Kolkata roads get a splash of colour, traditional ‘alpona’ ahead of Durga Puja

Kolkata's roads are being adorned with a spectrum of colors, ranging from red, pink, yellow, and orange, as the newly formed BJP government in West Bengal launches its first Durga Puja celebrations. The capital city is transforming into a vibrant rainbow, with busy intersections and bridges, such as Park Circus Crossing, Gariahat bridge, and Garia More junction, adorned with floral motifs and artistic designs.

Cabinet Minister Agnimitra Paul, who oversees Urban Development and Municipal Affairs, has been seen making alpona, a traditional art form involving the painting of floors and walls using rice flour, at the Park Circus Crossing. He expressed his belief that the artwork represents the road of love and brotherhood, symbolizing the trust people have in the government.

Other areas, including the ghats along the Hooghly River, are also being decorated ahead of the festival. This is the first Durga Puja for the BJP government, and they are going all out to make it grand and colorful. However, the opposition parties, Congress and the Left Front, have criticized the government's beautification drive, accusing them of wasting taxpayers' money on a "drama."