Manipal Hospitals Kolkata Honours Durga Puja’s Unsung Creators

Durga Puja, one of the most significant festivals in west Bengal, is already radiating celebratory energy. In recognition of the artists and individuals who contribute to this festival, Manipal Hospitals Kolkata has organized an event titled 'Pujor Rupokar 2.0'. This initiatives showcases artisans from Kumartuli, light artisans from Chandannagar, Dhakis, and representatives from pandal associations, acknowledging their essential role in preserving Bengal's cultural heritage. 

Further, each honoree received a commemorative memento and a ceremonial shawl from the doctors. Among those recognized were Mr. Samar Mitra, Secrertary, and Mr. Debasish Bhattacharjee, working President of Kumartuli Sarbojonin; Mr. Babu Paul, Mrit Shilpi and Assistant Secretary of Kumartuli Mrit Shilpi Sanskriti Samity; national award-winning mrit shilpis Ms. Mala Paul and Ms. Jhulan Paul; Probin Mrit Shilpi Mr. Nemai Paul, and Asian Paints award-winning sculptors Mr. Nabo Paul, Mr. Soumen Paul, and

 Mr. Sanatan Paul, Additionally, Ms, Kakali Paul, Mr, Arup Paul, Mr. Pashpati Rudra Paul, Mr. Sanjay Paul, Mr. Ramit Paul, Mr, Indrajit Paul, Mr, Ranjit Sarkar, Mr. Bankim Paul, Mr. Dipankar Paul, Mr. Bhanu Rudra Pal, Mr. Sujit Pal, Mr. Pradip Dey, Mr. Rudrajit Paul, Mr. Subhas Paul, and Mr. Samir Paul were honored. Representatives from the pandal associations, Mr. Chandra Nath Dey, Secretary, and Mr, Sanu Biswas,, Treasurer, along with Chandra Nath Dey, Secretary, and Mr. Sanu Biswas, Treasurer, along with Chandan Nagar light artisans Mr. Tapan Ghosh, Mr. Sanu Biswas, Treasurer, along with Chandan Nagar light artisans Mr. Tapan Ghosh, Mr. Tapas Ghosh, Me, Ashim Dey, Mr. Dibyendu Biswas, and Mr. Amio Das, were also acknowledged for their commitment and craftmanship. 

Discussing about the event,Dr. Sutanu Hazra, Senior Consultant, Orthopedics, Manipal Hospital Mukundapur, added, “The repetitive movements, prolonged sitting, bending and lifting involved in idol-making can place significant stress on the muscles, joints and spine. Artisans can reduce these risks by maintaining proper posture, changing positions regularly, using appropriate tools and taking short breaks during long work sessions. Early attention to persistent pain can help prevent chronic musculoskeletal problems.”

Furthermore, Dr. Shilpita Banerjee, Consultant - Gynaecology and Obstetrics, Manipal Hospital EM Bypass, utter, “Women artisans often balance demanding physical work with responsibilities at home, which can leave little time for their own health. Menstrual irregularities, anaemia, nutritional deficiencies and other gynaecological concerns should not be ignored or normalised. Regular health check-ups, adequate nutrition, iron-rich foods and timely consultation can help women remain healthy and continue their work with greater wellbeing.”

 “Artisan work can involve long hours, physical exertion and exposure to heat, dust and potentially hazardous materials. During such demanding periods, basic safety precautions, adequate hydration and timely attention to injuries or sudden symptoms are essential. Chest pain, severe breathlessness, fainting, significant injuries or sudden weakness should never be ignored and require immediate medical attention,” said Dr. Indranil Das, Senior Consultant and HOD – Accident and Emergency Care, Manipal Hospital EM Bypass.