From Anandmath to Soldier Bravery at Durga Puja Pandal in Sodpur

Asansol. Sodpur town in North 24 Parganas district. Inside the Durga Puja pandal, the history of the freedom struggle from 'Anandmath' and stories of contemporary Indian soldiers' bravery are on display. At the very top of the mandap stands a 35-feet-tall statue of Bharat Mata. This scene will be witnessed at the Bijpur Sarbojanin Durgutsav in HB Town, Sodpur, celebrating the 150th anniversary of 'Vande Mataram'. The theme for its 77th edition is 'Bharat Bhagya Vidhata'. To commemorate the 150th anniversary of Bankim Chandra Chatterjee's 'Anandmath' and 'Vande Mataram', a pandap of approximately 10,000 square feet has been constructed. The pavilion will depict the history of 'Vande Mataram', the significance of Bharat Mata, and the story of 'Anandmath' in three stages. The theme will be 'As Bharat Mata was, as Bharat Mata is, as Bharat Mata will be'. It will feature characters like Bhabananda, Debi Chaudhurani, and Chirag Ali. Different chapters of the freedom struggle will also come to light, from the Sannyasi-Fakir rebellion to the Swadeshi movement. From the pages of history to modern India, valor from both eras has been incorporated into the theme. Organizers will highlight stories of the Pulwama and Mumbai attacks, the supreme sacrifice of Major Sandeep Unnikrishnan, the Uri surgical strike, and the bravery of Abhinandan Varthaman. Key puja officials include BJP leader Joy Saha. Contrasting with the modern presentation of the theme, the idol is traditional. The pandap construction is handled by Partha Maity, idol making by Kalachand Rudraapal, and lighting by Pritam Sengupta. The lighting arrangement will also portray stories of freedom fighters' bravery. In accordance with the theme, Ravana Dahan will take place on Vijayadashami. CCTV, volunteers, and drones if necessary will be utilized. Additionally, 24-hour health services, cloth donations, drawing competitions, and receptions for promising students are being organized.