বাংলায় পড়ুন
In 1994, when she first adorned the divine avatar of Goddess Durga on Indian television's Mahalaya programme, Sanjukta Banerjee captured the hearts of millions. The simplicity and sheer devotion in her portrayal made her an eternal favorite. The iconic Durga from the Doordarshan era is still a cherished memory for Bengalis.
Sanjukta Banerjee, a gifted dancer, became synonymous with the role of Mahishasuramardini on Doordarshan. Her exceptional dance skills and divine presence left an indelible mark on the audience. Even today, she remains the epitome of Durga's grace.
Sangita's journey into this revered role began during her college days in 1994. She was a first-year student at Shri Shikshayatan College when she was chosen to play the role of Durga on Doordarshan's Mahalaya program. Little did she know that this divine role would become her life's calling.
Over the years, Sanjukta honed her dance skills, specialising in various forms like Loknritya, Kathak, and finally, Bharatanatyam. Her passion for dance was nurtured during her early years, influenced by her parents, who introduced her to Yamin Krishnamurthy's dance performances. That's when she decided to dedicate herself to Bharatanatyam.
Her dedication was unwavering, even during her rigorous training. She underwent intensive training in Bharatanatyam, Mohiniattam, and Kathak under the guidance of eminent gurus. Her life revolved around dance, and she even observed strict dietary regimes to maintain her physical form.
Sangita's expertise in dance paved the way for her to play the role of Durga on the Mahalaya program. Her association with Doordarshan's 'Kothay Kothay' added to her fame, but it was her portrayal of Durga that etched her name in history. She understood the intricacies of the character, especially the battles with Mahishasura, and delivered her performance with grace and precision.
After years of enriching her skills, Sanjukta embarked on a new phase of life. She settled in the United States, residing in various cities and in Canada's Toronto. Even there, she continued her research in dance, gave performances, and imparted her knowledge to others. Despite the physical distance, her passion for dance remained undiminished.
Today, during the festive season of Sharodotsav or elsewhere, people still yearn to see Sanjukta Banerjee as the ten-armed Durga. She may have stepped away from the entertainment world, but her love for dance endures. Dance is her life's companion, an unwavering devotion that has defined her from the very beginning. Sanjukta Banerjee is not just a name but a symbol of devotion and dedication that resonates with every Bengali heart.
