Puranigudam, a attractive town in Assam’s Nagaon district, is renowned for its unique Durga Puja celebration, centered around a wooden idol of Goddess Durga. This tradition, which has been preserved for over a century, distinguishes Puranigudam from other regions where clay idols are customary.
Historical Background
The most notable in Puranigudam is a statue of Durga Devi, made from Bael wood. As the folklore goes, more than a century ago, the Durga Puja or, worship of Durga, was celebrated every year in the area and a folk-artist (Lerela Khanikar) used to make the statue of the goddess with mud. After the celebration was over after four days, according to the ritual, the statue was immersed into the river. This made the artist very sad, and so he made the permanent statue with the Bael wood, which would not be immersed after the celebration was over, but a symbol of the statue (a banana tree) would only be immersed. The statue would be used next year again after re-painting. The same statue is still being used for the yearly celebrations, and few years back the statue had crossed 100 years. The inception of the wooden Durga idol dates back to 1901, credited to a local artisan named Lekhadhar Sarma, affectionately known as “Lerela Khanikar.” Initially, Sarma crafted clay idols for the annual Durga Puja celebrations. However, witnessing the ephemeral nature of these creations, which were immersed in the river post-festivities, he aspired to create a more enduring representation of the deity. This led him to carve an idol from the wood of the Bael tree (Aegle marmelos), known for its durability and sacred significance in Hinduism.
The Wooden Idol
The wooden idol of Goddess Durga in Puranigudam stands as a testament to traditional craftsmanship. Carved meticulously from Bael wood, the idol showcases intricate details that capture the divine essence of the goddess. Unlike conventional practices where idols are immersed after the puja, this wooden idol is preserved and reused annually. Each year, it undergoes repainting and is adorned with new traditional Assamese attire, often donated by devotees. This practice not only maintains the idol’s sanctity but also strengthens the community’s bond with their cultural heritage.
Cultural Significance
The decision to create a permanent wooden idol was driven by a desire to retain a tangible connection to the divine year after year. This enduring symbol serves as a focal point for devotion, allowing the community to engage deeply with their faith. The idol’s permanence eliminates the need for annual immersion, a practice that often symbolizes the transient nature of life, thereby offering a sense of continuity and stability to the devotees.
Preservation and Maintenance
Maintaining a wooden idol for over a century requires meticulous care. The responsibility of preserving the idol has been passed down through generations of the Sarma family. Currently, Jogen Sharma, the great-grandson of Lerela Khanikar, undertakes the task of repainting and refurbishing the idol each year. His dedication ensures that the idol remains in pristine condition, reflecting both its historical significance and spiritual importance.
The Durga Puja Celebration
Durga Puja in Puranigudam is marked by traditional rituals and a deep sense of devotion. The absence of modern extravagances allows the community to focus on the spiritual aspects of the festival. The wooden idol, dressed in traditional Assamese silk attire such as the “Sador-Mekhela,” becomes the centerpiece of the celebrations. Devotees from various parts of Assam and beyond visit Puranigudam to witness this unique manifestation of faith and tradition.
Community Involvement
The Puranigudam Durga Puja is a collective endeavor, with community members actively participating in preparations and rituals. Local artisans contribute their skills to decorate the puja mandap (pavilion), while families donate garments and ornaments for the idol. This collaborative spirit fosters a strong sense of unity and preserves the cultural fabric of the community.
Challenges and Resilience
Over the years, the Puranigudam Durga Puja has faced various challenges, including natural wear and tear of the wooden idol and external factors like the COVID-19 pandemic, which necessitated subdued celebrations. Despite these hurdles, the community’s commitment to preserving their unique tradition has remained unwavering. Adaptations have been made to ensure the safety of participants while maintaining the sanctity of the rituals.
Conclusion
The wooden Durga idol of Puranigudam stands as a symbol of enduring faith, artistic heritage, and community resilience. This century-old tradition not only distinguishes Puranigudam’s Durga Puja from others but also offers a profound example of how cultural practices can be preserved and cherished across generations. As devotees gather each year to celebrate, the wooden idol serves as a timeless reminder of their shared history and unwavering devotion.
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