Writer-Director Sujoy Ghosh Shares Durga Puja Memories, Recalls Filming ‘Kahaani’ In A Real Pandal In Kolkata
Sujoy Ghosh’s memories of Durga Puja are rooted in Kolkata and sleepless nights. “Usually, we went to bed early, so we could be up in time for school the next morning. But during these five days, we had the licence to stay up all night, hopping from one pandal to the next,” he reminisces. The smell of bhog (prasad) from the parar (neighbourhood) puja —khichdi with peas and big potatoes—still…
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.
Written by urgent.news from Free Press Journal's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
