Durga Puja 2024: Aagomoni Prabasi Sangh Pune Gears Up for Its 7th Year of Festivities with a Pet-Friendly Pandal, Bhog, and Cultural Extravaganza

Pune, 1st October 2024: Durga Puja is more than just a festival—it’s a celebration of life, joy, and community. This year, Aagomoni Prabasi Sangh, a socio-cultural organization based in Pune, is marking its 7th year of Durga Puja festivities. Known for its unique and inclusive celebrations, the Sangh’s ‘pet-friendly’ pandal has been winning hearts across the city.

For countless families, Durga Puja is a time to immerse themselves in six days of festivity, filled with delectable food, pandal hopping, cultural performances, and the warmth of community. The festival symbolizes the return of Goddess Durga to her paternal home, bringing with her blessings of joy, prosperity, and strength.

Rajesh Burman, General Secretary of Aagomoni Prabasi Sangh, shares, “Durga Puja is not just a festival; it is an emotion, a time for happy tides. Our celebration has grown over the years, and we are thrilled to present yet another year of festivities that brings together people of all communities.”

Aagomoni Prabasi Sangh, founded in 2018, is not just a cultural organization—it’s a hub for community-building, philanthropy, and artistic expression. Located in Baner, Pune, the Sangh is known for its commitment to cultural, sports, literary, and charitable activities. This year’s celebration began with the traditional Khuti Pujo on 25th September, a ritual that marks the start of Durga Puja by worshipping the bamboo pillars before the pandal construction.

“The Khuti Pujo signifies that our most beloved festival is near,” said Burman. “Our preparations are in full swing, with raw materials arriving and construction set to commence across a sprawling 45,000 square feet area.”

Aagomoni’s six-day Durga Puja will feature a blend of in-house cultural performances, food, and community activities. From the divine offering of kichuri bhog (prasad) to the much-awaited Anondo Mela, where members showcase their culinary talents, the celebrations promise something for everyone.

“Our Puja is open to all—there’s no special treatment or VIP passes,” Burman emphasized. “We welcome people from all religious communities to join us, along with their pets, as we are Pune’s first pet-friendly pandal.”

Key Highlights of Aagomoni Durga Puja 2024:

1. Bhog for All: A delectable offering of khichuri, begun bhaja, labra (mixed vegetables), chutney, and sweets for members and their families.

2. Charity Initiatives:
– Blood donation camp
– Health check-up camp
– On-the-spot eye testing

3. Special Guests: Srimat Swami Smaranananda ji Maharaj of Ramakrishna Math and Krishna Bhau of Shantiniketan will grace the occasion.

4. Cultural Extravaganza: A wide range of performances, including:
– Folk music from Birbhum by Suman and his team
– A dance performance by Dr. Devika P. Borthakur and her team, recipients of the Outstanding Artist Fellowship for Sattriya from the Ministry of Culture, Delhi.
– Musical performances by the original RD Burman team featuring Raj Sodha, Pradipto Sengupta, and Sachin Jambhekar.
– A performance by the Bangla band Bondini Bangla Bhasha.

5. Food Stalls: A variety of food stalls offering the best Bengali and regional delicacies.

“The Aagomoni Prabasi Sangh’s Durga Puja is all about inclusivity, community, and celebration. With ample parking for over 500 cars and a series of events designed to engage all age groups, this year’s Durga Puja promises to be a memorable affair. Punekars, come and celebrate Durga Puja with us,” Burman invites.