Kolkata : With Durga Puja just weeks away, Kolkata is already draped in festivity — pandals rising, artisans racing against time, and neighbourhoods buzzing with anticipation. But far from the glitter and sound, there are sections of the city who rarely feel the season’s warmth. Among them are sex workers, who remain on the periphery of Bengal’s biggest celebration.
This year, Payel Paul Production, in collaboration with Songoti News, decided to change that narrative. On 25th September 2025, they will host Debi Samman — an initiative to honour and include sex workers in the festive spirit by distributing Puja gifts and essentials. The event is not just about charity, but about dignity, recognition, and belonging.
Speaking about the initiative, Payel Paul, Editor of Songoti News and Founder of Payel Paul Production, said:
“Durga Puja is not only about artistry and grandeur. It is about humanity. Debi Samman is our attempt to bring a smile to those who are usually left out of the celebrations. We believe the spirit of the Goddess lives in every woman, and it is our duty to honour that.”
The initiative has drawn wide support. The Marlin Group, internationally acclaimed cartoonist Uday Shankar Ganguly, educationist Suparna Ray, astrologer Arun Boral, danseuse Atasi Biswas, and social activists Biswanath Paul and Anima Paul have all come forward to make Debi Samman 2025 a reality.
In a city where Durga Puja is increasingly seen through the lens of glamour and competition, Debi Samman offers a refreshing reminder of empathy and inclusion. It underscores the idea that festivals are not complete unless joy is shared across all sections of society.
As Payel Paul put it:
“Without compassion, Puja is incomplete. Debi Samman is a reminder that inclusion is the truest form of celebration.”
With its quiet but powerful message, Debi Samman 2025, scheduled for 25th September, may well evolve into a tradition that redefines what it means to celebrate Durga Puja in Kolkata.
.jpeg)
.jpg)
.jpeg)
No comments:
Post a Comment