How this Durga Puja in Kolkata ignites debate on two sides of Artificial Intelligence

The Jagat Mukherjee Park puja committee said that the aim of their pandal is to highlight that AI is not just about robots or science fiction anymore.

Kolkata | Updated: September 6, 2025 02:35 PM IST

The committee said that the aim of the pandal is to highlight that AI is not just about robots or science fiction anymore. (Express photo by Partha Paul)

Durga Puja in Kolkata is not only about worship and celebration, it is also about new ideas and creative themes. Every year, puja committees choose unique concepts to decorate their pandals. This year, Jagat Mukherjee Park puja committee led by Shri Subal Pal has chosen a very modern and thought-provoking theme ‘Artificial Intelligence: A Blessing or a Curse?’

The puja committee, which is celebrating its 89th year, will use decoration and artwork to show how AI is changing our world, during this festival season, which starts on September 28. The organisers say that AI is like a double-edged sword — on one side, it is helpful in many ways, it can predict disasters, improve education, save time, and even help in medical treatments with speed and accuracy. “On the other side, it can also create problems. AI is taking away jobs, reducing human interaction, and raising concerns about privacy and security,” Pal said.

According to the organisers, the decorations will show the journey of human intelligence from the invention of the wheel to the present day of advanced technology.

The committee said that the aim of the pandal is to highlight that AI is not just about robots or science fiction anymore. “It is now part of our daily lives. It can make life easier, but if not used carefully, it can become dangerous,” said Subal Pal.

According to the organisers, the decorations will show the journey of human intelligence from the invention of the wheel to the present day of advanced technology. It will highlight both the blessings and the risks of AI.

Along with the theme, the puja committee also sends a spiritual message. The committee has prayed to Goddess Jagaddhatri to guide people in using technology wisely. Their message reads, “Let the light that rises from darkness remove ignorance. Let us accept the good in technology and leave behind the harmful.”

By choosing this theme, Jagat Mukherjee Park has shown that Durga Puja is also about connecting with current issues. Visitors can enjoy the art and creativity of the pandal while also thinking about how AI is shaping the future.

(Anisha Ghosh is an intern with The Indian Express)

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