Virginia: The Northern Virginia Bengali Association (NVBA) resounded with joy and fervour as they celebrated the much-anticipated Durga Puja at Park View High School in Sterling, Virginia over three days. This annual event, cherished by the Bengali community in Virginia, is a grand spectacle of tradition, culture, and togetherness.
The heart of the celebration was the worship area, where an intricately crafted idol of Goddess Durga and her divine children took centre stage. Adorned with traditional decor, the rituals, led by dedicated priests and volunteers, serve as a spiritual and cultural anchor for attendees.
However, the festivities extend well beyond the spiritual realm. In the auditorium, there was a vibrant display of local talents as they showcased their cultural programs. The evenings, though, are illuminated by the performances of international Bengali artists, who took the stage on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday. Their captivating acts left the audience enchanted and delighted.
As the day unfolded, the cafeteria became a hub of activity, filled with the laughter and conversations of people reconnecting with friends and family. Amid this warm atmosphere, attendees savour a rich array of traditional delicacies.
The meals were prepared by dedicated community members in a public kitchen. The sheer scale of this effort is awe-inspiring, as they manage to serve over 5,000 meals throughout the two-and-a-half-day program.
If we talk about the budget, Debika Das, Treasurer of NVBA told NewsMobile that the budget for the celebrations is kept between $100,000-$150,000.
For those in search of souvenirs or traditional attire, stalls were set up offering a delightful selection of clothing, jewellery, and trinkets. These treasures are more than just material possessions; they are keepsakes of a vibrant and cultural celebration.
As the celebrations at Park View High School drew to a close, it was evident that Durga Puja wasn’t merely a festival but a reaffirmation of identity and a showcase of the enduring spirit of the Bengali community in Virginia.