The eye meets a flyover in the heart of a Naktala locality. No, it’s not a new project but the entrance to Naktala Udayan Sangha, the winner of the Best Innovative Puja 2024 award for Lalbaba Rice presents TTIS Choto Chokhe Boro Pujo powered by JIS Group and admissiontree.in.

This puja seemed to be the universal heart-throb of all the 40 student judges who accompanied actress Koneenica Banerjee on the event’s second day. Inside the pandal, Goddess Durga was holding an iron urn and upholding the essence of a joint family, as against nuclear families of modern times where food is more often delivered than cooked.

“I am surprised that the students chose this puja. Most children don’t even know what it is to grow up in a joint family or the fun part of that life. They deserve an award for their critical eye,” said the actress, who was full of stories of her growing up years at Bakul Bagan in Bhowanipore.

“Puja to us was clear skies, new dresses, theatre rehearsals, friends and so much fun,” said the actress, also a mother of a five-year-old girl.

Judges Araby Basu and Sinjini Chakraborti, both of Class VIII, had rooted for Naktala, too. “I am happy my favourite puja won in one of the five categories. I learnt so much about the effort that goes behind organising a theme puja,” said Araby, a student of Modern High School for Girls.

A more seasoned Sinjini, this is her third year with Choto Chokhe Boro Pujo, said sustainability is what makes a puja stand out. “All our winners scored because they used either environment-friendly or recycled materials,” said the student of Indus Valley World School.

Sanjoy Majumdar, the president of the puja committee at Thakurpukur State Bank Park Sarbojonin, said: “Our pandal is completely eco-friendly. We used iron, plywood and sunboard.” Their effort won them the Best Puja award.

This pandal led the visitors into the world of a child. The theme is about letting children let loose their creativity. Black and white artwork made the pandal look straight out of a child’s drawing book. Even Durga and her entourage are placed inside raths. The concept has been developed following the artwork of a nine-year-old girl, Samriddhi Das of Baranagar.

“This is how my daughter would have drawn,” said Koneenica, as she handed the award to the organisers.

Other award winners included Beliaghata No. 33 Pallibashi Brinda (Best Pandal), Behala Natun Dal (Best Idol) and Kankurgachi Mitali Sangha (Judges’ Choice).

“It’s great to be associated with the event,” said Bidyut Majumdar, general manager of the JIS Group.

Food partners Dipak De, founder and chairman and Debraj De, managing director of Shanghai Flavours of China Town, said to treat children and be part of their exciting childhood memories was always a pleasure for them.

Partha Sarathi and Palash Nandy, directors of Lalbaba Rice, also shared the joy. “We are happy to be associated with an event that helps kids evaluate and appreciate the nuances of art, integral to Durga Puja,” said Partha Sarathi.

On the final day, the student judges were hosted by Hyatt Regency for breakfast and lunch. “We believe that through this collaboration, we can nurture a sense of community and connection among children, ensuring that the joy of Durga Puja is experienced by everyone,” said Ishandeb Chatterjee, director, sales and marketing, Hyatt Regency, Calcutta.