Even when India logs more than 11,000 cases per day, West Bengal is all decked up to celebrate Durga Puja. It is the biggest festival of Bengal, which has left the city in crisis. The ongoing pandemic has taught people the value of life. And when it comes to Bengal, it has been a victim of pandemics, floods and cyclones. Needless to say, the sufferance of all the poor/destitute are hidden under the roof.
Despite the increase in COVID-19 cases, Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee lifted the night curfew for the days of festivities. Although the state lacks infrastructure, medical facilities, job opportunities, etc., the puja community receives a one-time grant of ₹50,000 and enjoys a 50% power usage discount.
Though, there have been areas in Kolkata where people have maintained strict COVID norms, fear still realms in the sky of Bengal. The use of masks and hand sanitisers is compulsory for all visitors to pandals.
As per The Hindu, “The total economic worth of the creative activities involved in Durga Puja festival is about ₹32,377 crore and the festival contributes to 2.58% of West Bengal’s GDP, reveals a study carried out by the British Council.”
Rearing under the enthusiasm of festivities, it will be sad to see how West Bengal handles the third wave of COVID-19.
When hope fades, life seems difficult. Still, there is hope. The hope which peeps out from heaven. With prayers and petitions, Bengal needs to fight the post-festive season.