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Why Lathi-Jang and Sword Clashes Take Place on Durga Ashtami in Kolkata
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News18•19-10-2026, 13:03
Why Lathi-Jang and Sword Clashes Take Place on Durga Ashtami in Kolkata
- •Bagbazar Sarbojanin Durga Puja in Kolkata marks Maha Ashtami with the traditional Lathi Khel and sword displays known as Veerashtami.
- •This 108-year-old tradition dates back to the independence movement when revolutionaries used physical training like baton and sword fighting.
- •The historic puja is deeply connected to Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose, who helped secure venue permissions as Kolkata Mayor in 1930 and later served as the puja committee president.
Key Questions Answered
The tradition of Lathi Khel observed during Maha Ashtami in Bagbazar originates from the independence movement era. During that time, revolutionaries used physical exercises involving batons and swords for training, which has been preserved as a legacy of Veerashtami.
Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose played a key role in granting permission for the puja venue in 1930 while serving as the Mayor of Kolkata, and he contributed 500 rupees to the event. Later, in 1938-39, he also served as the president of the puja committee.
The Bagbazar Sarbojanin Durga Puja first started in 1919, initially known as Nebubagan Baroyari Durga Puja. After evolving its format and location over the years, the celebration reached its historic 108th year in 2026.
