Interviewed by: Fatema-Tuj-Johra

Written by: Eshan Maitra
In my childhood, Monosha or Kali puja was not arranged at our house. But, Saraswati puja was celebrated each year. Father always allowed it. Since, Saraswati is the goddess of knowledge & culture. The celebration led to encouragement of these practice. We always celebrated it with much pleasure. Durga pujas were arranged at other houses. I was able to celebrate the joy of Durga puja with more people. This attracted me the most. During Durga puja, we enjoyed the cultural competitions the most. Such as, singing & dancing contests. My child hood-self cherished these events. It never occurred to me a part of religious practice. Rather a cultural festival. I remember, when we were children, Kurbani Eid was not that eventful or festive. It was mostly due to, there only few Muslim families in the village. Back then, they were very poor. At most, they sacrificed a lamb together. Now, their number surpassed the Hindu head-counts. Now they are financially wholesome, and every house sacrifices Cows each year.