“73 Years of Tradition: The Kojagori Lakshmi Puja of Kulchanda Village”
Reported by Lutub Ali
Kulchanda village in East Burdwan’s Bhatar block is bathed in the light of new awakening every year on the night of Kojagori Purnima. From dawn till late at night, the village streets resonate with the sound of conch shells, uludhwani, the fragrance of incense sticks, and the melody of devotion. This is the day when the Koyar family’s traditional Kojagori Lakshmi Puja is celebrated, a tradition that has crossed 73 years.
This puja is not just a religious ceremony but a living symbol of family tradition and social unity. For generations, the three Koyar brothers have been carrying forward this legacy with dedication, devotion, and pride. Madhusudan Koyar, a family member, says, “In our puja, we worship Goddess Lakshmi alongside Baba Narayan Dev. It’s not just a puja; it’s our family history, spiritual bond, and the continuation of our ancestors’ blessings.”
The day begins with the invocation of the goddess and various rituals. The Koyar family’s courtyard transforms into a spiritual pilgrimage site, filled with incense, lamps, flowers, and the chanting of mantras. The villagers gather beyond their family boundaries to participate in this devotional celebration.
On the night of the idol immersion, the distribution of bhog and prasad takes place, and the village comes together in a celebration of unity and harmony. The puja transcends religious boundaries and becomes a symbol of social harmony and human unity.
Local elders say that the Koyar family’s puja has been a source of pride for Kulchanda village for over seven decades. Despite the changing times, the tradition remains vibrant and alive. This 73-year legacy is not just a family’s history; it’s a testament to the village’s rich cultural heritage, proving that traditions never fade away; instead, they shine brighter with time.
Where there is devotion, tradition is immortal; where there is unity, society is enlightened.
