First Time Durga Puja in the Village, Preparations Begin with the Ritual of the Foundation Stone

**Maldah:** Until now, residents of Dahua had to travel nearly three kilometers to another village to enjoy the joy of Durga Puja. Some would bring along small children, while others would accompany elderly parents. Even though the festival of Puja arrived, there was no opportunity to stand at the pandal in their own village and hear the sound of the drums. This time, that regret is about to be fulfilled. For the first time, Durga Puja is going to be held in Dahua village.

On Tuesday afternoon, the **foundation stone worship of Dahua Sarbajanin Durga Puja** was held in Dahua village of the Harishchandrapur-2 block's Daulatpur gram panchayat. The atmosphere of celebration was present in the village from morning, centered around the foundation stone worship. Excitement was visible among everyone in the village, from young to old.

According to local residents, until now, Durga Puja meant going outside the village. They had to go to a pandal nearly three kilometers away to see the idol. Especially for children and the elderly, traveling was a problem. This time, that distance will be eliminated, and the Durga Puja pandal will be built in their own village.

Organizers claim that this year's Puja is being organized with the money donated by the villagers. They have mentioned that nearly **two lakh rupees** may be spent in the first year. However, there are plans for a larger Puja in the future. The organizers are also considering organizing Durga Puja with a theme in the future.

Preparations have already begun for the arrival of Maa Durga in their own village for the first time. Now the residents of Dahua are waiting for when the idol will be placed in the pandal, the drums will play, and the joy of Durga Utsav will begin in their own village.