As Durga Puja, the biggest religious festival of the Hindu community, approaches, artisans in Narayanganj are working tirelessly to complete the idol making ahead of the festival.
Their skilled hands are crafting beautiful idols of Durga, Lakshmi, Saraswati, Ganesh, Kartik, and the demon Mahishasur with materials like clay, straw, bamboo, and various paints.
A total of 213 Puja pandals have been set up in the district for the festival, which is scheduled to begin on October 9th, with the Maha Shasthi Puja, and end on October 13th, with Vijaya Dashami.
The auspicious Devi Paksha will commence with Mahalaya on October 2.
During a visit to several temples and pandals, including Deobhog Akhra, Palpara, Ukilpara, Sahapara, Amlapara, Noyamati, and Nitai Ganj’s Baladev Jiu Akhra, artisans were seen meticulously working on the idols, many of which are now in the painting and finishing stages.
Talking to the UNB correspondent, some artisans expressed their concern over the rising cost of materials of making idols.
Tarak Nath, an idol maker, said despite the increased workload, profits have decreased due to the higher prices of bamboo, straw, and other necessary items. “Last year, the budget for idols ranged from Tk 30,000 to Tk 40,000 but this year, it has significantly reduced. Despite this, artisans continue their profession, even though they are not receiving fair price for their efforts.”
Artisans hoped to deliver the completed idols at least two days before the start of Durga Puja.
Narayanganj District Puja Celebration Council's General Secretary Shikhon Sarkar Shipon expressed satisfaction with the overall arrangements and said, “We are getting cooperation from all political parties, including BNP, Jamaat, Islami Andolon and Hefazat-e-Islam.
He said their own volunteers will be responsible for security at each temple and CCTV cameras will be installed at all pandals.
Superintendent of Police Pratyush Kumar Majumder said that enhanced security measures are in place to ensure peaceful celebration of Durga Puja. “Police, Ansar, RAB, and the army members will remain vigilant at all pandals, with plainclothes detectives also monitoring the areas.
He assured that the security arrangements this year are more extensive than in the previous years, aiming for a smooth and safe Durga Puja celebration.