The Baguiati Rail Pukur United Club inaugurated its 72nd Durga Puja celebrations today, unveiling the thought-provoking theme, “Shabdo” (The Sound). The pandal was virtually inaugurated by West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee.
This year’s theme focuses on the disappearing sounds of nature- bird calls, rustling leaves, and the harmonious rhythms of life- gradually being drowned out by urbanization. The highlight of the pandal is a 20-feet artistic bird installation, symbolizing the grandeur of nature and drawing attention to the silence caused by declining avian populations.
Visitors are treated to an immersive experience with dynamic soundscapes and mime performances by Shubhendu Mukhopadhyay and Kaushik Biswas, giving voice to the silent cries of birds and prompting reflection on ecological responsibility.
Speaking on the occasion, Gourab Biswas, Committee Member of Baguiati Rail Pukur United Club, said, “Shabdo is more than an artistic marvel- it is a wake-up call. The sounds of birds and nature are fading fast. Through this creation, we hope to inspire action before silence becomes the only sound left for future generations.”
The creative team behind Shabdo includes Somnath Tamli (theme conceptualization and design), Debprasad Hazra (Durga idol sculpture), Dipankar Dey (light and shadow direction), and Bapi Das (pandal construction). Additional contributions come from Samiran Jana (cinematography and editing), Poulami Bose (research), Faruk Shaikh (drawing and design), and Debayan Banerjee (sound and music).
With its unique combination of artistry and environmental messaging, the Shabdo pandal stands as a powerful reminder to preserve the natural sounds of life before they vanish entirely, making this Durga Puja both a cultural and ecological statement.
