Bhubaneswar: Well folks here is a chance for you to revisit the famed Hastinapur Palace of the Kauravas as depicted in BR Chopra’s popular television serial Mahabharat.
In a remarkable display of devotion and craftsmanship, the Bomikhal Durga Puja pandal in Bhubaneswar has brought to life the iconic Hastinapur Palace from the legendary television series Mahabharat, produced by BR Chopra. This eye-catching pandal, adorned in brick red and yellow hues, emulates the grandeur of the palace featured in the popular TV show.
“We entered the 60th year of celebration this year. We have been organising the puja since 1963. Like every year we have done something that stands out. Every year, we strive to create something exceptional, and this time, we’ve transported Hastinapur Palace to Bhubaneswar. It is 120-feet wide and 80-feet high,” said Bunty Jena, vice-president Bomikhal Puja Samiti.
Jena said that they have a total budget of Rs 50 lakh for this year’s Durga Puja celebrations.
A team of 40 craftsmen from West Bengal have slogged for nearly two months to build the massive structure, he added.
A six member team of sculptors from Cuttack led by Sitan Behera have sculpted 10-feet high idol of goddess Durga and her entourage.
Similarly, 12 artisans have made the made the 18-feet high tableaux.
Jena informed that the Puja Samiti has made arrangements for serving of the special ‘Khichdi prasad’ to devotees two times a day during the festival.
He said that 30 CCTV cameras, 100 volunteers apart from police will ensure a safe darshan for devotees visiting the pandal.
Visitors to the pandal have been awe-struck by the beauty of the replication. Rashmita Behera, a spectator from Cuttack, remarked, “We are enjoying the experience. The pandal is very beautiful. While Cuttack is known for its Durga Puja celebrations, Bhubaneswar is making its mark.”
This stunning recreation of the Hastinapur Palace serves as a testament to the unwavering dedication of the Bomikhal Puja Samiti and its commitment to preserving cultural traditions while embracing creativity and innovation.
