Kolkata : The Baguiati Rail Pukur United Club kicked off its 72nd Durga Puja celebrations today, unveiling an intriguing theme titled “Shabdo” (The Sound). The pandal was ceremoniously inaugurated by the Hon’ble Chief Minister of West Bengal, Mamata Banerjee.
This year’s theme, “Shabdo,” invites attendees on an evocative exploration of the diminishing sounds of nature—such as bird calls, the rustling of leaves, and the harmonious rhythms of life that once characterized our environment but are now being overshadowed by relentless urbanization. The centerpiece of this year’s pandal is a stunning 20-foot artistic bird installation, symbolizing both the majesty of nature and the concerning silence resulting from the decline of avian life. The immersive experience is further enriched by dynamic soundscapes and compelling mime performances by Shubhendu Mukhopadhyay and Kaushik Biswas, which give voice to the silent cries of birds and encourage visitors to contemplate their ecological responsibilities.
Speaking on the occasion, Mr. Gourab Biswas, Committee Member of Baguiati Railpukur United Club, said, “Our theme Shabdo is more than an artistic marvel—it is a wake-up call. The sounds of birds and nature, once inseparable from our daily lives, are fading fast. Through this creation, we hope to inspire action before silence becomes the only sound left for future generations.”
The creative brilliance behind Shabdo comes from a dedicated team of artists and designers: Somnath Tamli conceptualised and designed the theme, Debprasad Hazra sculpted the stunning Durga idol, Dipankar Dey directed the intricate play of light and shadow, and Bapi Das led the construction of the majestic pandal. Complementing their vision are Samiran Jana (cinematography and editing), Poulami Bose (research), Faruk Shaikh (drawing and design), and Debayan Banerjee (sound and music).
With the Chief Minister’s virtual inauguration, the Shabdo event at Baguiati Rail Pukur United Club emerges not merely as a festive celebration but as a poignant reminder to protect the natural sounds of life before they fade away forever.