The annual Durga Puja in Nongpoh has a unique visitor this year in the form of Chandrayaan-3, India’s celebrated Moon probe.
The Nongpoh Ram Mandir Durga Puja Celebration Committee unveiled the replica of Chandrayaan in front of the puja mandal, along with a poignant message aimed at inspiring the youth of Ri-Bhoi.
The Ram Mandir has existed since 1924, while Durga Puja celebrations began 20 years later.
This year marks the 80th grand celebration and the introduction of Chandrayaan adds a novel dimension.
Speaking to the media, the president of the puja celebration committee, Unteshwar Singh, said that, beyond the traditional festivities that honour the Hindu goddess Durga, the committee sought to convey a profound message to the youth and students of Ri-Bhoi, their aim being to emphasise the importance of exploring opportunities in the field of science, as many students tend to gravitate towards the arts and commerce streams.
“By displaying the replica of Chandrayaan-3, we want to encourage the youth of the district to pursue higher studies in the field of science, which offers ample opportunities,” Singh said. “If we can produce highly qualified students in the field of science from the district, they will undoubtedly bring pride and recognition to both the district and the state as a whole.”
