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Not a lion, Goddess Durga worshipped on a tiger at Hatibagan Kundu family
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News18•19-10-2026, 21:20
Not a lion, Goddess Durga worshipped on a tiger at Hatibagan Kundu family
- •At the century-old Kundu residence in Hatibagan, Kolkata, Goddess Durga is worshipped as Maa Byaghravahini, riding a tiger instead of a lion.
- •The puja features a traditional single-frame idol where the goddess's mount is a tiger, surrounded by artistic tiger carvings.
- •Driven by family member and tiger expert Joydeep Kundu's deep love for tigers, the entire house is decorated with statues and pictures of tigers.
- •The unique decoration aims to highlight the tiger's crucial role in maintaining ecological balance alongside celebrating Durga Puja.
- •Now in its 18th year, the Byaghravahini puja has become a unique confluence of tradition, devotion, and wildlife conservation.
Key Questions Answered
At the century-old Kundu family residence in Hatibagan, Goddess Durga is worshipped in a traditional single-frame idol riding a tiger instead of a lion, earning her the name Maa Byaghravahini.
The family of tiger expert Joydeep Kundu has a history of living in the Hatibagan area for about 182 years. His deep fascination with tigers inspired the unique wildlife decorations featuring numerous tiger statues and pictures throughout the house.
The special worship of Maa Byaghravahini at the Kundu family residence in Hatibagan is currently in its 18th year, blending traditional devotion with wildlife awareness.
