The Bama Kali dance
Kalyani: In a break in its 56-year-old tradition, the dance of Bama Kali, which has been a social media sensation and draws thousands to Shantipur, will have to move from its traditional venue at Barabazar More to Bejpara ground, around 200m from the temple. Organisers clarified that the move was not linked in any way to the Chorbagan stampede that claimed 19 lives on Saptami night. Rather, the decision was taken keeping in mind the near-stampede-like situation in 2025. Around 50 trained performers take part in the dance, assisted by 50 club members. Over 100 bloggers and content creators covered the event last year, according to a local.
The decision was formally confirmed this year on Chaturthi. You Can Also Check: Gold Rate in Kolkata | Silver Rate in Kolkata | Bank Holidays in Kolkata | Public Holidays in Kolkata | Kolkata AQI | Weather in Kolkata | Petrol Price in Kolkata | Diesel Price in Kolkata | CNG Price in Kolkata | LPG Price in Kolkata Stay updated with the latest Kolkata news.
The decision to change the venue for the crowd-puller event was taken before Durga Puja after discussions between police and the puja committee and has now been formally communicated to stakeholders, organisers said. Pointing out the difficulties faced in crowd management last year, club secretary Nishan Saha said, “There was risk of a major accident. The puja, formally known as Shri Shri Charjijira Bama Kali Mata Puja, is organised by Netaji Subhas Sangha. The Bama Kali dance, performed before immersion, sees the huge idol mounted on a bamboo structure and carried in a coordinated performance in a procession. Police somehow managed the situation, and the administration decided that the dance should be shifted to Bejpara ground. Organisers hope the open space at Bejpara ground will help crowd management, though safe entry, exit and crowd control will remain key challenges. Download the TOI App.