Durga Puja is a celebration of strength, courage and the divine feminine. Goddess Durga represents Shakti—the power to overcome challenges, protect others and create positive change. At Oitijhyo Sarbojonin Cultural Association, we believe the spirit of Shakti should extend beyond the idol and into the way the festival itself is organised.
Oitijhyo Sarbojonin Cultural Association, Hinjewadi Phase 2, Pune, will host its first Sharodiya Durgotsav from 16 to 21 October 2026, with women’s empowerment as its central theme.
For us, women’s empowerment is not simply a festival message. Women are taking an active role in the core committee, contributing to planning, decision-making, financial management, cultural activities and the overall organisation of the Puja.
Women Leading Durga Puja
Women leading Durga Puja is becoming an important part of the changing cultural landscape. Across Bengal, women are taking on responsibilities that were once largely handled by men, including priesthood, committee leadership, ritual management and cultural coordination. At Kolkata’s 66 Pally, women priests have conducted Durga Puja rituals, while the Jagrihi Women’s Welfare Association in Barisha has organised an all-women Durga Puja for many years. Women dhakis are also becoming increasingly visible at celebrations across Bengal.
These examples show that women are not stepping into tradition for the first time—they have always been an essential part of it. What is changing is the opportunity to take leadership, make decisions and receive recognition for their contribution. Oitijhyo wants to be part of this positive change by placing women at the centre of the Puja’s planning and execution.
Oitijhyo wants to be part of this positive change.
A festival dedicated to Goddess Durga should also encourage women to take responsibility, express their ideas and lead with confidence.
Turning Women’s Empowerment Into Action
At Oitijhyo, the theme will be visible throughout the celebration.
The cultural programme will provide a platform for women and girls of different generations. Young children can experience their first stage performance, teenagers can showcase their talents, and women who once performed but stepped away from the stage can find an opportunity to return.
The Puja will also encourage participation from women entrepreneurs, home bakers, artists, designers, craft makers and small-business owners in and around Hinjewadi.
The objective is to create meaningful opportunities rather than limit empowerment to speeches or slogans. A stall can help a home business reach new customers. A performance can build confidence. A creative showcase can help an artist gain recognition.
A Sarbojonin Celebration for Everyone
Oitijhyo is a Sarbojonin Durga Puja, and everyone is invited to participate.
Men, women, children and senior citizens from different states, languages and cultural backgrounds can come together to celebrate. Women’s leadership is not about excluding others. It is about ensuring that women have an equal opportunity to contribute, influence decisions and take responsibility.
Hinjewadi has become a vibrant community for professionals, entrepreneurs, families and individuals from across India. Many women living here balance careers, businesses, households and family responsibilities while remaining connected to their cultural roots.
Oitijhyo aims to provide a welcoming space where they can reconnect with tradition, meet new people and actively contribute to community life.
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https://www.oitijhyosarbojonin.com/contact
Creating a Lasting Tradition
The first year of a community Puja creates the foundation for its future. Oitijhyo wants that foundation to reflect inclusion, participation, equality and shared leadership.
Our vision is simple:
A Durga Puja inspired by Shakti, strengthened by women’s leadership and open to everyone.
When Goddess Durga arrives in Hinjewadi this October, Oitijhyo hopes to welcome her with devotion, celebration and a community that believes women should have a meaningful place at every level of the festival.
Oitijhyo Sarbojonin Durga Puja 2026
16–21 October 2026
Sitai Banquet Hall, Hinjewadi Phase II, Pune
For sponsorship and partnership enquiries:
info@oitijhyosarbojonin.com
WhatsApp: 8956047464
