When does faith make sense.
So much sense that it appeals across generations. So much sense that it appeals across multiple religious dispensation. So much sense that it cuts across income groups. And it affects not only a state in the country but a very large swathe of it. It is not only a Bengal thing. It is a phenomenon that needs to be lived through. It is a force that has to be witnessed. It does not demand understanding. It encourages the experience.
Durga Puja. Or rather , as we say it, PUJO.
First and foremost, it makes everyone happy. I am sure there will be some who will contest the sound, the people, the hustle and the bustle. But by everyone I mean almost everyone. The streets are filled with people. And they feel safe enough to come out all day and all night wearing their best. Groups of young boys and girls go around and feel no fear. They laugh. They learn. They assimilate. Elderly people perhaps do so with a lot more restraint but importantly they do it. Everyone eats together. Everybody moves together. There isn’t a pandal which disallows on the basis of faith. There isn’t an eating joint that discriminates. Random people walk into random pujos and pay their respect. They perform in the rituals. They partake of the community feast. Strangers come to the aid of others whenever needed. What could be more inclusive? It is the Mardi Gras. Just a thousand times bigger. The sheer degree of unfettered joy is contagious. An estimated crore plus people hit the streets every day. The metro and train services run practically 24/7. Cab drivers charge much higher but are always there. The cops are there again 24/7 but even they catch the fever that everyone else gets.
The streets are magic. Every where you go, you will be amazed at the sheer outpouring of crazy creativity. Imagine a mega installation festival that elicits amazement. It wows the directors of major art museums. It brings in photographers and recording people in their thousands. Small nooks are turned into canvases. Corners turn into installation works of art. Simple light technicians turn their skill and creativity that impresses the most experienced film light engineer. Many of these are acquired by collectors and humble folks alike.
Does all this make money? The consumption spend is to the tune of some 30-35000 crores INR. That’s a cools 4 billion USD. The overall expenses made for the 5 days that the Pujos are, works out to an amazing 90,000 crore INR. That is 10 billion plus USD. There are many things which don’t get captured in this number. But suffice to say that these 10 billion percolates to the lowest level of society. A genuine give and take. Not the kind where only one gives and the other takes but one where everyone gives and every one takes. And that is why there is a spurt in overall income and of course overall spend. This year I am told the spend is a few percentage points more than last year and I am sure it will a bit higher the next year too. But it all makes sense.
Everyone participates. Everyone feels the joy. And everyone makes money.
Isn’t that what a win-win is supposed to be.
Best wishes to everyone on the festive season and may the Mother’s blessings always be upon us.
