Mizoram celebrates 102nd year of Durga Puja

Aizawl, Sep 29 (UNI) In this predominantly Christian state, a small Hindu community celebrates its 102nd year of Durga Puja this year.

Although Christianity has brought about a near total transformation in Mizo lifestyle and culture, Durga Puja is still celebrated with great devotion every year. The festival is organised by the Hindustan Club with the participation of the local people since 1904.

''Conceding that the activities of the Hindustan Club have been low key over the years, regular celebrations of Durga Puja for over 100 years by a miniscule Hindu minority community in the state is quite historic,'' Hindustan Club President P Chakraborty told UNI.

''Our puja celebrations may lack the usual pomp and splendour of the pujas held in big cities and towns in other states but our puja is observed traditionally and religiously,'' he added.

Recalling the club's history, Mr Chakraborty, who is also the state law secretary, said it was in 1904 that four civilian employees of the Assam Rifles observed Durga Puja for the first time in their complex along with some of the believers here. Inspired by the occasion, it was then decided to form a club to carry on the puja in the years to come. The celebration however, did not remain confined only among the Hindus in the small town.

''I do not see anything wrong with Christians participating in Hindu religious functions'' said Mizoram Congress Party president John Lalsangzuala, who has been participating in the celebrations since 1975.

"During this period, a number of Christians used to participate in Durga Puja celebrations and I was one of them", he added.

Mr John, who also served as cabinet minister in the Mizoram government for a number of terms, pointed out that in a diverse and colourful country like India, it is very essential that people from all the communities have a mutual understanding. "It is high time for everyone to reach out, care and share with others and realise that we are all God's children", he said.

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