Saraswati Pujo(the worship of the Goddess of Learning) always beings back fond memories of childhood. Pujo in the morning at home. Waking up really early, to help in the Pujo preps. Donning a yellow saree, which was kept in place by a multitude of safety pins, and often paired with a blouse, which was not our size(read: a few sizes always bigger). And yes, being officially off from lessons. Who can forget that.
Even after so many years, Saraswati Pujo kindles the same kind of excitement, although I am miles away from my homeland. Some routines never change for Bongs, no matter which part of the world they are in.
So a new crisp saree, an early morning shower,and we were off for Pujo. The highlight of this year's Pujo, was the young priest. In a bid to involve the youngsters, it had been decided, to have the Pujo performed, by young Rishi, though under strict supervision. Donned in yellow, Rishi left us all enthralled. We had reached just in time, when all the ceremonies began.
With Pujo, comes the quintessential adda.
A few quick pictures for the family album ! Must say, Mashi was quite the head turner, despite, slogging at the kitchen since 5 am, to ensure all the Bhog was ready.
Then there was the call for Pushpanjali !
Then Prasad and Bhog !! I was so hungry by that time, that I forgot to take pictures. Khichuri, Bandha Kopir Tarkari, Luchi, Aloor Dom, papad, Chatni, Beguni and Payesh. And yes, Roshogolla. All from Mashi's kitchen. Everyone was lining up for second and third helping. Needless to say, Bhog was a super success.
Then it was time for the Kiddos to take the stage. They had us laughing, clapping and shouting out in glee.
There were those, who wanted to run away from stage, despite the efforts of their older siblings or mommies.
There were the seasoned performers !
And there were those who had the crowd shouting for an encore !!
By the time, the day rolled to an end, we were all saying, "Aschhe Bochhor Abar Hobe !"
A few quick pictures for the family album ! Must say, Mashi was quite the head turner, despite, slogging at the kitchen since 5 am, to ensure all the Bhog was ready.
Then there was the call for Pushpanjali !
Then Prasad and Bhog !! I was so hungry by that time, that I forgot to take pictures. Khichuri, Bandha Kopir Tarkari, Luchi, Aloor Dom, papad, Chatni, Beguni and Payesh. And yes, Roshogolla. All from Mashi's kitchen. Everyone was lining up for second and third helping. Needless to say, Bhog was a super success.
Then it was time for the Kiddos to take the stage. They had us laughing, clapping and shouting out in glee.
There were those, who wanted to run away from stage, despite the efforts of their older siblings or mommies.
There were the seasoned performers !
And there were those who had the crowd shouting for an encore !!
By the time, the day rolled to an end, we were all saying, "Aschhe Bochhor Abar Hobe !"
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