Stockholm Bangiya Sanatan Samaj – Sweden (Since 1988): Durga Puja and Bengali Heritage in the Nordics

Moments

Founded in 1988 through a celebration of Bijaya Dashami, the Stockholm Bangiya Sanatan Samaj is the oldest Hindu social and cultural organization of its kind in Sweden and the greater Nordic region. Its stated aim is to promote and practice Indian and Bengali culture within Swedish society, using religious festivals, cultural activities, and educational initiatives to build bridges that connect diverse communities.

Durga Puja: Stockholm’s Largest and Most Joyful Bengali Festival

Durga Puja—celebrated annually—is the biggest festival organized by Bangiya Sanatan Samaj and serves as an anchor for Sweden’s Bengali diaspora. The event spans several days and includes:

  • Traditional rituals and worship: Full Bengali sequence of bodhon, anjali, sandhi puja, aarati, sindoor khela, and visarjan, as would be seen in Kolkata.

  • Cultural programs: Music, dance, drama, and literature performances by local enthusiasts and guest artists, held in prominent venues such as Spånga Folkets Hus.

  • Community feasts: Classic Bengali bhog and prasad, welcoming participants of all backgrounds to share in the joy and flavors of Bengal.

Community Values and Membership

The Samaj is open to all who wish to join and support its principles. Members participate in festivals, social gatherings, and community outreach for both adults and children. Annual membership is SEK 100, which includes benefits like festival participation, cultural engagement, and preservation of Bengali values within Sweden.

Why Stockholm Bangiya Sanatan Samaj’s Durga Puja Is Special

  • Historic and inclusive: Oldest Durga Puja celebration in the Nordic region, uniting Bengalis from India and Bangladesh with Swedish friends and other nationalities.

  • Cultural preservation: Acts as the main channel for promoting Bengali traditions, language, and festive art in Scandinavia.

  • Intergenerational connection: Fosters bonds between elders, youth, and newcomers, passing down stories, practices, and joy.

For program schedules, updates, and details on joining, see https://www.pujo2pujo.com/ or the Samaj’s official page.

Experience the vibrancy of Durga Puja in Stockholm—where Bengali tradition flourishes and community joy bridges continents since 1988, thanks to Bangiya Sanatan Samaj.