Durga Puja is more than just a festival—it's an emotion. It’s the excitement of new clothes, the joy of seeing friends and family, and the bittersweet sadness when it all comes to an end.
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But for many, Durga Puja is not just about emotions. For them, this festival is their lifeline, their bread and butter, their annual jackpot.
Take the Dhakias, for example. These traditional drummers travel from far-off villages, carrying their beats and rhythms across states. For them, Puja season is the only time they get to show off their extraordinary drumming skills.
The sound of the dhak is the heartbeat of the festival, and without these talented performers, would Puja even feel like Puja?
Then there are the vendors who line the streets outside the pandals, selling everything from piping hot phuchkas to brightly colored toys.
While we’re all busy with the festivities, they’re busy sacrificing their own family time, braving the crowds just to make us smile.
That steaming plate of chow mein or that balloon in your child’s hand? A reminder of the hard work that sustains entire families for months to come.
And what about the artisans, workers, and designers who toil away for months to bring those awe-inspiring pandals to life?
We admire the intricate details of the structures, we take selfies, we post them online, but how often do we stop to think about the hands behind the magic? For them, Puja is not just a celebration—it’s their chance to showcase their craftsmanship and secure their livelihood.
Let’s not forget the silent warriors—the emergency and security personnel. While we’re out pandal hopping, they're keeping an eye on us, ensuring that the celebration goes smoothly. They miss out on their family celebrations so we can enjoy ours without a second thought.
So, this Durga Puja, as you immerse yourself in the celebration, spare a thought for those for whom this is more than just a festival.
Whether it's the beat of the dhak, the taste of street food, or the safety you feel as you roam the city, remember that behind every smile, every moment of joy, there’s someone working hard to make it happen.
Because for them, Durga Puja isn’t just an emotion—it’s life.
(The author is the IGP (Admin & STF), Assam. All views and opinions expressed in the article are the author's own)
