Almost as soon as Durga Puja and Dussehra are over, preparations begin for Kali Puja and Diwali. It’s time to light up streets and homes, draw, draw rangolis, exchange gifts and sweets and spread joy. My Kolkata picks some memorable moments from this year’s Diwali and Kali Puja celebrations through Instagram reels.
Street art
The street near the famed ‘Fatakeshtor Kali pujo’ pandal turned into a magnificent canvas. The entire length of the road leading to the pandal was painted with folk art. Reels of the street art soon became viral and many content creators took drone shots to capture the magnificent artwork. Check out this reel by @shutter_humor
Bird’s-eye view of Kolkata on Diwali
Another reel that went viral during the past week showed the high towers of the city drenched in fairy lights. The illuminated skyline and occasional fireworks in the sky make for a visual treat indeed. While drone shots are always fascinating, this one by @deckle_edge looks magical and is a feast for the eyes. Check it out!
Mudragraphy x Ekbar Nacho Maa
Dancer Tithi Das created Mudragraphy where she uses her hands to express with the help of different mudras. This time @tithiiiiiiiiiiiii presented a beautiful mudra performance on the Shyamasangeet Ekbar Naacho Maa. Hands in black and red are gracefully moved with the song. The reel only features her hands but one can still feel every word of the song through the movements.
Dakshineswar temple illuminated for Kali Puja
Thousands of people visit the Dakshineswar Kali temple every year on Kali Puja to witness the rituals at midnight. The ambience of the temple is very different during this time. The entire temple is bathed in yellow lights making the structure glow. @iam_prabir_das got us an exclusive top view of the entire temple premises during Kali Puja and the illuminated temple looks mystical.
(@iam_prabir_das)Miniature goddess Kali
When we think of the idol of goddess Kali, we imagine a huge figurine defining female power and strength. But have you seen these small idols of the goddess? @pictures_que97 has captured adorable miniature Kali idols. These idols are a work of Bengal’s rich craftsmanship and each idol showcases great detailing.
Dev Diwali in Benaras
Dev Diwali or Dev Deepawali is celebrated every year in Benaras and thousands of devotees gather on the ghats of Ganga to witness the spectacular Ganga Arati. There are fireworks too that paint a festive mood in the skyline of the oldest inhabited city of India. Many people take boat rides to enjoy the view of the illuminated ghats. Check out Dev Deepawali this year in this reel by @deepakshuklaaa.