Bahrain's Durga Pooja: A Testament to Peaceful Coexistence and Cultural Harmony

Celebrating inclusion

At the heart of this celebration lies Bahrain’s remarkable openness and the freedom it affords all religious communities to practice their faith without restriction.

“The Kingdom’s values of tolerance and peaceful coexistence are experienced by all our members,” said Subhodip Ghosh of Bongiyo Samaj. "Despite differences in opinion, every one of us agrees on the freedom Bahrain offers.

It is this very spirit of inclusion that makes Bahrain our home.” The Durga Puja celebrations have not only thrived but have evolved over the years.

The festival was first held at the Shree Krishna Temple in Bahrain, before moving to Adhari Park due to increasing numbers.

This transition has allowed Bongiyo Samaj to preserve the grandeur of Bengal’s traditional Pujas, complete with intricately crafted idols flown in from Kolkata, elaborate pandals, and traditional performances like the dazzling ‘Dhanuchi’ dance, performed to the rhythmic beats of the ‘dhak’.

"The stirring synergy of chants, floral scents, and the clattering bangles brings to life memories of home,” said Sudipto Saha , former president o f Bongiyo Samaj.

"But this festival is more than just a religious observance.

It has become a multicultural event, attended by Indians, Bangladeshis, and Bahrainis alike. It’s a celebration of art, culture, and performance that unites us across boundaries of caste, creed, and religion.”

The festival has even garnered international recognition, winning the prestigious 'Biswa Bangla Sarad Samaan' award in 2017 for the best Durga Puja celebration outside of India. Yet, it is not just the scale or splendour of the event that makes it special.

The festival serves as a living testament to Bahrain’s harmonious blend of cultures, with temples, churches, and gurdwaras coexisting alongside mosques - a rare sight in many parts of the world.

Open-minded government

Bongiyo Samaj’s leadership is quick to acknowledge the support they have received from the Bahraini government.

“The Ministry of Social Development has been instrumental in helping us conduct our activities legally and efficiently,” noted current members. The government’s open-minded approach has created an environment where people of all faiths feel welcomed and secure in their religious practices, making Bahrain a beacon of religious harmony in the region.

A place called home

For Chinmoy Chatterjee, former president of Bongiyo Samaj, Bahrain’s warmth and inclusivity have made it more than just a place to live; it has become home. "Many of us think twice about relocating, even to our homeland," he shared.

"The hospitality and acceptance we’ve experienced here make Bahrain a place where we feel a deep sense of belonging." Vikas Katiyar, another key figure in Bongiyo Samaj, remembers beginning his journey with the Durga Puja celebrations in 2001 when he first arrived in Bahrain.

Reflecting on his early experiences, he said, “As I stepped off the plane in Bahrain, I never imagined that this small island nation would become the crucible where my faith would be both challenged and strengthened. When I first moved here, I was apprehensive about whether I could celebrate my culture and traditions openly.

To my surprise, Bahrain not only allowed me to practice my religious beliefs but also provided a framework of constructive coexistence among different religions, sects, and diverse beliefs.” Katiyar emphasizes how Bahrain’s inclusive society fosters strong community bonds.

“The people of Bahrain have created a strong community founded upon understanding and respect by engaging with one another frequently and meaningfully.

This spirit of affinity, love, and friendship is evident among the different segments of the Bahraini people, including residents from diverse backgrounds.”

Joining Bongiyo Samaj became a turning point for Katiyar, who now sees the Durga Puja festival as a platform for promoting cultural unity.

"The Bongiyo Samaj Durga Puja celebration provides a multicultural platform for thousands of people who come to celebrate the victory of good over evil.

It’s not just about prayer; it’s about joy, devotion, and community spirit," he said.

"Bahrain, our home away from home, allows us to promote our culture and tradition while preserving the cultural coexistence and harmony that the country always strives for.”

Katiyar’s experience, like that of many others in the community, is one of deeper faith and appreciation for Bahrain’s commitment to religious freedom. “Bahrain allowed me to dive deeper into my own faith while gaining a profound appreciation for others.

Here, in this melting pot of cultures and beliefs, I found a society that not only tolerated religious diversity but celebrated it. The juxtaposition of ancient traditions and modern skylines mirrored the harmonious coexistence of various faiths.”

A true melting pot of cultures

As the Sharodotsav festival continues to grow in popularity, it embodies the spirit of unity that Bahrain champions. In a world often divided by differences, the festival stands as a shining example of how cultural and religious diversity can flourish in an atmosphere of mutual respect and understanding.

Durga Puja in Bahrain is not just a celebration; it is a symbol of the Kingdom's peaceful coexistence, a testament to its role as a true melting pot of cultures. In the words of the Bongiyo Samaj Executive Committee 2024-25, “Sharodotsav in Bahrain is more than just a reminder of our roots; it is a celebration of the unique harmony we have found in this beautiful island nation.”

Chinmoy Chatterjee

Subhodip Ghosh 

Sudipto Saha

VIkas Katiya