Bhubaneswar, Oct 2: "Mother is always a mother"-this universal truth is beautifully reflected in the spirit of Durga Puja, where the divine Mother Durga transcends all barriers, bringing people together regardless of caste, creed, or religion. In Odisha, especially in various localities, the Durga Puja celebrations have long crossed the boundaries of religious divides, uniting people in a collective devotion to the goddess.

In a shining example of communal harmony, the Durga Puja celebration at the Chandrasekharpur District Center in Bhubaneswar has taken a unique approach. The committee has emphasized Hindu-Muslim unity through a special participation from the Muslim community. A Muslim individual has made a notable contribution to the Durga Puja rituals, continuing the tradition of the Shahjahan Sheikh family, who have been integral to the celebration.

The Kalash (holy water pot) used in the puja comes from Shahjahan Sheikh's home, enriching the tradition of the pandal with its deep-rooted significance. This gesture not only strengthens the puja’s spiritual value but also reflects a larger sentiment of unity and brotherhood among diverse communities.

Shahjahan Sheikh, a key figure in the celebration, recalls how, during a community meeting, he suggested the idea of holding Durga Puja, which was warmly welcomed by everyone. “We discussed how we could all come together to celebrate, and since then, every year, we bring a holy Kalash from my home before the puja begins. Today, this tradition continues,” he shares with pride.

The puja pandal has become a beacon of unity, drawing people from different religious backgrounds under one roof to worship the same divine entity. 
According to the committee president, Damodar Pradhan, the seamless coordination between different members, including General Secretary Saroj Kant Mallik, has ensured the smooth running of the celebrations, bringing a sense of togetherness to the community.

Saroj Kant Mallik, the General Secretary, credits Shahjahan Sheikh for introducing this inclusive mindset to the Chandrasekharpur Durga Puja, having witnessed similar communal harmony during his time in Cuttack. He mentions, "From 2008, we have seen this same spirit of brotherhood in our Durga Puja celebrations here in Chandrasekharpur. This message of unity continues to inspire future generations."

The Durga Puja at Chandrasekharpur is more than just a religious event; it has become a shining example of how festivals can break down communal barriers and promote mutual respect and peace. This year’s celebrations serve as a reminder of the power of unity and the importance of fostering goodwill among all communities.