Durga puja, a spectacular celebration of women’s empowerment, is India’s official nomination for UNESCO’s 2020 list of intangible cultural institutions. The Consulate General Kolkata community marked the beginning of Goddess Durga’s journey towards earth through a colorful afternoon of music, poetry, songs and signature Bengali delicacies. The program culminated with a powerful performance by the American officers and locally employed staff invoking the spirit, grace and fiery strength of the goddess. Dressed in the splendor of traditional red and white sarees, the performance was a classic example of a #USIndiaDosti moment where cultures connect communities.
Video courtesy of the U.S. Consulate in Kolkata