Overview:
The Thanthania Dutta Barir Durga Puja is one of Kolkata’s esteemed Bonedi Bari (aristocratic family) durga pujas, celebrated for its rich history, adherence to time-honored rituals, and cultural heritage. Located in the North Kolkata area of Thanthania, this puja reflects the city’s aristocratic past and religious devotion, drawing devotees year after year for its spiritual aura and traditional grandeur.
Historical Background
Founded over 150 years ago by the Dutta family, this durga puja has retained its aristocratic charm and ritual purity throughout generations. The family originally hailed from the Hathkhola area, with links to the East India Company and trade in earlier centuries, combining tradition with cultural patronage.
The Thanthania Dutta Barir Durga Puja holds a distinguished place among Kolkata’s revered bonedi bari (aristocratic family) durga pujas. Established in 1855 by Dwarkanath Dutta, the puja has flourished over more than
160 years as a beacon of religious devotion and cultural heritage in North Kolkata’s Thanthania neighborhood.
A defining feature of Thanthania Dutta Barir’s Durga Puja is the idol of Goddess Durga, worshipped here in the rare and striking form of “Hara-Gouri” or “Shib Durga” — where the goddess is depicted seated peacefully on Lord Shiva’s lap, symbolizing the divine union of Shakti and Shiva. This portrayal is unique compared to the traditional Mahishasuramardini (demon-slaying) form, presenting Durga as a compassionate, benevolent mother rather than a warrior.
The idol itself is notable for its serene smile and absence of multiple arms or Asura figures, signifying peace and divine grace. Flanking the goddess are idols of Kartik, Saraswati, Lakshmi, and Ganesh, in keeping with Shakta customs. The idol is typically adorned with classical golden jewelry, enhancing its majestic yet maternal charm.
The rituals carried out at this puja adhere to strict Tantric and Vaishnavite traditions and include famous ceremonies such as the Dhuno Porano — a mesmerising practice where multiple married women simultaneously wave burning “malsa” (a type of aromatic herb) smoke around the idol, symbolizing purification and devotion.
The puja spans ten days, starting from the Mahalaya, marking the beginning of the Durga worship season (Devipaksha), and involves carefully choreographed worship sequences reflecting the family’s dedication to preserving ancient traditions.
Ritual Practices
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The puja follows classical Tantric rituals combined with Vaishnavite devotional elements.
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Traditional ceremonies include pushpanjali, dhuno porano (offering of sacred smoke), and sandhi puja (performed during the transition between Nabami and Dashami).
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The family members actively participate in carrying the idol during immersion, preserving a centuries-old tradition.
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Women of the family perform dhuno purano, enhancing the spiritual intensity of the rituals.
Artistic and Cultural Significance
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The idol craftsmanship is intricate, often hand-made within the family’s traditional art circles.
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The puja pandal reflects old Kolkata aesthetics with classic decorations and an emphasis on heritage over modern extravagance.
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Communal feasts (bhog) prepared with historic recipes are shared among devotees.
Location and Access
- 3 Bidhan Sarani (College Street), Thanthania, Kolkata, 700006 (Near Thanthania Kali Bari and Pasteur Laboratories)
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Situated in Thanthania, near key landmarks such as the Thanthania Kali Bari temple.
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Easily accessible by Kolkata metro and local transport, making it a favored puja for both locals and visitors curious about Kolkata’s bonedi bari culture.
This iconic Durga Puja symbolizes the cultural wealth and spiritual continuity inherent in Kolkata’s bonedi bari celebrations, inviting all to experience the devotion and heritage of one of the city’s proudest traditions.
