A mélange of cultures: How Waltair Kali Bari celebrates Durga Puja in Vizag

Visakhapatnam: Far away from West Bengal, Durga Puja festivities have kicked off in Visakhapatnam from today.

With the onset of Navaratri, the Waltair Kalibari Committee braces up for the festivities.

Waltair Kali Bari is a prominent temple in Visakhapatnam. Located near the Railway Station, it is dedicated to Goddess Kali. This temple holds great significance, especially for the Bengali community in the city, as it is modeled after the famous Dakshineswar Kali Temple of Kolkata.

For the Waltair Kalibari Committee, the celebrations officially commenced on Panchami which falls on October 8. Following Panchami, a series of cultural activities will unfold at the Kali Bari.

On Sasthi which falls on October 9, families will showcase their talent. The celebrations will continue with free Bhog Prasadam served to thousands, between 5,000 to 6,000 people daily during Saptami, Ashtami, and Navami (10-12 October).

History:

Waltair Kali Bari is known for its serene environment and spiritual ambiance. It celebrates important festivals like Durga Puja, Kali Puja, and Saraswati Puja with great devotion and enthusiasm, attracting a large number of devotees. The temple also serves as a cultural hub for the Bengali community in Visakhapatnam, hosting various cultural programs and religious ceremonies. The temple’s simplicity, combined with the grandeur of the festivals, makes it a cherished place for both worship and community bonding. The architectural style, like many Kali temples, emphasizes devotion and spirituality, with the presiding deity, Goddess Kali, being the focal point for prayers and rituals.

Speaking to NewsMeter Secretary of Waltair Kali Bari Committee Joydeb Chakraborty recalled how they started Durga Puja celebrations with the Bengali community and how it was expanded in the last 64 years.

"We have around 3-4 lakh Bengali families in Visakhapatnam, working in Railways, NTPC, Steel Plant and many other sectors. We have always followed the tradition to celebrate Durga Puja in Vizag which is our home. The best part is we have our relatives coming down from Kolkata to be part of the Navaratri celebrations," said Joydeb.

For Dipika, Dasara in Visakhapatnam is one of the most awaited days of the year. "I have been in the city for the last 5 years but not at least one year, I have missed being in Kolkata for Dasara. Celebrations at Kalibari make me feel like I'm in my hometown. This is the time when all families gather and share good things".

The area also has another two pandals set up every year by two departments of the East Coast Railway.

While Kalibari is by the Bengali community, the other two pandals are by the Telugu communities. Apart from the regular puja, they also do Kumkum Puja gathering ladies from the community.