In a grand spectacle of culture and community, the latest edition of the Thames Durga Parade turned the River Thames into a stage for Bengali traditions, marking yet another successful effort in bringing Kolkata’s Durga Pujo to London. Led by Heritage Bengal Global team, with support of sponsors, the event showcased an impressive blend of cultural homage, community collaboration, and sustainable practices, leaving a lasting impression on both Londoners and members of the Indian diaspora.
A Community-Driven Event
Under the capable leadership of Vice President Mahua Bej, the HBG members, including Subhankar Mukherjee, Farzana, Sakshi, and the energetic younger generation—Rohan, Amelia, and Misha—took charge of setting up Bengali-themed decorations throughout the two-story boat. Their efforts created an immersive, festive ambience that beautifully represented Bengal’s culture. To bring cultural depth to the occasion, Sufi Asmar Ali and Dr Sanjukta Ghosh of the School of Oriental and African Studies (SOAS) meticulously curated the cultural program, infusing traditional Bengali music and rituals into the proceedings.
Smooth operations and hospitality
Ensuring that guests had a seamless experience, Team HBG meticulously handled every operational aspect. From entry and food service to managing the bar and ensuring guest comfort, the logistics team members—Apurba Bose, Jayanta Bej, Prasun Mandal, Radha Dhiman Goswamy, and Tushar and Esha Das Ghosh—executed their roles with precision. Their efforts allowed over 200 distinguished guests to fully immerse themselves in the festivities without a hitch. The involvement of Dr Debojyoti Das of the Centre for South Asia and the Middle East (CSM), University of London, proved vital in coordinating with Techno India University. His leadership facilitated the participation of students and faculty from the Kolkata-based university, adding an educational and collaborative layer to the cultural event.
The Parade and its highlights
The parade commenced from Putney West Pier, with members of the London Rowing Club rowing along the Thames, accompanying the intricately crafted, eco-friendly Durga idol. This fully sustainable idol, designed by students of Techno India University, was made exclusively from tissue paper. The addition of water collected from 12 rivers worldwide, symbolising cultural unity, blended into the Thames, amplifying the environmental message and making the celebration one of both joy and responsibility.
As the boat made its way along the Thames towards Tower Bridge, a vibrant scene unfolded. Participants performed the Bijoya dance to the lively beats of the traditional Bengali dhaak drums, interspersed with soothing Bhatiyali songs while waving to the spectators gathered on the riverbanks and bridges. Among the notable attendees on board were Sujit Ghosh, Deputy High Commissioner of India to London, and Soumitra Dutta, Dean of Saïd Business School at the University of Oxford, representing the strong connections between India and the UK.
Iconic moment at Tower Bridge
The culmination of the event was marked by an unforgettable moment at Tower Bridge. For the second consecutive year, the historic bridge opened to allow the double-decker boat carrying the Durga idol to pass through. This site, powerfully symbolic of London’s embrace of cultural diversity, quickly went viral. Within hours, a video capturing the moment amassed over a million views, becoming a testament to the widespread resonance of the event.
The decision to create a sustainable Durga idol not only brought a unique cultural artefact to the heart of London but also underlined the organiser’s commitment to environmental responsibility. Nearly ten days after the traditional Durga Pujo celebrations in Kolkata, Ma Durga found a second home on the Thames, symbolising the deep-rooted yet adaptable spirit of Bengali culture.
The Thames Durga Parade successfully united the Indian diaspora with local Londoners, fostering a shared appreciation for cultural diversity and environmental mindfulness. As Team HBG wrapped up another successful year, they left their audience eagerly anticipating next year’s festivities, which promise to be even more engaging and inclusive.
Saat Samudra Tero Nodi Project brings Kolkata to the Thames
This year, BHG launched the innovative ‘Saat Samudra Tero Nodi Project,’ inspired by the Bengali adage symbolizing the spirit of global connection—“living across seven seas and 13 rivers.” The project features a team of adventurers journeying from Kolkata to London, gathering water from seven seas and 13 rivers along the way. “The collected water will be added to the Thames as a powerful symbol of cultural assimilation,” Partha Sarathi Nandy, director of a Kolkata-based company supporting the event told The Times of India.
