JALPAIGURI: In the Baapara dominated by a minority, an unclear settlement along the Teesta River on the outskirts of Jalpaiguri, Durga Puja is always synonymous with emulated religious harmony.
This year’s hit pandemic is no exception.
‘Devipakha’ has arrived; Faizul Islam and his friends compete against time to complete preparations for a five-day celebration that will begin at Mahasashthi Monday.
Baapara Sarbajanin Durga Low Puja may not have the majesty of the city celebration of the high budget, but when it comes to service, this nearby knit community certainly steals the show.
From Pushpanjali to ‘Chandipath’, every ritual is done with maximum precision when dozens of Muslim families join their Hindu brothers and sisters to pray for peace and prosperity.
“We are a dominant Muslim environment, but we always organize puja durga like a big family.
In fact, it is the same for most festivals here,” said Faizul who is a joint President of Balara Sarbajanin Durga Puja Committee.
Priest Mrinal Kanti Chakraborty strongly agreed.
“Balapara is a smelting pot of trust, trust, emotion, and brotherhood.
I am proud to be part of Durga Puja here.
This place symbolizes our original India,” he said.
Asim Roy, Secretary with the Management Committee, stressed that a handful of Hindu families in the region would never be able to conduct a proactive Muslim-nonactive neighbor celebration.
“It warms your heart scallops when I see the religious lines run away.
We are a big family.” Also the joint secretary, Hazrat Ali summarizes their collective sentiments.
“When you say the word ‘ma’, it evokes the same feeling and the same devotion regardless of the tendency of your religion.
Divine mothers also do not distinguish between Hindu children.
He both loves them all,” he said.