title: aristrocrat household (bonedibari) durga puja Art

the sovabazar rajbari durga puja is arguably the oldest in the city. started by raja nabakrishna deb after the battle of plassey, the familial tribute to the goddess has continued over the centuries unabated through thick and thin. several unique customs – like the firing of the canon at the start and end of shandhi puja and the release of an indian blue jay on dashami morning – have been preserved, but with practical and humane modifications. what was once the culture hub of bengal society has now evolved into one of the most popular celebrations for devotees to visit during the puja days. there are two palatial buildings opposite each other inhabited by different branches of the zamindari family, and the younger generations take pride in maintaining their glorious heritage, preserving a taste of the past for visitors to their premises every year.