On the eve of Mahalaya, Kolkata witnessed a heartfelt celebration of culture and devotion at a special Poetry Exhibition dedicated to the divine Mata Durga. Held at the Abanindranath Art Gallery under the aegis of the Indian Council for Cultural Relations (ICCR), the event beautifully marked the sacred period of Devipaksha, welcoming Maa Durga’s arrival with words of devotion and artistic expression.
The evening brought together nearly 500 attendees including literary enthusiasts, art admirers, spiritual seekers, and cultural luminaries from Kolkata’s vibrant artistic community. The gallery echoed with verses that evoked reverence, faith, and a deep emotional connection to the spirit of Durga Puja.
Spotlight on Poet Sudip Chandra Halder
One of the key highlights of this exhibition was the stirring work of Sudip Chandra Halder, a poet and researcher whose compositions centered on Mata Durga received widespread acclaim. His poems, known for blending devotion with literary finesse, resonated deeply with the audience.
In a brief, poignant address, Halder reflected on the occasion, saying, “The Earth stands ready to welcome the Divine Mother. The world awaits Her material appearance, and a festive energy pervades all corners of life. At such a sacred time, a poetry exhibition like this becomes profoundly meaningful.” His words echoed the spiritual atmosphere and the cultural significance of Devipaksha.
A Celebration of Culture, Faith, and Literary Excellence
This exhibition was more than just a showcase of poetic artistry—it was a spiritual homage that preceded the grand festivities of Durga Puja. Every poem, canvass, and exhibit in the gallery intertwined literature, faith, and Bengal’s cultural heritage, creating a rich, immersive experience for all attendees.
The event also featured musical tributes by renowned artists Shri Dheeraj Yadav and Shri Anand Mohan, adding an emotive layer to the celebration and stirring the hearts of the audience.
Resonating with Kolkata’s Cultural Spirit
The positive response to the exhibition reflected Kolkata’s timeless love for poetry and its deep cultural roots in spiritual and festive traditions. Esteemed guests including scholars, artists, and leaders underscored the enduring power of poetry to unite people, evoke devotion, and celebrate identity.
Conclusion: Poetry as a Bridge to Devotion and Identity
Sudip Chandra Halder’s participation in this Mata Durga tribute reaffirmed his stature as a profound poetic voice in contemporary Bengali literature. His work, steeped in devotion and literary excellence, enriched a cultural event that beautifully bridged spiritual faith with artistic expression.
Such exhibitions highlight how poetry continues to be a powerful medium connecting communities with their heritage and inspiring new generations to cherish and celebrate their cultural identity.
