Amit Shah Visits Kolkata Hospital, Meets Durga Puja Pandal Stampede Victims

Sujoy Ghosh fondly recalls his Durga Puja memories in Kolkata, where the excitement led to late nights and early mornings. The aroma of bhog from the neighbourhood puja and the street food available only during the festival still tantalise his taste buds. Despite being away at university in the UK, he fondly remembers gathering friends to watch the festival, capturing the personal touch of Kolkata's puja compared to more traditional temples and community centres.

Ghosh's dream of bringing Durga Puja to the silver screen came true when he filmed *Kahaani* in 2012. With limited resources, they shot in real pandals across the city, capturing the essence of the festival. The climax scene, featuring pregnant Vidya Balan, was shot in one lengthy take, showcasing the intense dedication and joy of the shoot. The film's immersion scene, where the idol was carried away, left a lasting impact on Ghosh, with organisers visibly moved by the experience.

Reflecting on other Durga Puja-centric Bengali films like *Joi Baba Felunath* and *Utsab*, Ghosh admits that he would consider another Durga Puja movie, but only if a compelling story presents itself.