Guwahati: Athgaon Sarvajanik Durga Puja will feature live Ganga aarti every 45 minutes this year, with a team from Kolkata’s Ganga Ghat performing the ritual during the celebrations.A makeshift space has been created within the pandal premises that will be filled with water. The symbolic Ganga aarti will be performed by the edge of that reservoir.The special attraction is intended to add a distinct spiritual dimension to the festivities, allowing devotees to experience the devotional atmosphere associated with Ganga while visiting the pandal.Established in 1983, the puja committee has chosen ‘Swarnagiri’, inspired by Hyderabad’s Sri Venkateswara Swamy Temple, as its central theme this year. The temple-inspired pandal, elaborate lighting and Ganga aarti will be the key attractions for visitors.“The organisers have sought to create an experience that brings together religious devotion, cultural traditions and artistic presentation,” said committee president Pramod Harlalka.The celebrations will begin on Friday evening, coinciding with Maha Shashthi. The live performances will be held every 45 minutes throughout the festivities and are expected to draw devotees and visitors seeking to experience the ritual.The committee has also planned security arrangements, including CCTV surveillance and the deployment of security personnel to ensure that visitors can attend the performances and explore the pandal in a safe and orderly manner.
