Patna: Preparations for Durga Puja in Bihar’s capital are in full swing, with Patna’s Dak bungalow Chauraha once again emerging as the centre of attraction. The landmark pandal, known for its grandeur each year, is being constructed this time on the theme of the Brihadeshwara Temple of Thanjavur, Tamil Nadu.
Artisans from West Bengal have been at work for six months to shape the 80-foot-high and 55-foot-wide structure, according to Dr Purushottam Mishra, general secretary of the Navayuvak Sangh Shri Durga Puja Committee Trust. Around 18 artisans are involved in the project, which will feature about 250 idols of various deities.
The central idol of the goddess, to stand 20 feet tall, will be crafted from soil and water brought from Haridwar, Rishikesh, Prayagraj, Varanasi and Hooghly. Materials for the goddess’s adornment are being sourced from Naihati and Varanasi.
Lighting displays will also play a major role in this year’s celebrations. Four LED gates, each 57 feet tall and 35 feet wide, will line the stretch from Dak Bungalow to Kotwali. The gates will feature representations of the Char Dham pilgrimage sites, as well as depictions of the Jagannath Puri temple and a Chinese temple. Children’s stories such as the hare and the tortoise, the thirsty crow, the fox and the grapes, and a bear playing with its cub will also be brought to life through illuminated installations.
