In Kolkata, Khuti Puja on Eid to Spread Harmony
Little Rimsha Becomes ‘Durga’ as Community Durga Puja Organizes Khuti Puja on Eid-al-Adha
Little Rimsha, a 6-year-old Muslim girl, took on the role of the goddess Durga on Thursday as a community Durga Puja in Kolkata organized a Khuti Puja on the occasion of Eid-al-Adha. This unique event aimed to reinforce the message of communal harmony, particularly during a time when societal divisions along religious lines have become more pronounced.

Rimsha was adorned in traditional red Banarasi attire, adorned with a tiara of flowers and jewelry, as she was worshipped by a group of Hindu and Muslim students and residents of Baranagar, located in north Kolkata.
Khuti Puja: Strengthening Bonds and Marking the End of the Festival
Khuti Puja is an annual ceremony conducted by Durga Puja organizers to symbolize the conclusion of the festival. Typically held on auspicious days like Rath Yatra or Ulta-Rath, this year, the Baranagar Friends Association chose to hold the puja on Eid, aiming to convey a powerful message of communal harmony.
Ajoy Ghosh, the president of the association, expressed their intent behind this decision, stating, “We wanted to demonstrate that Hindus and Muslims can come together and celebrate festivals in unison.”
A Celebration of Unity: Communal Harmony Takes Center Stage
The event witnessed a significant turnout from both Hindu and Muslim communities, who commended the association for taking such a meaningful step.
Mohammed Alam, a resident of Baranagar, voiced his appreciation, saying, “This initiative is commendable as it exemplifies that we can coexist peacefully and harmoniously.”
Aditi Chatterjee, a Hindu resident of the area, echoed similar sentiments, remarking, “This is precisely the message we should be spreading to the world.”
A Ritual of Empowerment: Rimsha Embodies the Goddess

Following the Khuti Puja, a symbolic Kumari Puja took place, during which Rimsha was worshipped as a goddess. This act served as a poignant reminder that people from diverse religious communities can join hands to celebrate festivals and promote communal harmony.
The event left a lasting impression, emphasizing the importance of unity and togetherness, transcending religious boundaries and fostering a sense of harmony among all.
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