In the rhythmic dance of tradition and innovation, Durga Puja in Calcutta reveals its enchanting allure. From the vivacious preparations leading up to the festivities to the kaleidoscope of colours adorning the city, this is a celebration where life itself takes on an artistic form. As the anticipation swells, the streets of Calcutta awaken with the footsteps of eager shoppers, embracing the tradition of adorning oneself in new attire and exquisite ornaments. The city pulsates with electric energy.
MAKE Mindful Culinary Choices
Yet, amid this visual and spiritual spectacle, there’s another narrative gaining momentum — a mindful approach to indulgence. Calcutta’s streets, a gastronomic wonderland, beckon with crispy chops, fragrant luchis, savoury kachoris, and rolls that tantalise the senses. And let’s not forget the joyous burst of flavours in those beloved phuchkas.
But amidst this delicious frenzy, a subtle shift is occurring — a call to embrace tastier, healthier, food options — gluten-free, minimally processed foods, not deep fried, low in processed sugar, etc.
Awareness whispers of the health-conscious, encouraging us to tread lightly when it comes to overprocessed and gluten-containing foods. Also, let us not forget the wisdom that has been passed down through generations. Refraining from overexposing ourselves to oils refried repeatedly is an act of self-preservation. It’s a choice that safeguards our well-being as we celebrate the vibrancy of Durga Puja.
Thankfully, Calcutta’s culinary landscape is evolving in harmony with this mindful approach. Cafes and eateries are now serving healthier gluten-free dishes that stand shoulder to shoulder with their gluten-rich counterparts, embracing dietary preferences without sacrificing flavour.
As we honour tradition and innovation in equal measure, let us remember that gluten can be gracefully replaced with gluten-free options, inviting all to partake in the feast. Let us also be mindful of ensuring adequate protein in our diet, a cornerstone of good health.
Hydrate SMARTly
Calcutta’s tropical climate casts a warm, humid embrace upon the city during Durga Puja. As you navigate the bustling streets and wait in line to witness the splendid pandals, it’s essential to stay hydrated. Dehydration can quickly sap your energy and dampen the festive spirit.
Amidst the temptation of flavoured sugary drinks, cold coffees, and ice creams, make mindful choices that honour your well-being. Opt for refreshing options like nimbu pani — zesty lemon water, lightly salted to replenish essential electrolytes. Coconut water, a tropical treasure, offers natural hydration with a hint of sweetness, while infused waters and lemon water provide nourishment without excess sugar.
BUILD Exercise into THE Celebrations
While festive times can disrupt regular exercise routines, Durga Puja offers unique opportunities to stay active. Calcutta’s vibrant streets, adorned with art and alpana patterns, become your playground. Opt to walk instead of using a car to explore the city, allowing your steps to become a joyful dance through the celebration. Wear comfortable shoes that can help you tread the streets in comfort.
The dhaak (traditional drum) and the captivating garba programs, the dhunuchi dance, all infuse physical activity into the festivities. These performances beckon you to embrace the spirit of dance, infusing your steps with vitality and joy.
Smartwatches, worn as wrist companions, not only tell time but also track your physical activity, including step counts. As you partake in the energetic garba programs and traverse the lively streets, your smartwatch silently encourages you to celebrate movement and well-being.
Remember that every step you take, every dance move you make, is a celebration of physical activity.
Sleep: A Sacred Pause
In the exuberant spirit of Durga Puja, it’s easy to become enthralled by the festivities and overlook the importance of sleep. Revelling in the exhilaration of Durga Puja can be all-consuming, tempting you to stay awake, and revelling in the joyous atmosphere. It’s easy to forget that rest is the cornerstone of vitality.
Sleep is the sacred pause that renews your spirit and rejuvenates your body. It’s the sanctuary where your dreams take flight, and your energy is replenished. To fully savour the festivities and the vibrant culture of Calcutta, it’s crucial to honour your body’s need for rest.
By being mindful of your sleep, you ensure that once the celebrations conclude, you don’t emerge exhausted but invigorated — full of life and energy to rejoin your work and daily routine. This isn’t just about physical rest, it’s also about nurturing your mental and emotional well-being. As you honour your need for sleep, you’ll emerge from the festive season not depleted, but as a beacon of vitality and enthusiasm.
Meditation: Inner Serenity
Amidst the vibrant celebrations of Durga Puja, there’s a profound opportunity to delve deeper into the essence of well-being — a journey within, into the realm of meditation.
Meditation serves as a bridge to the inner sanctum of your being, allowing you to connect with the divine presence within you, much like Goddess Durga’s return to her maternal home. It’s a practice that invites you to listen to the whispers of your soul and uncover the true purpose of your existence.
As you sit in quiet contemplation, meditation offers a retreat from the external world. It quiets the noise of everyday thoughts, unveiling a tranquil canvas where your true nature is revealed. Meditation makes you more mindful, present, and attuned to the moment. It’s an elixir that energises your body, infusing it with a vibrant life force.
During Durga Puja, amidst the revelry and festivities, take moments of quietude to engage in meditation. Find a serene corner where you can sit in stillness, allowing the external commotion to fade into the background. As you close your eyes and turn your gaze inward, you embark on a journey to your innermost self.
Balance festivities and Well-Being
In the vibrant tapestry of Durga Puja, where tradition and innovation intertwine seamlessly, a holistic approach to well-being enriches the celebration. As we immerse ourselves in the grandeur of this auspicious festival, it’s essential to consider how our choices impact our overall health and spiritual connection.
In the holistic celebration of Durga Puja, we blend tradition and modernity, external revelry and inner reflection, vibrant culture and personal well-being. Through mindful choices, we emerge from the festivities not just invigorated but spiritually enriched — a testament to the profound interplay between tradition and holistic well-being during this auspicious season.
Warm wishes for a joyful and healthy Durga Puja!
Puja Karnani Agarwal is a functional medicine practitioner, certified human performance nutritionist, and a REPS-certified Level-4 trainer. She consults at Reverra Aesthetics, 15C Hazra Road; phone: 9830038646. She is also on Instagram
@pujakarnaniagarwalofficial and her website is pujakarnaniagarwal.com