Kolkata: Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee said on Tuesday that Bengal has always spread the message of unity in the country and abroad, as she went on inaugurating multiple Durga Pujas across the city.
"Bengal has spread the message of unity in the country and abroad. This is our culture and tradition and we will continue to spread this message in future," she said, while inaugurating the Durga Puja at 75 Palli in Bhowanipore on Tuesday evening.
Banerjee recollected her school days while inaugurating the Durga Puja at Sanghashree. "When we were in school there were three big Pujas in Bhowanipore, namely Sanghashree, Muktidal and Sanghamitra. Sanghashree used to bag Puja prizes. Next year is the club's 75th year and we will celebrate it in a big way," she added.
The Chief Minister also inaugurated the Pujas at Abashar, Golmath, Priyanath Mullick Road, Bakulbagan and Forward Club, all situated close to her residence and under her Assembly constituency. She also inaugurated the Puja at Kidderpore 25 Palli and Kidderpore 74 Palli, lauding the organisers for the pandal and the idols. "With the passage of time, the Pujas in Khidderpore have become very popular and have drawn the attention of the media," she said.
The spate of inaugurations which Banerjee started on September 27, a day before Mahalaya, came to an end on Tuesday evening. She chanted hymns from Chandi and prayed for peace and prosperity of the people. She also advised people to take umbrella along during the Puja days, as untimely rain may hit the city at any time. "The city is in Puja mood now. From tomorrow the offices and educational institutions will be closed and people across all ages will take part in the celebration," she said.