Following the viral video showcasing a Durga Puja pandal embellished with Puchkas in Calcutta, there has been a wave of astonishment sparked by this unique concept. From Puchkas to Dona plates, and even traditional rolling pins adorning the premises, this pandal has become the centre of attention, seamlessly integrating the renowned street food into the state’s cherished festival.
To explore this further, this delectable and enticing pandal has been meticulously crafted by Behala Nutan Dol, a widely celebrated social club known for its splendid Maa Durga idol displays at their pandals. This year, they have unveiled an expansive and exquisitely designed pandal. The central theme of this year’s puja decorations revolves around a delectable delight – Puchka/ Phuchka/ Fuchka! Benjamin and Martina, a pair of Dutch violinists who journeyed from the Netherlands, have dedicated one and a half months of their time to collaborate with their theme artist, Ayan Saha, in bringing this extraordinary concept to life.
In the wake of Bengal’s Durga Puja being acknowledged and honored by UNESCO last year, the magnificence of this festival has reached new heights in Bengal. Behala Nutan Dol is no exception to this grandeur. While Bengalis don’t eat Phuchka daily, the satisfaction it provides is beyond imagination.
The theme this year, aptly named ‘Satisfaction,’ explores the concept of the food we consume to satiate our cravings. In the pandals, a mesmerising display of Phuchkas in various sizes and artistic forms, crafted from bamboo, wood, and tin, and adorned with different coloured fabrics, leaves visitors in awe.
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The Phuchkas themselves are entirely authentic, devoid of any artificial additives. They source sacks of these delectable delights from the market and, within their clubhouse, a team of skilled cooks diligently fry them in vast pans. To maintain their structural integrity, a unique chemical application is employed within the pandal. As artist Ayan Saha explains, “Golgappa, in its natural form, has a limited shelf life. To address this issue, we’ve introduced a chemical component, preserving its essence while enhancing its durability.”
Meanwhile, Benjamin and Martina, hailing from the Netherlands, couldn’t resist trying Phuchka upon their arrival in Kolkata. They’ve wholeheartedly embraced the city’s vibrant atmosphere, relishing the Bengali cuisine and immersing themselves in the camaraderie of the club members.
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