Our Bureau
New York, NY
Durga Puja made its grand debut at Times Square in New York City this year. Organized by the Bengali Club of USA and the Hindu Community of New York, the beautifully decorated Durga Puja pandal in the heart of New York City, drew a large crowd of Indian-Americans and other devotees. This colorful and energetic display of Indian culture in a two-day celebration featured traditional rituals, cultural performances, and the vibrant atmosphere of traditional drums and incense.
Pallab Sarkar, the club’s member-secretary, who hails from Mymensingh in Bangladesh, said “Times Square is the capital of the world. We wanted to showcase our religious and cultural heritage before the global community.”
Dinesh Mojumder, the club president who came to the US 10 years before, said “This was the first puja to take place in Manhattan (the borough which houses Wall Street and Broadway). And we plan to continue the tradition,” he said. As per reports, more than 30 pujas are taking place in New York this year.
This historic event gave an opportunity to the Indian diaspora to feel and celebrate their cultural heritage in one of the world’s most iconic locations. Many visitors to the Durga Puja pandal at Times Square captured these special moments in videos and photos which have been widely shared on social media, showcasing the colorful and joyous festivities.
