Bhubaneswar: The Rasulgarh Durga Puja Committee in Bhubaneswar is celebrating its 33rd edition of Durga Puja, offering devotees a divine experience of Devbhumi Uttarakhand.
This year, the committee has chosen a gigantic Pandal theme that showcases the serene beauty of Uttarakhand, complete with a hill, lush green trees, paddy fields, and a temple atop which Goddess Durga resides.
The 70-feet-high and 120-feet-wide Pandal is designed to mesmerise visitors, YouTubers, and video makers alike. The theme aims to spread awareness about environmental protection, especially after the hill state faced natural fury. Committee President Prakash Routray emphasises that the theme will sensitise the public and devotees towards ecosystem protection.
To ensure a smooth darshan experience for devotees, the committee has collaborated with the Commissionerate Police and civic body to make extensive arrangements, including deployment of 50 private security guards and hundreds of volunteers, along with police forces. As many as 40 CCTV cameras will be installed in and outside the pandal to monitor any wrongdoers. Five free parking lots will be available to accommodate a large number of vehicles.
The pandal will also feature a Meena Bazaar and different types of slings, providing children with a unique experience. The Rasulgarh Durga Puja Committee has come a long way since its inception in 1992, with its budget growing from Rs 2 lakh to Rs 70 lakh this year. With increasing footfalls of devotees and visitors, the committee is well-prepared to host a grand celebration.