Irish and Indian artists take centre stage together for Kolkata’s Durga Puja

Given the global recognition of Durga Puja following its UNESCO listing, the artists of the celebrated Irish group Macnas from Galway and of Kolkata’s Behala Nutan Dal agreed to install an idol of Danu along with Maa Durga – a decision reached through a video conference.

Since Danu is a nature goddess who “stays in the water”, her bamboo idol will be installed on a pond.

Lisa Sweeney, a freelance artist at Macnas, a street spectacle theatre company based in Galway with Richard Babington. (Express Photo by Partha Paul)

Sanjib Saha, the artist behind the theme of the Behala Natun Dal Puja Committee, expressed his enthusiasm for the collaborative project. “Kalpana, meaning “imagination”, will be a unique, open-sided structure made of natural materials like bamboo and wood,” he said.

Recently, Ireland’s Ambassador to India, Kevin Kelly, highlighted the “deep-rooted” partnership between Ireland and India, spanning education, culture, and shared values, emphasising the need to explore new opportunities and strengthen their ties.

Goddess Danu, in Irish mythology, holds a similar place to goddess Durga. (Express Photo by Partha Paul)

“Durga Puja in Kolkata is one of the most awe-inspiring festivals I have ever witnessed. The energy, creativity, and community spirit are unparalleled,” Kelly said.

“This fusion of Irish and Indian creativity will offer a visual spectacle that reflects the power of cross-cultural collaboration and celebrates the power of women and the feminine spirit,” said Babington.

Speaking about the collaboration, Behala Notun Dal Convenor and Vice President of Durgapuja Forum Sandipan Banerjee said, “Ireland is celebrating 75 years of its Independence and its relationship with India. Ireland contacted an Indian diplomat. Its embassy in Delhi informed Consul General Mayank Jalan that they are holding a cultural exchange programme.”

As a neat side-effect of the embassy’s initiative, the artists have been enjoying the city’s flavorful fish dishes prepared in mustard sauce” — known as ilish maach.