175-Year-Old Basanti Puja: From Adversity to Prosperity for Nanda Family

• The 175-year-old Basanti Puja of the Nanda family in Mugberia village, Bhagwanpur-2 block, continues with devotion and rituals.
• Initiated by Bhola Nath Nanda after a hunting accident, the puja marked a turning point, improving the family's social and economic status.
• Once a grand zamindari-era celebration with buffalo sacrifices, Nahabat, and Kolkata Jatra troupes, the puja's scale has reduced but tradition remains.
• Currently, two goats are sacrificed on Navami, and Maa Shitala and Maa Annapurna are also worshipped alongside Basanti Durga.
• The puja unites the Nanda family, with descendants of Bhola Nath Nanda's three sons overseeing the rituals, fostering family bonds and tradition.