Pujari celebrates Saraswati Puja 2010

Pujari celebrates Saraswati Puja 2010
By: Aradhana Bhattacharya

Pujari, a well-known multicultural non-profit organization celebrated Saraswati Puja to invoke the blessings of the Goddess of Wisdom and Learning on Jan 23, 2010 at Berkmar High School, Lilburn, GA.
In a demonstration of unity, people of diverse communities regardless of faith, race and ethnicity congregated to pray for

progress through knowledge, peace and communal harmony.
Reflective of this ennobling spirit, the decoration theme for this event integrated a unique fusion of African tribal art and Indian Mehendi patterns. Pujari patrons took this opportunity to re-acquaint with their roots amidst religious ceremonies and cultural programs.

The program commenced with Puja preparations, followed by ‘Puja’,’Anjali’ and ‘Prasad’ distribution. Various activities like ‘Kalakriti’ - art exhibition by kids and Treasure Hunt helped to keep the young members busy and well connected.

The events in the afternoon were marked with ‘Bhog Vitaran’ (lunch) and a cultural extravaganza showcasing local talents. Some of the highlights included ‘Chotoder Gaan’ – Rabindra sangeet by kids, ‘Abol Tabol’ – tiny tots’ act based on Sukumar Roy’s ‘Huku Mukho Hangla, ‘Jhinga Phool’ – kids danced based on modern folk song by the Bangla Band Bhoomi, ‘Muktir Shandhane’ – dance, ‘Babu bibi Sangbad’ – Shruti Natok , ‘Bandhu tomay’ – variety programme. Antakshari. Pujari’s youth Committee (PYC) presented an entertaining youth program called “Nuton Joubaner Doot”.

As a fitting finale, there was a tribute of songs performed by the guest artist, Chandrika Dey (Sejuti), the young prodigy of Indo-Bangladesh community that captivated the hearts of the audience.

The evening concluded with a sumptuous dinner for the Pujari enthusiasts.

Pujari’s President, Sudipta Samanta in his stirring message to all those who attended this function said “Hope you enjoyed the Puja and our hospitality. We have received many positive feedback and comments from our patron to declare 2010 Saraswati Puja a grand success. Thanks much for your continued support and wishes. With that, we like to move on to the next events: - New Member Welcome Pot Luck on 27th February. (RSVP is required for this event) and Holi on 27th March. (RSVP is required for this event). We need your supportive presence in both events. These are the great opportunities to know each other more and to enjoy the colorful event Holi.”

Pujari’s chairperson, Pabitra Bhattacharya extended his heartfelt thanks to all the sponsors for supporting this socio-religious event.
In its efforts to go green, the popular Pujari publication ‘Anjali’ was brought out in the form of CDs.

Apart from the religious aspects of this celebration, ‘Pujari’ sees it as an avenue to provide a multicultural platform to the communities for nurturing mutual understanding amongst peoples from diverse cultures and different countries.

www.pujari.org