The Birth of Durga Puja: A Short Tale of War, Wealth, and Celebration.

 

Every autumn, Bengal comes alive with the vibrant energy of Durga Puja, the most important festival for Bengali Hindus. It's not just a religious event; it's a lively celebration of Bengali culture, bringing people together in joy and marking the victory of good over evil. The tradition of autumnal worship, or 'Akal Bodhan'(about Akal bodhan) , was popularized by Lord Rama, who invoked the goddess before his battle with Ravana(demon king). Over centuries, this practice evolved and became an integral part of Bengali culture, particularly flourishing during the British colonial period when affluent zamindars (landlords) initiated elaborate community pujas. Durga Puja, a vibrant festival celebrated in Bengal, India, boasts a rich history intertwined with power, wealth, and a touch of controversy. Let's delve into the fascinating story of how this iconic celebration came to be.

The Rise of Raja Nabakrishna Deb

In the year 1757, a battle changed Bengal's history forever. The British East India Company defeated Nawab Siraj-ud-Daulah at Plassey (about the battle of plassey). In the midst of this upheaval, a man named Raja Nabakrishna Deb rose to power. He started as a simple clerk to Governor Drake (wikipedia), eventually becoming a favorite of Robert Clive and a key ally of the British.

Nabakrishna's story is more than just about getting rich. He cleverly mixed politics and culture to create a beloved Bengali tradition - the grand Durga Puja festival. This article explores Nabakrishna Deb's fascinating journey, the British role in Bengal's fortunes, and how a victory party turned into a vibrant Kolkata festival that's still celebrated today.

Celebration to Beloved Festival: The Curious Birth of Durga Puja.

Nabakrishna, now a wealthy landowner, for siding with the British, Nabakrishna received the title 'Raja Bahadur'(brave king); later, in 1766, he became 'Maharaja Bahadur'(braviest king of kings). The most significant part is that he became the talukdar(landholder) of the entire Sutanuti region(a village adjacent to the capital of Kolkata of the British Empire). From a humble clerk to the owner of a vast empire and wealth—such was the remarkable rise of Raja Nabakrishna Deb. Craved social recognition. Capitalizing on the opportunity, Robert Clive, a prominent British official, persuaded him to organize a grand celebration in Kolkata. Here's where the story takes a unique turn. In the book "The Corporation That Changed the World: How the East India Company Shaped the Modern Multinational," author Nick Robins wrote that after Siraj's downfall, Nabakrishna helped the British loot Bengal's treasury. Overnight, they shared "gold, silver, and jewelry worth 8 billion rupees" among themselves.

In an article titled ‘Clive’s Durgotsav’ published in the 'Rabibasariya' section(sunday special article/ story section of the newspaper) of Kolkata's Anandabazar Patrika on October 5, 1997, writer Nirmal Kar mentioned: "Nabakrishna Deb was a servant of the British. At one time, he was Warren Hastings' private tutor. He advanced to become a talukdar and a four-thousand-man subadar. Among those who were most delighted by Siraj's downfall at Plassey were Krishnachandra of Nadia and Nabakrishna Deb of Kolkata.

Robert Clive, aware of Bengali Hindu sentiments, understood that Nabakrishna, with his enormous wealth, now sought some honor. Clive persuaded Nabakrishna to organize a victory celebration in Kolkata, claiming it was to protect 'Hindu sentiments'. Traditionally, autumn was the time for worshipping Navapatrika (nine sacred plants). Nabakrishna, with Clive's backing, innovated by combining elements of the spring Basanti Puja and the autumnal worship.

Gradually, a single-structure idol was created. The idol was adorned with gold jewelry. Twenty-six gold flowers were placed in Durga's hair. She wore thirty nose rings and a golden crown. After the cannon fired, the Sandhi Puja(about sandhi puja) began. The daily offering included 23 maunds of rice. Along with the British officers and their wives, even Warren Hastings came on an elephant to that Puja. Clive donated 101 rupees. The British enjoyed the performances of dancers and other entertainments. The Wilson Hotel of calcutta offers a large selection of meats and unlimited drinks. Even, rumors spread that Raja Nabakrishna Deb's parties were famous, not just for the lavish food, but also for the entertainment. Guests talked about the most talented nautch girls in Calcutta performing at his gatherings; name Rajni Bai, also known as Joba, being a special highlight.

Unique Insights: The Transformation of Durga Puja

The nightlong song and dance performances at the decorated 'nachghar'(dance room) became very popular. Famous Hindustani classical singers, musicians, and the well-known 'Baijis'(courtesans who can dance) entertained guests at the night-time "Majlish."(A whole night celebration which include music and dance).Important men from the British East India Company and other notable Englishmen attended, enjoying the best food and wine available in the region. This tradition continued for years with the same enthusiasm. The British were so involved in this Puja that common people began calling it "Companir Pujo," meaning "The Puja of the East India Company." This was exactly what Nabakrishna wanted, to use the Puja to show his closeness to the British, and he succeeded completely.

An intriguing aspect of Nabakrishna Deb's Durga Puja was its role in shaping social dynamics. The Puja became a platform for cultural exchange between the British and Bengalis. It wasn't just a religious festival but a social event where art, music, and cuisine played significant roles. British officials and Indian elites mingled, leading to a unique blend of cultures.

Moreover, Nabakrishna’s initiative marked the beginning of public Durga Pujas in Kolkata, transitioning from private family celebrations to community-wide events. These changes laid the foundation for the grand pandals (a temporary decorated shed) and elaborate celebrations we see today, making Durga Puja an integral part of Kolkata's cultural identity.While historical records mention Nabakrishna's role in organizing the first large-scale Durga Puja, there's limited information about the specific rituals and traditions practiced. Here's where we can delve deeper.

• Unearthing Rituals: Further research could explore the specific rituals performed during Nabakrishna's Durga Puja. Did they incorporate elements from both spring and autumnal pujas, or were there unique practices specific to this event?

•   Local Perspectives: Local historians or community leaders might offer insights into how the first public Durga Puja was perceived by the general population. Was it seen purely as a celebration, or were there underlying tensions due to British involvement?

References

• https://esgeemusings.com/tag/nabakrishna-deb/
  
• https://sagar-sen.blogspot.com/2016/10/durgapujo-of-shovabazar-rajbari-history.html