She was the youngest judge in 2019. Three years later Mahelika Chakraborty of Class IX is back and ready to judge Camellia presents TTIS Choto Chokhe Boro Pujo powered by Fridaay, Foodie Folks and Calcutta Retro on October 19 and 20.
Mahelika remembers being in Class V and being very nervous in 2019. But the puja committee members had made her feel so important as a judge.
“I realised how important was my job. This time I will look out for the younger students in my team,” says the student of Ashok Hall Girls’ Higher Secondary School, who has started going around the city and checking out different idols.
Mahelika is among the 40 students from various schools in the city who will judge around 50 Durga pujas, as part of TTIS Choto Chokhe Boro Pujo.
There will be awards for five categories — Best Puja, Best Idol, Best Pandal, Best Innovative Puja and Judges Choice. The young judges will shortlist the best five from among the 50.
On Day I, the children will be divided into 10-12 routes for the purpose.
“I like innovation blended with tradition. I would look out for a fusion of both,” said Mahelika.
Another young judge this year, Asmita Sarkar of Class XI, should get an award herself for enthusiasm. The resident of Bandel does not mind waking up early and coming to Kolkata for a round of pandal-hopping.
“I don’t get to come to Kolkata often during Durga Puja. But this year, thanks to this event, I am looking forward to two days of fun. I also have a friend joining me in the judging,” said the student of St Anthony’s School in Chandernagore. She plans to stay over at a relative’s place overnight to be on time for October 20.
The children will be joined by two young actors on the second day.
A chance to exchange notes with other students is also an added attraction for most of the young judges.
Debraj Mehta, a Class VI student at Abhinav Bharati High School, is looking forward to making new friends.
“What attracts me about a puja is the use of recycled materials and less wastage of resources. Of course, an innovative theme is an added draw but it must be environment friendly,” said the student, who is not at all nervous about his debut stint.
According to N.R. Datta, chairman of Camellia Group, the initiative of children judging Durga pujas is unique and effective.
“We are very happy to be associated with this event. Children will get to see some of the best idols. They are often more critical judges than the adults. I am sure they will have a wonderful time together, the very purpose of this event,” he said.