NAGAON, Oct 4 � Durga Puja, the festival which attracts all sections of people, irrespective of cast, creed and religion, came to an end today with the immersion of images. During the last four days, a festive atmosphere was observed all over Nagaon town and its neighbouring areas.
According to history, Durga Puja in Nagaon is 164 years old. The first Durga Puja in Nagaon was held in 1850 with the initiative of a lawyer named Janaki Sen. This Puja, arranged till today by his successors, attracted all sections of people.
Some other pujas in Nagaon, including those at the Binapani Natya Mandir of Haibargaon, Nagaon Bangali Sanmilani, Fouzdari Patty, Amola Patty, etc., have also completed 100 years.
The glittering lights and decorations of mandaps added to the attractions of this festival.
The image made by well known artist Nitya Biswas, using sticks of coconut tree, drew praises by the people of the town. Interestingly, every year Biswas makes unique images using various materials, which are always praised by people.
The over 100-year-old wooden image of Goddess Durga at Puranigudam, made by Lerela Khnikar, is also a very special attraction of Nagaon during Puja.
A book fair, organised by the Puranigudam Press Club since the last several years, is also another exceptional activity. The orgnisers believe in giving a book to a child instead of a pistol.
The cultural functions, arranged by various puja committees, also drew a large number of people. The open air function arranged by Fouzdari Patty Kala Mandir attracted many people of the town.
The weather was good during the festive session and business establishment seemed doing good business. The Chinese toys flooded the Nagaon market this year also.
Some puja special issues of magazines were also sold in large numbers during the puja.
Today, due to Vijaya Dasami, most of the business establishments were closed, offering a chance to its employees to enjoy the puja.
The district administration made adequate security arrangements during the puja and also on the day of Dasami.
