Kolkata, 24th March, 2025: In a groundbreaking cultural event, the Bengali Sanskriti Club, in partnership with Heritage Bengal Global, has achieved a historic first by unveiling the Durga idol at the Queensgate Shopping Centre in Peterborough, United Kingdom. This event, which takes place as part of the Heritage Bengal Global’s Lalbaba Rice Thames Durga Parade, was commissioned by the students of Techno India University, Kolkata. It marks the first-ever installation of a Hindu idol in the town centre of Peterborough and, indeed, in any town or city across the UK. Present at the inauguration were Gillian Beasley – ex Chief of Pbo City Council/ Lawyer/ Trustee/Director of Peterboro Champions Alliance, Sarah Haythornwaite – Director of Peterborough Presents, art & culture body, Rajni Reddy – Vice President of Bharat Hindu Samaj, President of Pbo Telegu Sangam, Founder of Pbo Diwali Festival, Anokhi Events & Sangam Cooperative, Ruth Campbell – Director of national art organisation METAL and Verity Swanson Wigmore – Operations Head of Queensgate.
The Durga Darshan exhibition, as it is called, aims to raise awareness of Kolkata’s iconic Durga Puja, showcasing the vibrant cultural heritage of Bengal to a global audience. The month-long exhibition not only introduces the rich traditions of Durga Puja but also positions it as a significant global tourism attraction. The unveiling ceremony on 23rd March, 2025, will feature cultural performances, music, crafts, and refreshments, creating an inclusive celebration that will engage visitors from all walks of life.
A Cultural Milestone for the UK
The unveiling of the Durga idol is more than just a religious event; it symbolizes cultural unity, religious harmony, and the diversity of the Indian diaspora in the UK. The presence of the Durga idol at the Queensgate Shopping Centre signifies the recognition of Bengali heritage and the growing prominence of Durga Puja as a UNESCO-recognized cultural tradition.
“It’s a dream come true, the response from the Peterborough authorities has been fantastic. We are proud to see a Durga idol displayed here for the first time ever in the UK, and we are grateful for the support of our local community,” said Ms. Anameeka Ghossh, Founder, Bengali Sanskriti Club, Peterborough.
Celebrating the Durga Puja Tradition
“Kolkata’s Durga Puja, is not just a religious celebration but also the biggest outdoor art festival in the world. Durga Puja is a cultural melting pot, and its potential to attract foreign tourists is immense. Through this initiative, we hope to raise awareness and showcase the Lalbaba Rice Thames Durga Parade to a global audience,” said Mr Anirban Mukhopadhyay, Founder of Heritage Bengal Global.
“The Durga idol, made from biodegradable materials, was commissioned by Techno India University and is a testament to the university’s commitment to sustainable art and culture. I extend my gratitude for the opportunity to showcase the idol in such a prominent global space. We are incredibly happy and proud that the idol created by our students is being displayed as a piece of art, reflecting the deep bond between the UK and India,” said Prof. Manoshi Roychowdhury, Co-Chairperson of Techno India Group.
Support from the Bengali Business Community
“The Lalbaba Rice Thames Durga Parade, which has garnered significant support from West Bengal-based businesses, has become a symbol of Bengal’s cultural and economic identity on the global stage. The Lalbaba Rice Thames Durga Parade is a unique event in the global calendar, and the installation of the Durga idol in Peterborough will help bring this cultural event into the global spotlight,” said Mr Partha Sarathi Nandy and Mr Palash Nandy, Promoters and Directors, Lalbaba Rice.
International Women’s Day Celebration: Emphasizing Shakti
The unveiling of the Durga idol will align with International Women’s Day celebrations, emphasizing the core philosophy of Durga Puja: Shakti—the power of women. The event will highlight the significance of women in the Durga Puja festival, with performances and speeches that honor female empowerment.
A Unique Cultural Showcase
The Queensgate Shopping Centre has played a key role in bringing this cultural showcase to life. A representative from the Centre remarked, “We are delighted to host this remarkable installation that not only celebrates the artistic and cultural legacy of Bengal but also resonates with the themes of strength, community, and inclusivity. Showcasing the Durga Idol in this space allows thousands of visitors to engage with a global tradition that holds deep meaning for many.”
The installation is also part of a broader cultural showcase, allowing visitors to learn about the traditions of Durga Puja, its artistic grandeur, and its role in fostering community spirit and inclusivity.
