Dhanbad: With Durga Puja just days away, preparations have gathered pace across Dhanbad, where organisers are putting the finishing touches on a range of theme-based pandals inspired by mythology, heritage, culture and environmental conservation.At Bhuli D Block, the puja committee has chosen Kalchakra as its theme. The 55-ft-wide and 45-ft-high structure is being built using bamboo, iron frames, fibre and plywood, and will feature giant owl installations and a central fairy-like figure.Devotees visiting the Renguni pandal will get a glimpse of Vrindavan’s famed Prem Mandir, complete with depictions of Radha and Krishna’s divine love. In Manaitand, organisers are recreating Ashok Vatika from the Ramayana, with scenes showing Sita in captivity and Hanuman paying obeisance before her.Environmental awareness will take centre stage at Lakshmi Narayan Vidya Mandir in Dhansar, where nearly one lakh plants are being used to create an eco-friendly pandal carrying a message of conservation.On the other hand, Hirapur’s puja committee is constructing a replica of Delhi’s Lotus Temple with the help of artisans from Jamtara. The 55-ft-high structure is being built using bamboo, wood and iron. Artisans from Jamtara district have been brought in for the project. According to committee president Sanjay Kumar, “The 55-foot-high structure will be made using bamboo, wooden beams and iron.”At Chauthai Kulhi in Jharia, a 70-foot-long and 60-foot-wide pandal will showcase Rajasthani culture. Dozens of artisans from Asansol are working day and night on the structure.New Station Railway Colony is preparing an unusual pandal featuring an interior decorated with nearly 1.5 lakh golgappa/pani-puri shells, while its exterior will depict tribal culture and traditions.The diverse themes have generated considerable excitement among residents. Shilpi Kumari of Hirapur said, “I am particularly eager to visit the pandals based on innovative and unusual concepts.”
