Administrator
19 October 2026
*Artist Ramesh Thakur painting on West Bengal puja pandal stampede at the Durga Puja pandal
As West Bengal mourns lives lost in the Chorbagan Durga Puja stampede in Kolkata, an artist in neighbouring Jharkhand has transformed a festive space into a reminder of grief, solidarity and the responsibility to protect every life.
When Art Gives Grief a Voice
At the Bengali Welfare Society’s Durga Puja pandal in Park Market, Dhanbad, artist Ramesh Thakur has painted a poignant tribute to the victims of the tragedy. His artwork portrays Maa Durga, a symbol of strength, protection and the triumph of good over evil, with a solemn expression, alongside a map of West Bengal.
Displayed amid the celebrations, the painting brings the suffering of grieving families into a space otherwise associated with devotion and festivity. It is an acknowledgement that a community’s celebrations cannot be entirely separated from the pain experienced beyond its boundaries.
Faith Must Walk with Responsibility
Thakur emphasised that Durga Puja should continue to be celebrated, while devotees remain sensitive to those affected by the tragedy. Festivals, he said, should unite people and encourage compassion towards families in mourning.
The incident has also prompted local authorities and Puja committees to review safety arrangements. Bengali Welfare Society president Gopal Bhattacharya said the committee had widened the pandal’s entrance by removing part of the boundary wall. The measure is intended to improve crowd movement, facilitate evacuation during emergencies and allow fire engines and other emergency vehicles easier access.
Dhanbad Senior Superintendent of Police Prabhat Kumar directed officials to remain vigilant at all pandals, enforce security arrangements and maintain law and order. He warned that negligence or laxity would invite serious action.
Let Remembrance Lead to Prevention
The painting honours those lost, but its message extends beyond remembrance. Public gatherings require thoughtful planning, accessible exits, effective crowd management and emergency services that can respond without obstruction.
Devotion finds deeper meaning when it is accompanied by responsibility. The most fitting tribute to lives lost is not only to remember them with compassion, but to ensure that every possible precaution is taken to prevent another such tragedy.
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