Kolkata puja honors acid attack survivors, raises awareness
For 2024, Kolkata's Dakshindari Youths Durga Puja has dedicated its theme—called "Dahan" (burning)—to acid attack survivors.
Through bold art and live performances, the pandal is all about raising awareness on violence against women and honoring the resilience of those who've faced it.
Durga idol's hollowed stomach symbolizes pain
The Durga idol features a hollowed stomach, powerfully reflecting what survivors go through.
Opaque mirrors around the space symbolize lost eyesight, reminding visitors of both the pain and courage these women carry.
Survivors share stories, theater artists perform skits
Survivors took to the stage with their own stories, joined by theater artists performing skits depicting violence against women.
As organizer Partha Verma put it, they hope this sparks empathy and mindset change.
Activist stresses need for year-round awareness
West Bengal had the highest number of acid attacks in India in 2022 (48 cases, 52 victims).
Activist Shaheen Malik stressed that support shouldn't just be seasonal, emphasizing that awareness needs to last all year to prevent attacks and help survivors rebuild.