Siliguri, 10th October: Siliguri came alive with a grand procession on the morning of Mahalaya, celebrating a century of tradition, emotion and nostalgia associated with the city’s iconic Mitra Sammilani Durga Puja, which has completed 100 years this year.
The procession was organised on Saturday morning to mark the centenary celebrations. It began at Kanchenjunga Stadium, passed through various parts of the city and concluded at the Mitra Sammilani Puja premises.
Several senior citizens and prominent political figures participated in the procession, including West Bengal Tourism Minister and Siliguri MLA Shankar Ghosh, former state minister and former Siliguri Mayor Gautam Deb, and former mayor Gangotri Dutta, among others.
The participation of both senior citizens and younger generations added to the significance of the centenary celebration, reflecting the enduring emotional connection between the puja and the people of Siliguri.
To commemorate its 100-year journey, Mitra Sammilani is showcasing the history and heritage of Siliguri through this year’s Durga Puja theme. The organisers said the celebrations would continue to follow the committee’s longstanding customs and traditions.
The centenary is being celebrated not merely as a milestone for the puja committee but also as a reflection of Siliguri’s history, culture and the emotions passed down through generations. The organisers have encouraged both senior citizens and younger residents to participate in the celebrations, expressing hope that the centenary puja will revive old memories while introducing the city’s rich heritage to the younger generation.
