Gulshan-Banani Puja Foundation picks water-theme as source of life

Water, the source of life and a symbol of purity and creation, will take centre stage at this year’s Durga Puja celebrations organised by the Gulshan-Banani Sarbojanin Puja Foundation. The foundation has chosen ‘Jalaj’, meaning ‘born of water’, as its theme for Sharodotsav 1433, placing the importance of water and its connection to life, spirituality and nature at the heart of its pandal design.

The theme draws on the idea that water is essential not only to life on Earth but also to the spiritual and cultural traditions of Hinduism. While modern science recognises water as a fundamental condition for life, ancient Vedic thought also regarded it as a primordial element of creation. The Rigveda’s Nasadiya Sukta evokes a state before creation in which an immense expanse of water prevailed amid darkness.

In Sanatan Hindu tradition, water is more than a natural resource. It represents purity, renewal and the continuity of life. From the fluid environment of the womb to the final offerings made on the banks of the Ganges, water is closely intertwined with the human life cycle. It is central to sacred rituals, including the installation of the ceremonial pot, offerings to ancestors, fire rituals and spiritual purification.

The foundation’s concept also draws on the symbolism of the lotus, which emerges from water to bloom in all its beauty. In a similar way, the organisers envision Goddess Durga, the embodiment of primordial divine energy, emerging like a lotus from the depths of existence.

This spiritual vision will be reflected in the architecture and decoration of the pandal. Designed around a large-scale, water-inspired organic form, the structure will incorporate environmentally friendly materials such as bamboo, cane, natural fibres and jute. Layered, undulating installations will evoke enormous waves suspended in motion, creating an immersive setting for visitors.
From the entrance to the innermost sanctum, the journey through the pandal is intended to evoke a passage from the turbulence of nature towards the tranquillity of the Goddess’s feet. Waterfall features, reflection pools and carefully designed lighting will combine to create a changing visual atmosphere. At the centre, a large lotus-shaped structure will serve as the focal point, with Goddess Durga appearing to blossom from the depths of the water.

Beyond its religious and artistic dimensions, ‘Jalaj’ carries a message of environmental responsibility. Climate change, river encroachment and water pollution are placing increasing pressure on the planet’s water systems. For Bangladesh, a country shaped by its rivers and waterways, protecting water is inseparable from safeguarding its natural heritage, history and future generations.

The organisers say the theme is not intended to inspire fear, but to encourage people to reconnect with nature, cherish its gifts and protect the living world. By bringing together water, the lotus, sacred waters, human thirst and the continuity of life, the celebration seeks to convey a message of reverence for nature and responsibility towards the environment.

The foundation’s prayer to Goddess Durga is that she may free the world from thirst, protect life and nature, and grant humanity the power of creation rather than destruction.

The Gulshan-Banani Sarbojanin Puja Foundation has invited people from all walks of life, regardless of religion or community, to join its Sharodotsav celebrations at Kamal Ataturk Park in Banani.

Jalaj — a celebration of joy and the spirit of Sharodotsav 1433.