Gulshan-Banani puja foundation to host 18th Durga Utsab

The Gulshan-Banani Sarvajanin Puja Foundation (GBSPF) is set to celebrate its 18th Sharadiya Durga Utsab with five days of vibrant festivities, running from 28 September (Shashthi) to 2 October (Bijoya Dashami), bringing together devotion, culture, and community spirit.

Durga Utsab, the most significant religious and cultural festival, will include rituals, cultural programmes, and community gatherings from Mahashashthi to Mahadashami, such as Chandipath, Sandhi Puja, Aarti, Pushpanjali, music, and devotional competitions. There will also be cultural programmes for children and young people, including music, dance, recitation, and contests. Poetry, artistic stage design, and performances will further enrich the celebrations.

This year's pavilion, designed by architect Amity Kundu and artist Partha Pratim Saha, takes inspiration from the five elements of Vedic philosophy: earth, water, fire, air, and sky. Earth is represented through traditional chatai weaving, with patterns of dried grass, jute, reeds, and bamboo. Flowing water motifs are integrated into the structure, while tridents symbolising fire serve as visual highlights. Cotton clouds are suspended to blend into endless skies. The mandap showcases these elements, reviving rural artistry and connecting them to Bangladesh's heritage.

In keeping with GBSPF's values, the pavilion has been constructed from eco-friendly, biodegradable materials, including bamboo, straw, jute, clay, and cloth, all crafted by artisans from across the country.

JL Bhowmik, President of GBSPF, said: "Durga Puja unites our community in worship, tradition, and joy. For 18 years, this foundation has brought families together. This year, we welcome Maa Durga with renewed energy, hoping to strengthen bonds of peace and prosperity."

General Secretary Engr Ashim Kumar Joardar said: "Sharadiya Durgotsab is a festival of harmony and renewal. Our theme, 'In search of peace in transmission', invites compassion in a time of uncertainty."

The celebrations are supported by Dhaka South City Corporation, law enforcement agencies, the armed forces, and civil defence authorities. Ambassadors, dignitaries, and international guests are also expected to attend.

For nearly two decades, the foundation has organised one of Dhaka's most prominent Durga Puja celebrations, standing as a symbol of unity and shared heritage for Bangladesh's Hindu community and beyond.