Kolkata’s Durga Puja celebrations are a grand confluence of artistry, tradition, and community spirit. Among the numerous iconic Pujas in the city, Hatibagan Sarbojanin has consistently stood out for its unique blend of tradition and modernity. In 2023, Hatibagan Sarbojanin Durga Puja is set to embrace the theme of ‘Doshar’, creating anticipation for a pandal that reflects the complexities of human relationships, companionship, and emotional bonds.
The Legacy of Hatibagan Sarbojanin Durga Puja
Before delving into the theme, it is important to acknowledge the rich history of the Hatibagan Sarbojanin 
Durga Puja. Established several decades ago, this Puja has been a vital part of the North Kolkata Durga Puja circuit. Known for its attention to detail, Hatibagan Sarbojanin has consistently delivered captivating themes, innovative pandal designs, and intricately crafted idols. The Puja committee, driven by creativity, always explores new ideas, often intertwining the spiritual with the social and emotional aspects of life.
Hatibagan Sarbojanin Durga Puja is not just about the festivities. It is a reflection of Kolkata’s heritage, its artistic inclinations, and its deep-rooted cultural values. Year after year, this Puja has evolved, adapting to changing times while holding on to its core traditions. With every new theme, Hatibagan offers its visitors a chance to reflect, to ponder, and to celebrate the nuances of life in the midst of divine festivities.
The Theme ‘Doshar’: An Exploration of Relationships
The word ‘Doshar’ in Bengali translates to “companion” or “partner.” It carries with it the essence of bonding, companionship, and the dynamics of relationships. The theme for Hatibagan Sarbojanin Durga Puja 2023 delves into this emotional terrain, offering a creative interpretation of the varied relationships that shape our lives—be it the bond between a mother and child, the connection between friends, or the complicated 
dynamics between partners.
The Puja committee’s choice of this theme reflects a deeper understanding of the emotional fabric that defines human life. Durga Puja, at its heart, is about family and reunion. It brings together people from all walks of life, from different places, to celebrate the homecoming of the Goddess. The theme of ‘Doshar’ complements this idea by focusing on the importance of companionship in our lives—how relationships evolve, how they support us, and how they sometimes become a source of conflict or growth.
The Pandal: A Masterpiece of Art and Emotion
Hatibagan Sarbojanin is known for creating visually stunning pandals that leave a lasting impact on visitors. In 2023, the pandal design will be a physical manifestation of the theme ‘Doshar’. The design is expected to be multi-layered, symbolic of the complex nature of relationships. Different elements within the pandal will depict various forms of companionship, highlighting how relationships can be both a source of strength and vulnerability.
As you step inside the pandal, you are likely to be greeted by art installations that represent different stages of relationships. Intricate murals, made with a combination of traditional and modern art forms, will tell stories of love, friendship, family ties, and the struggles of partnerships. The pandal will be more than just a structure; it will be a storytelling space where each corner offers a narrative that resonates with the theme of ‘Doshar.’
One can expect symbolic representations of companionship in diverse forms. For example, a section of the 
pandal may focus on the bond between Durga and her children, while another may highlight the complex relationship between Durga and Mahishasura, representing how even adversarial relationships have their role in the balance of the universe. These symbolic contrasts will bring the theme to life, encouraging visitors to reflect on their own relationships.
The use of lighting and color will also play a significant role in conveying the emotional tone of the theme. Warm hues might represent the comfort of relationships, while darker shades may depict the pain and conflicts that often accompany companionship. This visual storytelling will be a hallmark of Hatibagan Sarbojanin’s artistic vision this year.
The Idol: Durga as the Eternal Companion
The Durga idol at Hatibagan Sarbojanin Durga Puja 2023 will be a symbolic representation of the Goddess as the eternal companion of humankind. In keeping with the theme ‘Doshar,’ the idol will highlight the various roles that Goddess Durga plays in the lives of her devotees—as a protector, a mother, a friend, and a guide.
This year’s idol design will focus on Durga’s nurturing aspect, symbolizing how she stands by her devotees through their struggles and triumphs. The positioning of her children—Lakshmi, Saraswati, Kartik, and Ganesha—around her will reflect familial bonds, with each deity embodying a different aspect of human relationships. The expression of the idol will be serene yet powerful, conveying the message that companionship is both nurturing and empowering.
The idol’s artistry will reflect the traditional craftsmanship of Kolkata’s idol makers, who have mastered the art of bringing Durga to life with meticulous detailing and spiritual depth. At Hatibagan, the Durga idol has always been a centerpiece that commands attention, and this year, with the theme of ‘Doshar,’ it will likely evoke deep emotional responses from visitors, encouraging them to see the Goddess not just as a deity, but as a constant presence in their lives.
Cultural Programs and Performances: A Celebration of Companionship
Hatibagan Sarbojanin Durga Puja has always placed great emphasis on its cultural programs, and 2023 will be no different. The cultural events this year will revolve around the theme of ‘Doshar,’ exploring the nuances of relationships through music, dance, theater, and poetry.
One of the highlights of the celebration will be a theatrical performance based on Rabindranath Tagore’s works, which often delve into the complexities of human relationships. Tagore’s timeless stories and poems provide a rich source of material to explore the idea of companionship, love, separation, and reunion. The performances will aim to engage the audience emotionally, making them reflect on their own relationships.
Additionally, musical performances featuring Rabindra Sangeet, Baul songs, and modern Bengali music will highlight the theme of togetherness. The melodies of friendship, love, and familial bonds will be brought to life on stage, allowing visitors to experience the joy and beauty of companionship through music.
Visitors can also look forward to art exhibitions, where local artists will showcase their interpretations of the theme ‘Doshar’ through paintings, sculptures, and installations. These exhibitions will provide a platform for emerging artists to express their creativity, while also contributing to the intellectual and cultural fabric of the Puja.
Community Initiatives: Extending the Theme Beyond the Pandal
As part of its social responsibility, Hatibagan Sarbojanin has planned various community initiatives in keeping with the theme of ‘Doshar.’ This year, the Puja committee has launched a campaign to support elderly citizens and the underprivileged who often lack companionship in their lives. Through this initiative, the Puja committee will arrange for community meals, medical camps, and entertainment programs for senior citizens, ensuring that they feel included in the festivities.
Additionally, Hatibagan Sarbojanin is working to raise awareness about mental health and the importance of social bonds in combating loneliness and depression. The Puja committee has partnered with local NGOs and mental health professionals to provide counseling sessions and support programs, focusing on fostering positive relationships in the community.
Conclusion: Hatibagan Sarbojanin’s Tribute to Relationships
The Hatibagan Sarbojanin Durga Puja 2023 with the theme ‘Doshar’ promises to be a celebration of relationships in all their complexities. From the emotionally evocative pandal to the symbolic Durga idol, every aspect of this year’s Puja will encourage visitors to reflect on the importance of companionship in their lives. The cultural programs and community initiatives further strengthen the message that relationships are central to human existence, and that Durga Puja is not just a festival of divine worship but also a celebration of human bonds.
As the city prepares to immerse itself in the grandeur of Durga Puja, Hatibagan Sarbojanin stands out as a testament to the power of relationships—reminding us all that in the journey of life, we are never truly alone.
