Manipur Violence: Kolkata Artist Expresses Women's Resilience in Durga Idol

KOLKATA: In response to the distressing incident in Manipur, where two women were publicly humiliated during ethnic strife in May, an artist in Kolkata has created a Durga idol that embodies the resilience of everyday women. This unique idol will be featured in a community Durga Puja in Kolkata.

The Durga idol, clad in a simple sari and displaying a determined expression, stands with her head held high. She will lead a procession of both men and women, and her offspring—Lakshmi, Saraswati, Kartik, and Ganesh—will join in support.

The theme of the Arjunpur Amra Sabai club in the Baguiati area, located on the eastern outskirts of Kolkata, is 'Ganadevata'—the deity of the masses.

Sculptor Bhabatosh Sutar, who crafted the idol, shared his motivation behind this creation, saying, "As a sensitive person, I was anguished by the happenings in Manipur, and that pain was reflected while I molded the idol." He went on to explain, "We place women on a pedestal as goddesses and worship them as embodiments of 'Stree Shakti.' Simultaneously, we also subject women to attacks, disrobing, and dishonor. Women often become vulnerable targets during conflicts."

To symbolize the life experiences of women, the texture of the idol will be intentionally rough, departing from the usual smooth finish. In the pandal (temporary temple structure), the goddess' children will be depicted among the people in the rally.

Bhabatosh Sutar has previously used his art to address contemporary social issues, including depicting the journey of migrant workers during the lockdown last year.

Meanwhile, the Tengnoupal district authorities in Manipur have decided to cancel the daily curfew relaxation in the Indo-Myanmar border town of Moreh in Manipur. An order issued by the District Magistrate of Tengnoupal, Krishan Kumar, on Monday cited the likelihood of public gatherings and canceled the curfew relaxation that previously allowed people to purchase essential items, including medicines and food, from 6 am to 5 pm.

Also Read: Manipur: Curfew Relaxation Cancelled in Border Town of Moreh

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