Make Calcutta Relevant Again Announces the Second Edition of Onyo Pujo – A Durga Puja with a Difference

Rooted in the spirit of regeneration, the second edition of Onyo Pujo was announced as a unique celebration of Durga Puja, conceptualized as a students’ initiative by Techno India. This innovative festival merges the rich traditions of Bengal’s greatest celebration with values of sustainability, innovation, and cultural consciousness.

The Khuti Pujo—a symbolic beginning to this one-of-a-kind Puja—was performed on 30th July 2025 in Kolkata, marking the ceremonial start of the festivities. This year’s theme, “Naryal Katha” (The Story of Coconut), was unveiled along with the announcement of the festival’s mascot, “Naru Da.” The theme aims to inspire young minds to view culture through the lens of environmental responsibility and contemporary creativity.

The launch event was graced by several eminent personalities, including:

• Prof. Manoshi Roychowdhury, Co-Chairperson, Techno India Group

• Mr. Neel Bhattacharya, Actor

• Ms. Sujata Chatterjee, Founder & MD, Twirl.store

• Ms. Pauline Laravoire, Founder, The Rebalance Institute & Sustainability Director, Techno India Group

• Mr. Meghdut Roychowdhury, Founder, Make Calcutta Relevant Again & Chief Innovation Officer and Executive Director, Techno India Group

This year, the pandal will be uniquely crafted using coconut and its by-products—including coconut ropes, shavings, charcoal, and husk—symbolising the central theme of “Naryal Katha.” Designed by Sujata Chatterjee, this vision will be brought to life by an all-girls team from Twirl, in collaboration with students from Techno India Group. The students will play a pivotal role in conceptualizing and constructing the pandal, channeling their creativity, craftsmanship, and commitment to sustainability to create a visual expression of regeneration and innovation.

“Onyo Pujo is about reimagining our age-old traditions in a way that resonates with today’s youth and tomorrow’s environment. It’s time we align our heritage with the urgent call for sustainability. I believe this initiative paves the way for a more responsible and innovative future,” said Mr. Meghdut Roychowdhury.

“This project stands as a testament to the potential of our young generation. They are taking ownership of their future by weaving sustainability into cultural expressions like Durga Puja. Onyo Pujo embodies the innovation that can emerge when tradition and sustainability intersect,” said Ms. Pauline Laravoire.

The Khuti Pujo of Onyo Pujo was performed with all traditional rituals and customs observed with reverence. Yet, beyond its traditional core, this Pujo stands as a symbol of transformation—honouring the past while paving the way for a greener, more thoughtful future.