Poribesh Bandhu Samman 2025 – Celebrating Sustainable Durga Puja

Poribesh Bandhu Samman 2025 was an environmental awareness and recognition initiative of MANTRAS Foundation, dedicated to promoting sustainable and eco-conscious Durga Puja celebrations across West Bengal. The initiative recognised the growing importance of balancing Bengal’s rich cultural and festive traditions with the responsibility of protecting the environment. Durga Puja represents creativity, devotion and community spirit, and through Poribesh Bandhu Samman, the initiative encouraged Puja committees, artisans and communities to make sustainability an integral part of the celebrations. The programme promoted practices such as the use of natural and biodegradable materials, eco-friendly idols, natural colours, energy-efficient lighting, effective waste management, water conservation and reduced plastic usage. As part of the initiative, the dedicated team covered 140+ Durga Puja pandals across the districts of West Bengal, observing and documenting innovative approaches where environmental consciousness was combined with creativity and cultural expression. The initiative demonstrated that meaningful sustainability and grand celebrations can coexist beautifully. The participating Puja committees were evaluated through a comprehensive set of sustainability parameters, including idol materials, decoration and lighting, waste management, water and noise pollution control, sustainable resources, eco-friendly products, accessibility and safety, national unity and cultural messaging, and community participation. Jury members visited different pandals, interacted with organisers and assessed their efforts towards responsible celebration. The initiative also recognised outstanding contributions through the Poribesh Bandhu Samman and Award of Excellence, celebrating individuals and organisations that demonstrated meaningful commitment towards environmental responsibility and sustainable festivities. Beyond recognition, the initiative sought to create a wider movement around responsible celebration, encouraging communities to understand that environmental protection and cultural heritage can move together. The programme reinforced the message that devotion to Maa Durga can also be expressed through care for Prakriti Ma and the planet. Through Poribesh Bandhu Samman 2025, MANTRAS Foundation contributed towards building greater environmental awareness among Puja committees and communities across West Bengal, inspiring a future where tradition, creativity, celebration and sustainability come together for a cleaner and greener Bengal