Chandpur:Final preparations are underway at 232 puja mandaps in eight upazilas of Chandpur district to celebrate Sharadiya Durga Puja, the largest religious festival for the Hindu community. Artisans are busy completing idols, decorating pandals, and installing colorful lights to welcome Goddess Durga in a festive atmosphere.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the district Puja Udjapan Parishad has confirmed that Durga Puja will be celebrated across 232 mandaps, with 41 in Chandpur municipality and Sadar upazila, 23 in Faridganj, six in Haimchar, 29 in Hajiganj, 39 in Matlab South, 36 in Matlab North, 39 in Kachua, and 19 in Shahrasti upazila.
The Kalibari Temple premises in Chandpur town have become a focal point of activity, with artisans crafting idols of Goddess Durga and other deities using straw and clay. Some mandaps are adorned with elaborate lighting and artistic pandals, while others highlight themes of human values and portraits of notable personalities.
Idol maker Jagabandhu Pal shared that he is creating 12 idols this year, but rising jute and clay prices have increased production costs, posing financial challenges. Prabhash Saha, an organizer at Kalibari Temple, mentioned that the idol-making has been ongoing for two months, and special maha prasad will be distributed during the five-day festival.
Organizers anticipate 400,000 to 500,000 visitors at the temple premises. Advocate Binoy Bhushan Majumder, convener of the district Hindu-Buddhist-Christian Oikyo Parishad, stated that measures are in place for peaceful celebrations across all upazilas.
The district administration and law enforcement, led by Superintendent of Police Md Mizanur Rahman, have advised mandap authorities to install CCTV cameras and stay vigilant against rumors. Deputy Commissioner Ahmed Ziaur Rahman emphasized monitoring social media and ensuring cleanliness and security at festival venues.
Sheikh Farid Ahmed Manik, a lawmaker and district BNP president, announced that party leaders and activists would volunteer alongside mandap committees to facilitate smooth celebrations.