Siliguri gears up for colourful carnival

After the city witnessed a peaceful Durga Puja, the Siliguri Municipal Corporation (SMC) is now preparing for the much-awaited Carnival, to be held after the immersion of Durga idols and other deities in the Mahananda and other rivers today.

Mayor Goutam Deb, speaking to reporters, expressed satisfaction over the smooth conduct of the festivities. “Durga Puja in Siliguri was celebrated peacefully. Rain started from Navami, but despite the showers, thousands of people visited the pandals, many of which drew crowds with their dazzling decorations, creative lighting, and impressive theme-based presentations,” the mayor said.

Advertisement

Among the highlights this year was the contribution of Mitra Sammilani, one of the oldest clubs in the region. Marking its 99th year of Durga Puja, the club reminded people that the next year will be a milestone — its centenary celebration. For decades, Mitra Sammilani has been closely associated with the cultural life of Siliguri, and its Puja continues to draw admiration.

Adding a unique dimension to the festive season, the Prajapati Brahmakumaris Ishwariya Vishwavidyalaya, located on Bardhaman Road, staged a living tableau of Goddess Durga. For three days from 29 September, students, teachers, and members of the organisation presented depictions of Durga, along with Lakshmi, Saraswati, Kartik, and other deities, accompanied by spiritually themed cultural programmes. The event drew devotees who found the portrayal both divine and captivating.

Meanwhile, preparations for the Carnival have been hampered by persistent rainfall. “We are facing difficulties in organising the Carnival because of the rain. Our artists were upset when they could not complete the traditional alpona (drawings) on the roads. Still, we are working despite the obstacles,” mayor Deb said after inspecting the venue.

This year, a total of 12 clubs will participate in the Carnival, showcasing performances based on diverse themes. The state’s information and cultural affairs (I&CA) department will also take part, with folk artists from both the plains and the hills presenting their cultural heritage. Performers representing different communities are set to showcase their traditional dances, adding vibrancy to the event.

The mayor noted that departments such as police, PWD, electricity, fire services, civil defence, NCC, and others have extended full cooperation to ensure the success of the Carnival. To help manage the large turnout, LED screens have been installed at key locations across Siliguri, enabling people to enjoy the live telecast of the Carnival without crowding the Air View More point, the heart of the celebrations.