Durga Puja 2023: Spreading Awareness Against Ragging
As Durga Puja approaches, Kolkata’s festival committees and pandals are taking a bold stance against a pressing issue: ragging in educational institutions. This year, their creative themes aim not only to captivate visitors but also to send a powerful social message about eradicating the menace of ragging.
The Significance of Durga Puja in Bengal
Durga Puja stands as the most prominent festival in the Bengali community, adorning Kolkata and West Bengal with vibrant lights and joyous celebrations. Each year, Durga Puja pandals showcase unique themes, not only to attract visitors but also to raise awareness about critical social issues. In 2023, the spotlight is on ragging.
Why Choose Ragging as a Theme?
The tragic incident that unfolded in August 2023 shook Kolkata and the entire state of Bengal. Swapnadip Kundu, a first-year student at Jadavpur University, lost his life due to alleged ragging that lasted for approximately two harrowing hours. This horrific incident laid bare the severity of ragging and the urgent need to eliminate it from educational institutions to safeguard students.
According to law enforcement, Swapnadip was subjected to torture by senior students within the hostel premises. He was ultimately thrown from the hostel building in front of the A2 Block within the Main Hostel campus of Jadavpur University. This tragic incident has prompted several Durga Puja communities to adopt the theme of ragging, seeking the blessing and guidance of Maa Durga in their mission.
Pandals Embracing the Anti-Ragging Theme
One notable example comes from south Kolkata, where Naktala Udayan Sangha has chosen to base its pandal’s theme on the perils of ragging and how it can be eradicated from society. Reports suggest that they are committed to spreading the message of eradicating ragging and bullying from all educational institutions.
Crucially, an umbrella association representing Durga Puja committees has urged its members to display anti-ragging posters in their pandals during the October festival. These posters will emphasize why ragging is wrong and prominently feature the state government’s helpline number (1800-345-5678) dedicated to addressing ragging incidents.
Prominent Durga Puja associations, including Hatibagan Sarbojanin, Kashi Bose Lane Durga Puja Samity, Samaj Sebi Sangha on Lake View Road, and Mudiali Club, are all joining in this collective effort. They will feature anti-ragging posters, kiosks, and audio-visual presentations showcasing the detrimental effects of ragging. Moreover, these posters will reassure complainants that their identities will remain confidential.
FAQs:
Q1: What is the significance of Durga Puja in Bengal?
A1: Durga Puja is the most prominent festival in the Bengali community, celebrated with vibrant lights and festivities throughout Kolkata and West Bengal.
Q2: Why has ragging become a theme for Durga Puja pandals this year?
A2: A tragic incident in August 2023, involving the death of a student due to alleged ragging, has prompted the adoption of ragging as a theme to raise awareness and combat the issue.
Q3: How are Durga Puja pandals spreading awareness against ragging?
A3: Pandal themes, anti-ragging posters, kiosks, and audio-visual presentations are being used to educate the public about the harmful effects of ragging and encourage reporting while maintaining complainant anonymity.
