Kalyani Puja Pandal declines 'Durga Ratna' award by Governor, calls for MGNREGA funds release first

The Luminous Kalyani Puja pandal, one of the four pujos nominated for the prestigious 'Durga Ratna' award, has refused the honor. The award, worth Rs 1.25 lakh, was presented by Bengal Governor CV Anand Bose. The pandal organizers have instead called upon the Governor to request the Central government to release MGNREGA funds for 100 days of work for laborers in Bengal, viewing this as a more meaningful reward.

The decision to decline the Durga Ratna award, a symbol of recognition for excellence in puja celebrations, was emphasized to address a critical concern — the timely allocation of MGNREGA funds. The organizers stated that their action was not politically motivated and urged for a focus on the well-being of the laborers.

Arup Mukhopadhyay, a puja organizer, clarified that their request for MGNREGA funds to support Bengal's laborers was their way of acknowledging their true reward. Mukhopadhyay stated, "Governor should tell Delhi to get money for 100 days of work. If the poor people get the money they deserve, I will think we have been rewarded."

The Durga Ratna awards instituted by the Honourable Governor of West Bengal to recognise the most outstanding Durga Pandal, which reflects the essence of Bengaliana, is shared by four Pandals of the state, based on people's choice.