YouTubers Are Not Allowed At This Kolkata Durga Puja Pandal

Durga Puja is here and the pandals in West Bengal have been gathering a multitude of attendees every day. This is an annual occurrence for them as they set up idols featuring elaborate adornments and distinctive themes. These remarkable displays frequently become viral sensations due to the involvement of social media content creators. Nonetheless, it seems that certain pandal organisers from the state this year aim to restrict the constant photography and videography within their premises. Recently, a notice displayed by the renowned Purbachal Shakti Sangha, a Kolkata-based club hosting a Durga Puja pandal, gained attention. The notice clearly stated, “No YouTuber allowed.”

Sharing this notice, an X user, Swati Moitra wrote, “Kolkata pujos have had it.” Take a look at it:

As soon as the photo of the notice was shared online, various individuals chimed in, expressing support for this move. A user remarked, “This should be everywhere, they are a nuisance these days.”

Another wrote, “This is a good decision! Seems the Bonedi Bari’s have had it too!”

One person recounted an unfortunate instance of overcrowding in a mall and supported the decision saying, “Last Sunday, Axis Mall had almost a stampede-like situation. In most of the days, hardly 100 -150 ppl can be seen loitering around. That day security had to close the entry as thousands assembled in the atrium to click pics with some Youtuber.”

“Best bill board,” praised X user.

Traditionally, the Durga Puja festivities have attracted a huge number of people, resulting in overcrowded pandals and, on occasion, tumultuous situations. In the past, various religious gatherings in different parts of the country have frequently experienced a surge in attendees, leading to overcrowding within small and confined areas which has occasionally triggered stampede-like situations. Last year, Kolkata Police reportedly had to halt the laser show at Santosh Mitra Square’s Durga Puja pandal due to overcrowding at the venue.

The Santosh Mitra Square Durga Puja committee was also ordered to shut down the laser show as puja-goers thronged the busy pandal on Saptami evening. Kolkata Police even had to rush a huge force to the site to control the crowds. The laser show was allowed to resume after the situation was brought under control, according to the reports.

Keeping situations like these in mind, social media users are considering Purbachal Shakti Sangha’s decision as a proactive measure to handle the overwhelming rush and ensure the secure and seamless execution of the puja arrangements.