Asia’s Largest Durga Puja Extravaganza: Shikdar Bari Mandap in Bangladesh Sets New Records
Organizers proudly announced that more than four lakh devotees visited the mandap every day throughout the five-day celebration, with a total footfall of over twenty lakh
Dhaka: In a vibrant and awe-inspiring celebration of culture, Asia’s largest Durga Puja took center stage at the Shikdar Bari Mandap in Bagerhat, Bangladesh. With a staggering 501 meticulously crafted idols, this grand event drew over 20 lakh devotees, both domestic and international, and concluded with a heartfelt farewell to Mother Durga.
The event followed the traditional ten-day observance of Durga Puja, with the Dasami Puja marking the formal end of the festivities at 9:42 AM. As the idols began their journey into the nearby Bhola river for immersion, emotions ran high among the dedicated devotees who had gathered to witness the grand spectacle.
The Shikdar Bari Mandap, home to this monumental celebration, became a bustling hub of activity, attracting people from various professions and religions. Notably, visitors from neighboring India also made their way to Bangladesh to partake in this spectacular display of devotion.
Organizers proudly announced that more than four lakh devotees visited the mandap every day throughout the five-day celebration, with a total footfall of over twenty lakh. Distinguished guests, including Indian Assistant High Commissioner Indrojit Sagar, Press Club of India President Gautam Lahiri, and local government officials, graced the event with their presence.
The significance of this Durga Puja at Shikdar Bari goes beyond mere numbers. After adapting to scaled-down celebrations due to the COVID-19 pandemic in recent years, the event made a resplendent return with 501 idols. These idols were meticulously designed to depict the mythology of various eras, from Satya to Kali Yuga.
The showstopper of this grand spectacle was the colossal 65-foot-long idol of sleeping Kumbhakarna, a mesmerizing centerpiece that left a lasting impression on all who attended. Additionally, idols representing characters from the Mahabharata and other mythological narratives graced the mandap.
The entire premises, including the main gate, the temple, and the surroundings, were adorned with captivating decorations, creating a captivating visual experience for visitors. The preparations, spanning three months and involving over fifty decorator workers, transformed the Shikdar Bari Mandap into an enchanting and colorful realm.
Fifteen skilled idol artists invested five months in crafting the 501 idols, showcasing an unparalleled dedication to their craft. It is no wonder that the organizers and locals proudly assert that Shikdar Bari’s Durga Puja is South Asia’s largest event in terms of the number of idols.
Liton Shikder, the businessman and social worker responsible for organizing this remarkable event, shared his vision, saying, “This event is no longer my family event; it has become a social festival. The number of devotees and visitors coming here is constantly increasing. We are also trying our best to win the good heart of the devotees.” He also hinted at another grand event in the coming year.
This journey of grandeur began in 2010 when village doctor Dulal Shikdar initiated an exceptional Durga Puja with 151 idols. Over the years, the number of idols steadily increased, making Shikdar Bari Mandap a prominent destination for Hindu religious leaders and devotees in South Asia. Though the pandemic led to scaled-down celebrations for a few years, the event made a triumphant return, setting new benchmarks in devotion and grandeur.
