Mumbai, 10th October, 2016: Maitree Cultural Association on 6th October, 2016 successfully inaugurated the 3rd edition of Sarbojonin Durgotsav at Swagat Part, Malad (W). The first day of Sarbojanin Durgotsav witnessed a good number visitors and also, was visited by some prominent entrepreneurs and committee members.
The Guests of Honour were 20 special children from Astitva School, a school dedicated to rehabilitation of mentally challenged and hearing impaired kids.
The ceremonial lamp was lit by the Trustee of Astitva Trust. RadhikaGupte. She was joined by renowned names like JD Majethia (of Khichdi: The Movie fame), Prinal Singh Oberoi (Maharani Charulata of the TV serial Ashoka the Great), RomitRaaz (from ChaltiKaNaamGadi) and Shymashis Bhattacharya (President, Maitree Cultural Association). The lilting sounds of conches and the mesmerizing beats of dhaak filled the air; the children from Astitva School stood in front of the beautiful idol and the lamp was lit to bring in an auspicious and joyous start to the 6-day festival.
This was also the cue for Anandamela, the authentic Bengali food pop-up, to be flagged off. Sumptuous finger food from home chefs were devoured by one and all. Anandamela will be held across all six days of Durgotsav.
“I have been visiting the SarbajaninDurgotsav since its very first year and being here amidst the surroundings reminds me of my growing years. The warmth that I find here is often missing elsewhere. This year was even special as witnessing the talent of these special kids was a delight.” said celebrity director and producer AnuragBasu, who was the special invitee to the inaugural ceremony.
JD Majethia, the renowned comedy actor quoted, “It feels great to be a part of such a wonderful event where today’s generation can connect to the folk and traditional culture. I congratulate Maitree Association for supporting a noble cause which encourages the special kids and gives them a platform to showcase their talent. ”
Speaking on the occasion committee member, Maitree Cultural Assocation, Mr. SubhankarDutt said, “With great pleasure and dignity, we our happy to announce the beginning of the 3rd edition of SarbojoninDurgotsav. The core idea of the Utsav is to keep the traditional charm of the Durgapooja alive and support the causes through the donations earned. Keeping the spiritual spirits high, this year we have also taken an initiative to spread awareness about the recently widespread disease, dengue. On receiving affirmative responses from the masses in our previous editions, we are looking forward to see more enthusiastic visitors in the coming days.”
The children of Astitva School shoved the mandap performance stage in all their finery and danced wonderfully to Devi Vandana. This was followed by a vibrant Koli dance, holding their jam-packed audience mesmerized. All the performers were felicitated on stage by the dignitaries. The stage was then handed over to the talented group of people who organized this mega event for them to sing the BhavaniAvahan. A series of Bengali songs followed it.