By TC News Desk
Agartala, 5th April 2024: As Basanti Puja approaches, the fervor among the devotees in Tripura is palpable, with an increasing number of clubs, social organizations, and households gearing up for the festivities. The capital city of Agartala, along with various parts of the state, is witnessing a surge in preparations for the revered Basanti Puja.
With only a few days remaining until the festivities begin, the pottery hub of Murti Para is bustling with activity as artisans work tirelessly to craft idols. Basanti Puja, celebrated during the Shukla Paksha of the Chaitra month, holds significant cultural importance as the original Bengali Durga Puja. Though the autumnal Durga Puja in Ashwin Shuklapaksha is renowned for its grandeur, Basanti Puja traces its origins back to the worship of Goddess Durga by King Suratha and Vaishya Samadhi during spring, as depicted in the Puranas.
The spirit of Basanti Puja transcends barriers of caste and religion, with people from all walks of life eagerly participating in the festivities. Like its autumnal counterpart, Basanti Puja entails the worship of Goddess Durga, albeit traditionally observed for fewer days.
In anticipation of the celebrations, artisans are diligently crafting idols in Murti Para. Despite a growing demand for idols, artisans lament the soaring prices of materials, which dent their profits. Consequently, the prices of idols have also escalated, posing a challenge for both artisans and buyers alike. Despite these hurdles, the demand for smaller idols has witnessed a significant surge this year, reflecting the enduring enthusiasm for Basanti Puja festivities.
