With the rule changes brought about by the UK government, Durga pujas in the UK, that are going ahead with its celebration are finding innovative means to keep the audience involved. Depending on which way the UK Government Guidelines take turn, there are various plans and safety measures.
Organisations working closely with the authorities to see whether this year’s Durga Puja needs to be a ‘members only’ Pujo or a mix of members and guests who would be able to book slots for their visits or even be a digital celebration where people from all around can enjoy the carnival while safely staying at home.
Given that not everyone will be able to attend the Pujo, the London Sharad Utsav team has planned to bring the Puja on 24 and 25 October to the homes of the people. Anyone from around the world will be able to able enjoy London Sharad Utsav from the comfort of their homes in both 2D and 3D.
Suranjan Som, Vice President of London Sharad Utsav, noted “No one will miss our Pujo. Anyone will be able to offer Anjali or pray during Sandhi Pujo from their home. We are using leading edge Google VR technology to ensure London Sharad Utsav reaches every home and mobile device across the world. With a relatively inexpensive Google Cardboard VR headset, they will feel that are sitting right in front of our idol, while our priest carries out the regular ceremonies.”
This will be first time anyone in the UK will use this technology to bring Durga Pujo to one’s doorstep. They are also donating VR goggles to the first 25 families to donate £21 or more to the organisation for Pujo. These cardboard goggles are otherwise available to buy on sites like Amazon.
Durga Puja (or simply Pujo – as pronounced in Bengali) is a celebration of good over evil, where the Goddess Durga slays the evil Mahishasura (the demon) signifying the triumph of Shakti (woman power) as well as that of truth, righteousness and well-being. The London Sharad Utsav team has taken a risk-based approach. The committee members have brainstormed new SOPs in which the Pujo can be organised in accordance with the government guidelines for the pandemic.
Kausik Bhadra who led the discussions with the authorities noted that, “We have worked detailed scenarios together with local authorities to plan for a safe and compliant Pujo. All our members who will attend the Pujo will have to undergo training before they can attend the Pujo physically.”
All members have to preregister themselves so that they can be tracked and traced.
