Chatu Babu Latu Babu Durga Puja – A Historic Bonedi Bari Puja in Kolkata

Chatu Babu Latu Babu Durga Puja is one of the most fascinating Bonedi Bari Durga Puja celebrations in North Kolkata. The family has celebrated Durga Puja since 1770. The tradition began with the famous Bengali merchant Ram Dulal Deb (Sarkar) at his Beadon Street residence. His sons, Chatu Babu (Ashutosh Deb) and Latu Babu (Pramathanath Deb), later gave the Puja its popular name.

The family home, known as Ramdulal Nibas on Beadon Street, reflects the grandeur of old Kolkata. The historic mansion features a traditional Thakur Dalan, large pillars and open courtyards. During Durga Puja, the house comes alive with age-old rituals and the charm of Kolkata’s historic Babu culture.

Unique Traditions of Chatu Babu Latu Babu Bari Puja

The Chatu Babu Latu Babu Bari Puja follows several unique family traditions. The Ekchala Durga idol features traditional Daaker Saaj. Goddess Durga appears with Jaya and Bijaya instead of the usual Lakshmi and Saraswati. The colourful Chalchitra behind the idol adds to its distinctive appearance.

The rituals begin from Pratipad. During the early days, the family performs worship without the main Durga idol. Idol worship begins on Saptami after the Nabapatrika or Kola Bou ritual. The family also performs Kumari Puja on Ashtami, along with traditional offerings and other important ceremonies.

Another special tradition is the end of animal sacrifice. According to family tradition, Ram Dulal Deb stopped goat sacrifice after a frightened goat ran to him for protection. Today, the family follows a symbolic Ripu Boli ritual. Offerings such as chalkumro and sugarcane replace animal sacrifice.

The Nilkantho Ritual

The Nilkantho bird ritual was once an important part of Vijaya Dashami at Chatu Babu Latu Babu Bari. Traditionally, two Indian roller birds were released before the immersion of Goddess Durga. The ritual symbolised the goddess’s journey back to Kailash.

The family no longer releases live birds because of wildlife protection laws. However, the Nilkantho tradition remains an important part of the Puja’s cultural history.

A Living Heritage of North Kolkata

Today, Chatu Babu Latu Babu Durga Puja remains an important part of the Kolkata Bonedi Bari Durga Puja Trail. Unlike modern theme-based community pandals, this historic family Puja preserves traditional rituals, architecture and customs.

For heritage travellers, photographers and culture lovers, a visit offers a chance to experience traditional Durga Puja in Kolkata. It also provides a closer look at the history, culture and family traditions of old North Kolkata.

If you want to explore Kolkata Bonedi Bari Durga Puja, Chatu Babu Latu Babu Bari is a memorable stop for anyone interested in Bengal’s living heritage.