NDTV At Badan Chandra Ray Durga Puja Celebration In Kolkata

The Badan Chandra Ray Durga Puja origins can be traced back to the year 1857 when a palatial house was built by Mackintosh and Burn. However, what makes this Puja particularly interesting is its initiation by a local businessman from Ayodhya, Subarna Banik 'Pals,' in 1869. He was honoured with the title of 'Roy' for his philanthropy and support for impoverished families. The Puja started then continues to this day with the exception of just one year in 1946 due to the communal tension in the city but revived a year later after Independence. This year marks the 166th year of Durga Puja at Badan Chandra Ray's house. Badan Chandra Ray's father, Madan Mohan Ray, initiated this Puja.