’s why we decided to decorate the pandal with graphical and artistic representations of ragas,” said Majumdar.
Arnab Kundu, one of the puja organisers, said they wanted to do something unique in the 37th year of puja. “That’s the reason, we have been thinking of doing something on classical music,” said Kundu, adding that every year, they try to decorate their puja with something unconventional, Patachitra being the central theme last year.
According to the plan, there will be three parts of the pandal. The first part — the entrance — will have wave-like structures made of wood and fibre glass. Indian ragas will be shown in the form of letters. A statue of Shiva and Parvati is being made to adorn the second part. “Shiva being the oldest god of dance and music in India, this statue has a deeper meaning and supports the theme,” said Majumder. The wave-like structures would represent sound.
The idol of Ma Durga will occupy the third portion. The clay idol will not have the traditional Mahishashur Mardini look but will sport the look of Devi Saraswati, the goddess of wisdom and music. Parimal Pal is creating the idol. Kalyan Sen Barat has composed the theme music.
“In all these three parts, several abstract installations will be seen along with models of Indian classical music instruments. We are yet to decide how to light up the pandal,” said Majumdar.
Workers toil at the AG Block pandal