Ethnic committees to recreate the traditional Durga Puja magic in London
The traditional Durga Puja and Dussehra celebrated by Indians symbolises the victory of good over evil. It was inaugurated by Indian poet, philosopher and cultural ambassador Swami Vivekananda in 1901 and includes traditional pandals (temporary worship tents created by beautifully embroidered curtains, lights, lamps and colours), sweets, cultural activities and prayers.
The London Durga Puja Dussehra Committee is marking its 50th year of Durga Puja celebrations this year with special “golden jubilee” celebration. The traditional Indian festival will be celebrated between Saturday, October 20 and Wednesday, October 24 2012 at the Camden Centre, Bidborough Street, London WC1.
Also see pictures of Bollywood’s Bengali actress Bipasha Basu celebrating Durga Puja with her family in Kolkatta. |
The last day, October 24 will be marked by cultural programmes including various Indian dance forms such as Kathak, Odissi and Bharatnatyam between 6.30pm and 10.30pm.
Similarly, the South London Durga Puja Committee is holding its annual five-day Navratri celebration between Saturday and Wednesday at Chak 89 banquet hall in Mitcham. The puja will be a live event and will include artis, cultural programmes and an evening meal.
Both the committees are holding Kali Puja separately on Diwali day, Tuesday, November 13. The South London Durga Puja Committee’s Kali Puja will also feature a firework display.
In addition to London, the Durga Puja and Diwali Festival Committee of Yorkshire will also hold the traditional five-day Durga Puja celebration at the Leeds Hindu Mandir. In addition to the Kali Puja on Diwali day, the committee will also hold a special Lakshmi Puja on Sunday, October 28 between 6 and 8pm at the same venue.
Will you be celebrating Durga Puja and Dussehra in London, let us know how by writing to us at .
