Tram is the identity of Kolkata. And as Durga Puja approaches, this time devotees can use the tram to go pandal hopping.
Puja fervour is already high in the City of Joy. This year, a Puja Special Tram will grace the city, with its beautiful interiors and fabulous exteriors. It has been designed in commemoration of UNESCO’s Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity tag in 2021 for Durga Puja and to celebrate 150 years of Kolkata’s tramways. The tram is part of an effort to celebrate the festival uniquely.
Kolkata’s iconic trams, dating back to 1873, are a symbol of the city’s history and charm. To celebrate this milestone, the Puja Special Tram will run from Tollygunge to Ballygunge, with a remarkable makeover, coinciding with Kolkata’s most important month of celebration. The tram on the Tollygunge route covers all the famous areas known to have historic and large Puja pandals, making it the ideal choice for this transformation.
The exteriors of the first bogie capture the hand-painted artworks honouring Kumartuli – the traditional potters’ quarter in north Kolkata where Durga idols are sculpted. It also shows Sindoor Khela and Dhunuchi dance. The bogie also highlights the unique stories featured in the current season of ‘People of Puja’ – a visually impaired artist who has commendable skills and women dhakis who challenge the masculine stronghold of the performing arts.
Inside the bogie, the makeover includes Puja decor with cane installations, Alpona art, and a museum-style visual narrative. Interactive elements and QR codes engage visitors with People of Puja stories, allowing consumers to explore the stories of the people behind Durga Puja festivities as they enjoy the tram ride.
Stepping into the second bogie transports passengers to a heritage Kolkata location, mirroring the luxurious appeal of the city. The exteriors are inspired by West Bengal’s culture and landmarks, featuring augmented reality elements. The artwork on this bogie reflects the dramatic elements of famous Puja symbols. As styles, trends, and attitudes evolve over the decades, one thing has remained constant in West Bengal —the spirit of celebration. The tram symbolises a commitment to nurturing, inspiring, and championing creativity and aesthetic excellence in the Durga Puja pandals.
West Bengal Transport Corporation chairman Madan Mitra said, “WBTC has collaborated with Asian Paints who have done Sharad Samman in Kolkata. This is a tribute to the city’s Puja spirit and the heritage of the city, the tram. My best wishes go to the entire team who have given their best efforts to this Puja Special Tram.”
The MD of WBTC Rajanvir Singh Kapur, IAS, said, “We are extremely ecstatic that the Durga Puja festival has provided a beautiful backdrop to this unique tram that will enthrall people.”
This tram will run from October till the New Year.
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