Durga Puja is more than just a festival in Kolkata; it is an emotion, a time when the city comes alive with vibrant 
colors, devotional fervor, and artistic grandeur. Each Puja pandal has its unique story to tell, woven through its themes and decorations. Dum Dum Park Tarun Sangha Durga Puja, one of the most renowned pandals in Kolkata, never fails to capture the attention of devotees and visitors alike with its thought-provoking themes and stunning artistry. For 2023, the theme is ‘Samparka,’ meaning connection or bond, which highlights the relationships that hold society together and explores the deeper connections that unite individuals, families, and communities.
The Dum Dum Park Tarun Sangha Durga Puja Committee, known for its creative brilliance, has once again brought forth a theme that resonates deeply with the present times. As the world continues to navigate complexities brought on by social, political, and environmental challenges, ‘Samparka’ offers a reminder of the essential bonds that sustain us all. This year’s pandal aims to evoke feelings of unity and connection, encouraging visitors to reflect on their relationships with themselves, their communities, and the world at large.
The Concept of ‘Samparka’ – Connection at Every Level
‘Samparka’ is a multifaceted concept. On the surface, it refers to the interpersonal bonds that link individuals—familial relationships, friendships, and community ties. However, on a deeper level, ‘Samparka’ also refers to the spiritual connections that link humans to the divine, to nature, and to each other in an interconnected web of life.
In today’s fast-paced, digital world, where communication is often instantaneous but true connection is fleeting, the theme ‘Samparka’ serves as a timely reminder of the importance of nurturing authentic relationships. Dum Dum Park Tarun Sangha’s 2023 Durga Puja will explore these different layers of connection, using art, sculpture, and symbolism to represent the ties that bind us.
Visitors to this year’s pandal can expect a sensory journey that touches upon the many forms of ‘Samparka’—from the simple bond between mother and child, embodied in the depiction of Goddess Durga and her children, to the broader connections that exist between humans and the natural world. The theme will also highlight the invisible bonds that unite societies, cultures, and nations, emphasizing the idea that despite our differences, we are all connected at a fundamental level.
The Pandal: A Visual Journey Through Connection
The Dum Dum Park Tarun Sangha pandal for 2023 will be nothing short of a visual masterpiece. Each year, the committee and its team of artists, craftsmen, and designers outdo themselves in creating a pandal that not only
amazes the eye but also touches the heart and mind. This year, the theme ‘Samparka’ will be brought to life through an intricate design that represents various forms of connection.
The entrance to the pandal will immediately set the tone, with symbolic representations of intertwined threads, ropes, and chains—each one signifying a different kind of bond. As visitors walk through the pandal, they will encounter scenes depicting the connections between people, such as family units, community gatherings, and friendships. The use of eco-friendly materials will once again emphasize the connection between humans and the environment, underscoring the importance of sustainability.
Nature will play a significant role in the visual storytelling of ‘Samparka.’ Trees, leaves, and other natural elements will be incorporated into the pandal’s structure, reminding visitors of humanity’s deep connection with the natural world. Dum Dum Park Tarun Sangha has always been known for its commitment to environmental consciousness, and this year’s pandal will continue that tradition by using biodegradable and recycled materials wherever possible.
The lighting design will also play a crucial role in creating an atmosphere of connection. Soft, ambient lighting will be used to highlight the intricate details of the pandal, while focused beams will draw attention to key elements that represent the theme. The overall effect will be one of warmth, inviting visitors to not only observe but also feel the connections being depicted.
The Idol: Goddess Durga as the Ultimate Connector
At the heart of the pandal will be the idol of Goddess Durga, the epitome of power, protection, and nurturing. This 
year, the idol will be crafted in a way that embodies the theme of ‘Samparka,’ with Goddess Durga portrayed as the central figure that connects the divine with the mortal, the protector of both individuals and the collective whole.
Artistically, the idol will depict Goddess Durga in a more approachable and nurturing form, emphasizing her role as a mother not just to her own children—Lakshmi, Saraswati, Kartik, and Ganesha—but to all of humanity. The relationships between the goddess and her children will be highlighted to represent the familial bond, one of the most fundamental forms of connection.
