Kolkata’s Durga Puja, known for its grand and creative thematic pandals, has once again captivated the public with a breathtaking display. The Chetla Agrani Club has unveiled a unique installation featuring a massive Shivalinga reportedly constructed using over three crore Rudraksha beads, making it one of the most distinctive pandals this festive season.
The club’s theme this year is “Amrit Kumbher Shondhane” (In Search of the Nectar), which is inspired by the mythological tale of Samudra Manthan (the Churning of the Ocean). The entire pandal is a dramatic depiction of this cosmic event, with the Rudraksha-adorned Shivalinga as its centerpiece, symbolizing Lord Shiva who consumed the poison (Halahala) that emerged during the churning.
A spokesperson for the Chetla Agrani Durga Puja Committee confirmed the effort, stating that the immense number of sacred Rudraksha beads were used to create the magnificent, towering replica of the divine lingam.
The dazzling display has already drawn massive crowds, with devotees and pandal-hoppers flocking to the venue to witness the intricate artistry and absorb the spiritual ambiance. The unique concept, blending religious narrative with such a grand scale of devotional materials, solidifies Kolkata’s reputation for pushing the boundaries of artistic expression during the annual Durga Puja festival.
The pandal not only pays homage to the ancient mythological text but also stands as a tribute to the spiritual heritage associated with the Rudraksha, a bead believed to be the tear of Lord Shiva. The Chetla Agrani Club, which is one of the city’s prominent pujas, is expected to be a major crowd-puller throughout the festival days.
