Durgapur, a city known for its vibrant spirit and unity, witnessed a truly heartwarming celebration this year as the 16th annual Kali Puja organized by the Yuba Bharatiya Sangha became a festival of inclusion, compassion, and joy. The highlight of this year’s celebration was not the grandeur of the pandal or the brilliance of the lights—it was the presence of the special children from HOPE, who became the true stars of the event.
A Day of Pride and Celebration
On Monday evening, amidst the festive beats of dhak and the glow of diyas, the special children of HOPE inaugurated the Puja with immense grace and pride. As they cut the ceremonial ribbon and lit the sacred lamp, the entire crowd erupted in applause. Their smiles illuminated the evening, spreading an aura of positivity that touched every heart present.
For the community, this was not just a symbolic gesture—it was a celebration of inclusivity, proving that every individual, regardless of ability, has the power to inspire and lead. The organizers of the Yuba Bharatiya Sangha made a remarkable decision to dedicate this year’s Puja to these extraordinary children, acknowledging their spirit, strength, and the message of hope they bring to society.
The Real Celebrities of the Puja
For the thousands of visitors who thronged the pandal, the special children were the true celebrities of the evening. They radiated pure joy as they participated in the rituals, their laughter blending harmoniously with the rhythm of the festival. It was a moving reminder that divinity exists not only in idols or rituals but in the hearts that embrace compassion and togetherness.
As one of the volunteers from the organizing committee said, “When these children lit the lamp, it felt as if Goddess Kali herself had blessed the moment. Their innocence and happiness gave a new meaning to our Puja.”
Art, Talent, and Expression Under the Sun
The celebration continued the following day, Sunday, with an art competition organized by the committee members. Children from different parts of the community participated, filling the park with colors, laughter, and creativity. The special children from HOPE played yet another beautiful role in this event — they were invited to distribute the prizes to the winners.
As they handed over the awards, their faces glowed with pride and excitement. It was not just an act of giving prizes; it was a symbolic exchange of respect, love, and equality. The audience stood in admiration, realizing that true empowerment begins when society treats everyone with dignity and appreciation.
HOPE: Spreading Light Beyond Boundaries
For over two decades, HOPE Durgapur has been dedicated to nurturing and empowering children with physical and intellectual disabilities. The organization’s mission is to provide education, therapy, and emotional support to help every child live a dignified and fulfilling life. Events like this Puja celebration highlight the importance of social inclusion — a value HOPE has been championing since its inception.
The collaboration between HOPE and the Yuba Bharatiya Sangha this year set an example for communities across Paschim Bardhaman. It reminded everyone that when we open our hearts and embrace diversity, society becomes richer, more humane, and filled with love.
A Festival Beyond Rituals
The 16th Kali Puja in Durgapur will be remembered not for its decorations or festivities, but for the beautiful message it carried. The event showed that festivals are not just about worship—they are about bringing people together, breaking barriers, and celebrating humanity.
As the lights of the Puja dimmed and the night settled in, the glow on the faces of HOPE’s children continued to shine. They had not only inaugurated a festival but had also ignited a new wave of awareness and acceptance in society.
Their presence reminded everyone that true celebration lies in inclusion—in giving every individual, regardless of their abilities, the chance to feel valued, respected, and loved.