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0 commentsIn a historic first, Times Square, New York, was transformed into a vibrant celebration of Indian culture as the Indian-American community gathered to mark Durga Puja. The two-day event, held on October 5th and 6th, was organised by The Bengali Club of the USA and attracted scores of people, both from the diaspora and curious onlookers, eager to witness this landmark celebration.
Durga Puja, one of the most significant festivals in the Hindu calendar, is celebrated with grandeur across India, particularly in the eastern states of West Bengal, Bihar, and Odisha. This year, however, the festival found an unprecedented stage at the heart of one of the world's most iconic locations—Times Square. The event included a portable pandal, a live band performance, and traditional rituals, all set against the backdrop of the square’s towering billboards and flashing lights.
One of the most talked-about moments of the festival was a video that went viral on social media. In the footage, a singer can be seen performing the popular Bengali song *Dhak Baja Kashor Baja* as a crowd of people dressed in colourful traditional attire dance around the idol of Goddess Durga. Social media was flooded with clips of the celebration, including a mesmerising performance of the *Dhunuchi* dance, a traditional Bengali dance involving incense burners.
An Instagram influencer, Ruchika Jain, shared a video of the festivities, inviting Indian-Americans to join in the celebration. "History has been scripted!!! For the 1st time, Durga Puja was organised at the centre of Times Square, New York City," read one post from X (formerly Twitter) user @MeghUpdates.
The event sparked an outpouring of pride on social media. "It is a proud moment for all Indians to see India’s culture and civilization being respected across the world," one user commented. Others echoed similar sentiments, with one writing, "Bringing Durga Puja to Times Square is a beautiful way to celebrate and share culture on such a global stage. History indeed!"
For many, this celebration signified more than just a cultural milestone; it represented the growing recognition and respect for India's diverse traditions in global cities like New York. With Times Square as its setting, Durga Puja reached an audience beyond the Indian diaspora, capturing the attention of tourists and passersby who stopped to admire the stunning visuals and lively music.
History has been Scripted !!!
For the 1st time, Durga puja was organized at the centre of Times Square, New York City, United States. pic.twitter.com/QpTRdVDsxn— Megh Updates 🚨™ (@MeghUpdates) October 7, 2024
The celebration was a reflection of the Indian diaspora’s deep connection to their roots, even while living thousands of miles away. It also highlighted the community's efforts to maintain their cultural traditions and share them with the world. As the lights of Times Square shone brightly on the decorated pandal, it was clear that this was a moment that would be remembered for years to come.
Durga Puja, which celebrates the victory of the Goddess Durga over the demon Mahishasura, symbolises the triumph of good over evil. In India, it is marked by large public celebrations, cultural performances, and community gatherings. In New York, the event managed to capture that same spirit, bringing together the Indian-American community and others in a joyous celebration of life, victory, and cultural heritage.
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