Idol Changes Every Four Years, Unbroken 51-Year Tradition: Lakshmi Puja at Dhara House in Katwa

For 51 years, the Kojagari Lakshmi Puja has been celebrated with tradition and devotion at the Dhara house in Katwa, Purba Bardhaman. The puja was initiated by the family's ancestor Muktipada Dhara and his sons. For more than five decades, generation after generation has followed the family tradition of worshipping Goddess Lakshmi.

One of the highlights of the Lakshmi Puja at Dhara house is the special practice of preserving and refreshing the idol. Instead of making a new idol every year, the old idol is given a new look. Along with new saris and ornaments, the complexion and eyes of the idol are repainted by a clay artisan through the angraag process.

However, a completely new idol is made every four years, and the old idol is immersed at that time. Of special significance, the idols for this puja have been made by the same clay artisan's family for generations. As a result, this continuity in idol making has become an important part of the Dhara house puja heritage.

This special Lakshmi Puja is held at Dhara house on the night of the Kojagari full moon, after the Dashami of Durga Puja. Although there have been some changes in the arrangements and decorations of the puja over time, there has been no break in family traditions and customs.

Through a blend of faith, devotion and family tradition, the worship of Goddess Lakshmi has continued at Dhara house for 51 years. Along with family members, a special festive atmosphere also builds up in the area around this puja.

Photo: Akash Kumar Dhara, Katwa, Purba Bardhaman.

News sender: Akash Kumar Dhara