Durga Puja is not just a festival for us Bengalis; it is a vibrant celebration that encapsulates our culture, identity, and customs. For centuries, we have been celebrating this grand event with great fervor in Bengal and across the world, long before the formation of organizations like Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP). However, recently, the VHP has been infringing upon our traditions, dictating guidelines and attempting to alter the essence of our celebrations. This intrusion is not only unwarranted but also disrespectful to our rich cultural heritage.

One of the most alarming impositions by the VHP is their stance on non-vegetarian food during the celebrations. Non-vegetarian offerings have always been a part of our rituals and communal feasts. Prohibiting such traditions is not only nonsensical but also an affront to our practices. Furthermore, their criticism of theme-based pandals undermines our creative expressions and individuality, which are integral to the splendor and diversity of our festivals.

The VHP’s interference is a blatant disregard for our rights to celebrate as we have traditionally done. They are not custodians of our culture and have no authority to dictate how we should observe our own festivals.

We respect all viewpoints and believe in coexistence. However, it is essential that the VHP and similar organizations refrain from imposing their views on communities that hold different cultural practices.

Our goal is to preserve the sanctity and authenticity of Bengalis' Durga Puja celebrations. We appeal to community leaders, cultural organizations, and the media to stand with us in protecting our traditions against unwarranted interference.

Please join us in this effort to safeguard our cultural heritage by signing this petition. Together, we can ensure that our time-honored traditions continue to thrive in their true spirit, free from external constraints. Sign now to support your right to celebrate Durga Puja as we always have done!"