Moreover, the idol’s facial expressions and body language will convey a sense of serenity and inclusivity, symbolizing the idea that Durga is a mother to all and that her divine energy connects all beings. The lion, which accompanies the goddess, will also be depicted in a way that symbolizes protection and unity, reinforcing the theme of ‘Samparka’ by showing how even in the animal kingdom, bonds of loyalty and connection exist.
Rituals and Celebrations: Fostering Community Connection
Dum Dum Park Tarun Sangha Durga Puja has always been known for its vibrant and inclusive celebrations, and this year’s theme of ‘Samparka’ will be reflected in every aspect of the rituals and festivities. The Puja committee is committed to fostering a sense of unity among all participants, whether they are long-time residents of the community or first-time visitors.
The Puja will begin, as always, with the Bodhon ceremony, marking the invocation of Goddess Durga. The rituals will continue through the days of the festival, including Pushpanjali (flower offerings), Sandhi Puja (the worship of the goddess at the critical juncture between Ashtami and Navami), and the traditional Arati (lamp worship). However, this year, these rituals will be carried out with a focus on connection—between devotees, between the divine and human realms, and between tradition and modernity.
The traditional bhog, or offering of food to the goddess, will also take on a communal flavor, as the Puja committee plans to distribute the bhog to people from all walks of life, including underprivileged communities. This act of sharing food is a powerful expression of ‘Samparka,’ as it symbolizes the bonds of kindness, compassion, and unity that hold society together.
Cultural Programs: Celebrating Bonds Through Art
One of the key highlights of Dum Dum Park Tarun Sangha Durga Puja is its vibrant cultural programs, which draw large crowds from across the city. This year, the cultural events will align with the theme of ‘Samparka,’
showcasing performances that celebrate the bonds between different art forms, cultures, and generations.
Visitors can look forward to a range of performances, from classical Indian dance and music to contemporary fusion performances that blend traditional and modern elements. The theme of connection will be woven into each performance, whether it’s a dance recital that depicts the relationship between a guru and a disciple or a theatrical presentation that explores the bonds between different communities.
In addition to live performances, there will be art exhibitions, workshops, and interactive sessions that allow visitors to engage with the theme of ‘Samparka’ in creative ways. These cultural programs not only entertain but also serve as a platform for dialogue and exchange, fostering connections between artists and audiences.
Social and Environmental Responsibility: Strengthening Bonds with Nature
Dum Dum Park Tarun Sangha has always been at the forefront of using Durga Puja as a platform for social and environmental awareness. This year, the committee will use the theme of ‘Samparka’ to highlight the urgent need to reconnect with nature and adopt sustainable practices.
As part of their environmental initiative, the pandal will feature displays and workshops on eco-friendly practices, including waste segregation, recycling, and the importance of conserving water and energy. The use of biodegradable materials in the construction of the pandal and idol will serve as a powerful reminder of humanity’s bond with nature and the need to protect the planet for future generations.
In line with the theme of connection, the Puja committee will also engage with local schools, colleges, and NGOs to spread awareness about environmental issues. These collaborations will help strengthen the bond between the Puja organizers and the broader community, creating a ripple effect of positive change.
Conclusion: A Celebration of Connection in All Its Forms
Dum Dum Park Tarun Sangha Durga Puja 2023, with its theme of ‘Samparka,’ promises to be a celebration that not only dazzles the senses but also touches the soul. As Kolkata gears up for another grand Durga Puja, the message of ‘Samparka’ will resonate with all who visit this iconic pandal. In a world that often feels fragmented, Dum Dum Park Tarun Sangha offers a reminder that it is our connections—to each other, to nature, and to the divine—that make life meaningful.
This year’s Puja will be an invitation to reflect on these connections and to celebrate the bonds that unite us, reminding us that no matter how different we may seem, we are all part of the same intricate web of life. Through art, ritual, and community engagement, Dum Dum Park Tarun Sangha will once again create an experience that is not just about worship, but about coming together in the spirit of unity and shared humanity.
