The city of Kolkata holds a special place, its Durga Puja being a defining characteristic. The depiction of Mahishasura Mardini in this Bengali city is remarkable. Durga Puja pandals begin to appear from the Sasthi of the Sharadiya Navratri. Puja is performed for four days, with the immersion of the Mahishasura Mardini idols on the tenth day. This day also features Sindoor Khela, where married women apply sindoor to each other. The sight is captivating.
When red-bordered white sarees are adorned with sindoor, Bengal comes alive. The anticipation for Sasthi was a constant during my time in Kolkata. From four in the morning on Sasthi, Dhaks begin to play at Durga pandals, and the worship of ‘Ayi Girinandinini’ commences. Every Bengali is fond of the Dhak, played by both women and men. This drum-like instrument is played standing up. While fingers tap on a Dholak, the Dhak uses bamboo sticks. The Dholak is played during all auspicious occasions, but the Dhak is mainly played during Durga Puja. The number of Dhak players is dwindling as their demand is primarily during Durga Puja. Ahiritola in Kolkata has been famous for Dhak players. Tabla player Tanmay Bose recognized the talent of Dhak players and initiated efforts to bring the Dhak into mainstream music.
