They are thousands of miles away from Kolkata due to work. However, when autumn comes, it is like a cloud in the corner of the mind. The mind goes back to that familiar city. The sound of the dhaka, the smell of shiuli, the lights and the memories of wandering from pandal to pandal still attract them equally. And to cover that wound, Durga Puja is organized abroad.
There is no deficiency in the joy of Puja even in the diaspora. UK Hindu Welfare Association's Durgo Festival is also exceptional in its grandeur. There is no splendor like Kolkata. But the home environment, sincerity and warmth of people is the biggest achievement. Goddess Aradhana, Anjali, cultural programs and spontaneous participation of all young and old made London a piece of Calcutta for a few days.
This effort to preserve our culture, tradition and roots in the midst of busy expatriate life is the real significance of Puja. Puja organizers claim, “I miss Calcutta puja very much. But standing on the ground of London, we can worship Maa Durga, this is our absolute fortune.” In their words, “I am away from the country, not from my mother.”