BJ Block Salt Lake Durga Puja 2019 - Communist China Theme
The initiative to establish a closer cultural and commercial connection with Bengal led Communist China to sponsor the oldest community Durga Puja in Salt Lake. This sponsorship transformed the popular BJ Block Puja into a mini Chinatown, with funding provided by the Chinese consulate, also located in Salt Lake. This move signified a broader effort by the Chinese consulate to immerse itself in Kolkata's cultural scene, despite diplomatic tensions such as the Doklam standoff.
The Chinese consulate's involvement went beyond mere financial support. They not only fully sponsored the BJ Block Puja but also sent a team of artists and artisans to China for training in designs inspired by Chinese architecture. The team traveled to Kunming in Yunnan Province, where they collaborated with master craftsmen to incorporate Chinese art forms into the Puja's theme. The pandal, deity, and decorations, both inside and outside, were crafted to resemble Chinese architectural elements, with the pandal likely resembling a pagoda.
Visitors to the Puja were treated to a taste of Chinese culture, with performances such as Chinese flute music, dragon dances, and acrobatics. Artists were flown in from China to showcase these traditional arts in the ground adjacent to the pandal, enhancing the cultural experience for attendees.
Consul General Ma Zhanwu expressed the consulate's enthusiasm for participating in Kolkata's Durga Puja festivities, noting that the event transcended religious boundaries and brought communities together. He highlighted the consulate's efforts to integrate Chinese elements into the Puja, stating, "Last year, we gave away safety awards to the organizers who showcased immaculate safety preparedness inside their pandals. While last year we sent these organizers for a trip to China, this year we are likely to bring a slice of China to a Durga Puja pandal for everyone to enjoy."
Artists hailing from China graced the Puja's inauguration with their performances, while the Chinese Consul General in Kolkata, Ma Zhanwu, pleasantly surprised attendees with his display of 'Tai Chi' movements, accompanied by his wife Yang Li, who showcased her musical prowess with the 'Pipa' instrument.
The BJ Block Salt Lake Sarodatsav received its inauguration by the esteemed presence of West Bengal Governor Keshari Nath Tipathi, alongside Consul Generals from China and Myanmar. Notable local figures such as Mayor Sabyasachi Dutta of Bidhannagar, and Rajesh Doityopoti Mohashoi, head Purohit of Puri Temple, as well as Anindo Chattopadhyay, Councillor of ward 41, were also in attendance.
Consul General of China, Ma Zhanwu, took the opportunity to address the media during the event, emphasizing the significance of cultural and educational exchanges between the two nations.
The journey towards this collaborative celebration began in March when the organizing Puja committee reached out to the Consulate. Subsequently, five artists from West Bengal embarked on a training program in Yunnan province, China, facilitated by the Consulate, which also arranged sponsors for their trip and accommodations. Further enriching the cultural exchange, a contingent of 40 artists from China traveled to West Bengal to lend their support and participate in the festivities.
Organizers expressed optimism about the Puja's role in fostering people-to-people exchanges, foreseeing mutual cultural enrichment and cooperation between the two nations.
"This Puja serves as a platform to enhance bilateral relations, strengthen friendships, and facilitate cultural exchanges and cooperation," they remarked, highlighting its potential to deepen ties and promote understanding between the communities involved.
Zhanwu expressed his delight at the Consulate's collaboration with the BJ Block community Durga Puja in the satellite township of Salt Lake in Kolkata. He emphasized that China and India, working together, could significantly impact not only Asia but also the entire world. He highlighted the mutual desire of leaders from both nations to foster meaningful cultural and educational exchanges as a means to strengthen bilateral cooperation.
Highlighting the upcoming meeting between leaders towards the year-end to discuss further development in cultural, educational, and artistic exchanges, Ma Zhanwu, the Chinese consul general in Kolkata, underscored the importance of events like Durga Puja in enhancing friendship between nations.
" Such an even as tonight will be remembered and will contribute to the friendship, the economic and cultural exchanges and cooperation between two great nations.," Zhanwu remarked at the BJ Block Durga Puja venue before its inauguration.
The Puja marquee, designed to evoke the essence of China, features a 20-foot structure of a Chinese 'Hulu' (bottle gourd), symbolizing happiness and prosperity in China's Yunnan province, based on Chinese architectural themes.
“Around five Bengali artists went to China. They took pictures, videos and they did it all by themselves. Then they showed me the structures and I think they have done a wonderful job,” he said.
Pointing towards various elements within the marquee, Zhanwu explained that the red lanterns, paintings, dragons, and particularly the 'Hulu,' symbolize affluence, happiness, and prosperity for the Chinese people.
History of Communism and Violence in Bengal
It must be noted that during its 35-year tenure under the Communist Party of India (Marxist) (CPIM) regime, West Bengal underwent significant challenges across various sectors. This period was marked by serious violence, anarchy, and a noticeable decline in several key aspects of the state's development.
One of the most glaring consequences of this era was the loss of industrial prowess that West Bengal had once been known for. The state witnessed a process of deindustrialization, with many industries either shutting down or relocating due to unfavorable policies and an inhospitable business environment. This decline in industrial activity resulted in widespread unemployment and economic stagnation, affecting the livelihoods of countless individuals and families.
Moreover, the deteriorating law and order situation added to the woes of the state. Instances of violence, political unrest, and social unrest became alarmingly common, contributing to a sense of insecurity among the populace. The breakdown of law and order not only hindered economic progress but also eroded public trust in the administration's ability to maintain peace and stability.
The exodus of skilled professionals, commonly referred to as brain drain, further exacerbated the state's woes. Many talented individuals sought opportunities elsewhere, disillusioned by the lack of prospects and the prevailing atmosphere of uncertainty. This drain of human capital deprived West Bengal of valuable resources and expertise, impeding its prospects for growth and development.
Additionally, there was a noticeable decline in education standards during this period. The neglect of the education sector, coupled with political interference, resulted in a faltering education system that failed to provide quality learning opportunities for the youth. This regression in educational standards not only hampered individual aspirations but also hindered the state's overall progress and competitiveness. Overall, the era of Communist rule in West Bengal was characterized by a pervasive sense of lawlessness, economic stagnation, and social unrest.
Source:
- https://www.indiablooms.com/life-details/L/3983/india-china-cultural-tie-marks-this-year-s-bj-block-salt-lake-sarodatsav-in-kolkata.html
- https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/kolkata/communist-china-to-sponsor-durga-puja-this-year/articleshow/64338510.cms
- https://www.hindustantimes.com/india-news/india-china-together-will-make-difference-to-asia-chinese-envoy/story-aPSdeHyGtYtOkihXruFhRI.html
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