Dimapur, the commercial hub of Nagaland wore a festive look as Durga Puja celebrations entered its second day on Sunday. Nagaland Governor La Ganesan offered prayers at various pandals at Dimapur–Sitla Mata temple, Near Railway station; Rajbari Durga Puja Committee, PWD Durga Puja Committee. In Kohima, he attended Kohima Bazar Durga Puja Committee, opposite Head Post office. During his visits he extended warm wishes to all and also expressed his happiness for their devotion and dedication.
At Dimapur, puja was not noisy as in the past when film music blared through PA systems throughout the day till late night hours. Thousands of devotees in their colourful attires flocked to over 50 puja pandals at various parts of Dimapur city on the second day, also referred to as Maha Ashtami. Various stalls were set up outside the pandals selling a variety of sweets, toys, etc, catering to the constant flow of visitors through the day and night.
Speaking to Nagaland Post, Dimapur Bengali Samaj (DBS) president advocate K.K. Paul informed that 51 puja pandals had been set up in Dimapur.
On the use of eco-friendly materials for making idols, Pal claimed that all puja committees were adhering to the guidelines issued by Hindu Seva Samiti, Dimapur and the administration. All puja committees were to ensure low height and eco-friendly idols – decorated with biodegradable, organic colours such as turmeric, chandan and gerua – to avoid impact on environment.
Pal said the samiti had also been visiting the pandals inorder to check whether the committee were adhering to the guidelines and also to award the pandals in various categories such as beautiful decoration, most disciplined pandals, etc.
On Durga Puja celebration in Nagaland, Pal stated that it was celebrated with great enthusiasm and zeal as the state has a sizeable non-Naga Hindu population employed in various government services and business.
He said despite the state being Christian-majority, there had never been any objection by Nagas to any festival celebrated by followers of any other religion, such as Durga Puja celebrated by the Hindus.
“The people are peace-loving and friendly and do not object to celebration of any religious festival,” he said.
Pal mentioned that the celebration of Durga Puja not only brings joy, but also serves as a reminder of the collective strength needed to combat various threats and to promote arts, crafts and culture in the making of idols.
He also said cultural performances were presented by various groups showcasing traditional art and culture. Pal also informed that sarees were distributed free to women who were unable to afford buying new clothes during the festive season.