বাংলায় পড়ুন
In the year 2023, an extraordinary event unfolded in the heart of Kolkata during Durga Puja. A collaborative effort between several organisations, including NIP NGO, Saini International School, Mamata Sumit Banani Foundation, and the Rotary Club of Kolkata Old City, brought forth a special puja known as 'Anya Durga,' specifically designed to provide a convenient environment for visually impaired and differently-abled individuals to experience the grandeur of the festival.
This initiative saw the participation of three hundred Durga Puja committees, all coming together to make it a reality. Their collective vision was to make Durga Puja truly inclusive, ensuring that even those with visual impairments and disabilities could partake in the festivities.
The idea of 'Anya Durga' was first introduced at Hazra Park Pujo, and it gained tremendous attention. Distinguished guests such as Shobhandeb Chattopadhyay, the Minister of Agriculture; Sayan Deb Chattopadhyay, the joint editor of the Hazra Park Durgotsav Committee; Tapon Pattanayak, CEO of Saini Group; and Mamata Banani herself graced the occasion. Notably, the event also saw the presence of Juwel Choudhury, President of the MSME Development Forum (P.B.), Debjyoti Ray, President of the Rotary Club of Kolkata Old City, and several other prominent personalities.
Mamata Banani, the driving force behind this initiative, expressed her thoughts, saying, "We envisioned 'Anya Durga' as a conscientious awareness campaign. Inclusivity is a unique capability, and we must integrate this special ability into the mainstream. We believe that the right moment to do this is when we worship the goddess of power. It signifies the auspiciousness of our endeavour."
In conclusion, the 2023 Durga Puja in Kolkata witnessed the birth of 'Anya Durga,' a remarkable initiative that reminds us all of the significance of inclusivity and the power of unity. This collaborative effort, embracing diversity, truly captures the spirit of Durga Puja, making it more accessible and meaningful for everyone, regardless of their abilities.
