The Thanthania Chandra Bari Puja, initiated by Babu Srinath Chandra in 1850, holds a special place in Kolkata’s cultural tapestry. Located at 224 Bidhan Sarani, this puja celebrates the divine union of Goddess Gauri (Durga) and Lord Hara (Shiva). Here’s a glimpse into the rituals, traditions, and significance of this historic celebration.
Historical Legacy of Thanthania Chandra Bari
The Thanthania Chandra Bari Durga Puja is not just a festival but a legacy that dates back to the early 
19th century. Established by the Chandra family, this puja has been an integral part of Kolkata’s cultural fabric for over two centuries. The Chandra Bari, with its distinctive architecture and old-world charm, stands as a testament to the city’s rich historical and cultural heritage.
The Architectural Marvel
The Chandra Bari is a striking example of traditional Bengali architecture, with its spacious courtyards, intricate woodwork, and elegant facades. The grandeur of the Bari is amplified during Durga Puja when it is adorned with beautiful decorations, traditional motifs, and vibrant lighting. The ambiance of the Chandra Bari, combined with the spiritual fervor of the festival, creates an atmosphere of reverence and joy.
The ‘Dhuno Purano’ Ritual: A Glimpse into Tradition
One of the most significant and visually captivating rituals of the Thanthania Chandra Bari Puja is the ‘dhuno purano’. This age-old ritual is a symbolic representation of devotion, purity, and the triumph of good over evil. Performed with great reverence and meticulous care, the ‘dhuno purano’ is a highlight of the puja, drawing in devotees from far and wide.
Purification and Devotion
Another captivating ritual of the Thanthania Chandra Bari Puja is the dhuno purano, which takes place on Ashtami. This ceremony is a blend of spiritual purification and cultural tradition, offering a glimpse into the devotional practices associated with the festival.
The Ritual Procedure
During the dhuno purano, the women of the household participate in a ritual that involves carrying maalsha (clayware) containing dhuno, a resin from the sal tree, on their hands and heads. Dhuno, an Indian form of frankincense, is known for its aromatic qualities and is believed to purify the environment and dispel negative energies.
The women, dressed in traditional attire, sit facing the idol of Goddess Durga while performing the ritual. The fragrant smoke of the dhuno wafts through the air, creating an atmosphere of reverence and devotion. This ritual is not only a form of worship but also a means of expressing gratitude and seeking blessings from the goddess.
Personal Significance
For many families, participating in the dhuno purano is a deeply personal experience. Those who have had their wishes fulfilled often take part in the ritual as an act of thanksgiving. This practice reflects the belief in the goddess’s benevolence and the desire to honor her through traditional customs.
During the puja, the family engages in the “dhuno purano” ritual. Previously, a neelkontho (Indian roller) bird was released on Bijoya Dashami, but now a clay bird is worshipped instead. This tradition fosters unity and harmony within the family.
The Puja Festivities: A Blend of Tradition and Celebration
Thanthania Chandra Bari Puja is a harmonious blend of traditional rituals, cultural performances, and community celebrations. The five-day festival is marked by a series of rituals, each with its unique significance and charm.
Shashthi: The Commencement
The festivities begin on Shashthi, the sixth day of Navratri, with the unveiling of the idol and the ritual of 
Bodhon. This marks the official commencement of the puja, with devotees offering prayers and flowers to welcome Goddess Durga. The Chandra Bari comes alive with the sound of conch shells and the chanting of mantras, creating an atmosphere of spiritual upliftment.
Saptami: The Invocation
Saptami is marked by the ritual of Nabapatrika, where nine different plants symbolizing the nine forms of the goddess are worshipped. The idol is bathed in holy water, and the priests chant hymns to invoke the goddess’s blessings. This day also sees a variety of cultural performances, including traditional music and dance, which add to the festive spirit.
The Gold Mohur: A Symbol of Divine Power
One of the most intriguing aspects of the Thanthania Chandra Bari Puja is the ritual involving the gold mohur. This custom is a testament to the festival’s deep-rooted traditions and the reverence with which Goddess Durga is worshipped.
The Ritual of the Gold Mohur
During the Sandhi Puja, a critical ritual performed at the juncture of Ashtami and Navami, a specific gold mohur is placed inside a sindoor dani (vermilion box). The mohur, a gold coin traditionally used in rituals, is carefully positioned on the goddess’s palm. This act holds profound symbolic meaning, as it represents the goddess’s transition from a peaceful demeanor to a warrior ready to vanquish evil.
Once the Sandhi Puja concludes, the gold mohur is returned to the sindoor dani. This tradition underscores the idea that while Goddess Durga is momentarily depicted as a ten-armed warrior during the ritual, her true essence is beyond mere weaponry. The presence of the mohur, however, signifies her divine authority and the power she wields to protect her devotees.
The Doshobhuja Representation
The use of the gold mohur is closely linked to the depiction of the Doshobhuja, or the ten-armed avatar of Goddess Durga. This form is often illustrated on the chalchitra (hand-painted backdrop) during the puja, symbolizing the goddess’s role as a fierce protector. The image of Doshobhuja, placed above the Hara-Gauri, highlights the dual nature of the goddess: her nurturing, benevolent side, and her powerful, protective aspect during critical moments like the Sandhi Puja.
Vijayadashami: The Immersion Procession
On Dashami, as the goddess prepares to leave Thanthania Chandra Bari, she is carried on a bamboo 
palanquin. Family members, except the daughters-in-law, follow Durga to the immersion ghat barefoot. Before joining the procession, they partake in “dodhikorma” (a mixture of flattened rice, curd, milk, and batasha).
Konokanjali Ritual
Each year, one of the daughters-in-law performs the “konokanjali” ritual. During this poignant moment, the husband places rice, sweets, and a silver coin into the wife’s “aanchal” (the loose end of her sari). The wife accepts the offering, facing the idol, and walks away without looking back.
Post-Immersion Celebrations
After returning from Jagannath Ghat, family members receive blessings with “shantir jol” (holy water) and
enjoy “siddhi mishti” (traditional sweets). For dinner, they savor “shaaker ghonto” (a mixed vegetable dish), “payesh” (rice pudding), and fish.
Conclusion
The Thanthania Chandra Bari Puja on Bidhan Sarani, with its rich traditions, cultural performances, and the enchanting ‘dhuno purano’ ritual, is a testament to Kolkata’s vibrant cultural heritage. The festival brings together people from diverse backgrounds, fostering a sense of community, devotion, and joy. As the fragrant smoke of the ‘dhuno purano’ ritual swirls into the air, it carries with it the essence of Kolkata’s timeless allure and the enduring spirit of Durga Puja.
This puja, with its unique blend of tradition and celebration, continues to captivate the hearts of devotees and visitors, making it a cherished part of Kolkata’s cultural tapestry. The legacy of the Thanthania Chandra Bari Puja is not just in its rituals and festivities but in the sense of unity and reverence it instills in all who participate. As we look forward to future celebrations, the Thanthania Chandra Bari Puja remains a shining example of the power of tradition, community, and faith.
