Keep harmony intact; curb religious control

Mother came home, and she will leave tomorrow. Today is Bijoya Dashami, and tomorrow is the immersion. The ceremonial worship of Durga Puja has concluded with the immersion rituals at temples and pandals. This year, due to the coincidence of the ninth and tenth days, the main festivities of Durga Puja have ended on the same day. Hence, from this afternoon (October 12), the farewell melodies will resonate throughout the pandals.

From the very beginning, there was a sense of anxiety among the Hindu community regarding this year’s Durga Puja. Following political changes, many temples and Hindu homes were attacked. Nevertheless, with the strict security provided by the police and military, it can be said that the Durga festival was celebrated quite well. At least, no unpleasant news has emerged in the end.

Initially, a significant uproar occurred at a puja pandal when a group of Islamists performed Islamic songs. This sparked considerable criticism on social media. Reports indicate that the individuals involved have been arrested. While such measures may not have been entirely necessary, this unpleasant incident at the start of the festival undoubtedly caused some resentment within the Hindu community.

It is worth noting that although the Sharadiya Durga Utsav is the primary religious festival for the Hindu community, it has taken on a universal significance in Bangladesh's culture. As a result, various cultural festivals are held across the country in conjunction with Durga Puja. People from all religions participate in the fairs and cultural events organized for the occasion. Any religious festival encompasses two aspects: one is religious, specific to that faith, and the other is social, open to everyone. For centuries, the people of Bengal have celebrated each other's religions this way.

Once, there was a saying: "Religion is for everyone, but the festival belongs to all." However, this time, for various reasons, many have overshadowed that saying. A new mantra is emerging: "Religion belongs to its followers, and so do the festivals." If this continues, the bonds of harmony in Bengal will soon be shattered. It is indeed sad that we still have to propagate the message of unity.

In the timeless culture of Bengal, such division was unnecessary; yet, due to misunderstandings surrounding religion in today’s political reality, we find ourselves reiterating old truths. There is also a form of dominance over minorities in the name of inclusion. Therefore, we hope that the dominance over other religions comes to an end, and the melody of harmony remains intact. Wishing everyone a joyful Sharadiya Durga Puja!