London, 10th October 2022: ‘Durga Parade on the Thames’, a unique initiative promoting Bengal’s heritage and culture globally, supported by Aditya Group was organized on Saturday 8th October in London. The event replicated the sentiment behind the carnival hosted at Kolkata’s Red Road on the same day. The parade showcased the culture and values of Bengal while carrying Durga ‘Protima’ (idols) from several Pujas across the UK along with the Durga Protima cutouts of two of the most prominent Durga Pujas of Kolkata, Baghbazar and Bhawanipur 75 Palli, on a boat, sailing from Westminster pier to downstream and back.
The Carnival floated via Westminster, the London Eye, the Embankment, St. Paul’s Cathedral, the London Bridge, and the Tower Bridge, and returned with idols supported by boats decorated with Chhau Masks. Pujas like Camden and Birmingham Bengali Association Midlands participated in the event. Tourists witnessed this grand affair from different places along the Thames.
Speaking on this occasion, Anirban Aditya, Chairman Aditya Group and Aditya Academy Group of School said, “I am very thankful to the organizers for all their efforts to bring this event together and letting us be a part of it. Also, this year it is all the more special as it coincides with UNESCO’s acknowledgment of the festival in Kolkata. This initiative is just brilliant to bring Kolkata and London closer. Aditya Group is proud to be associated with such a drive. “