Masan Holi in Kolkata

In 2025, Tridhara Sammilani Durga Puja in Kolkata attracted widespread attention for presenting a symbolic Masan Holi, inspired by the Shaivite tradition of Kashi. Masan Holi is a ritual associated with Lord Shiva, where cremation ash (bhasma) is used to represent the transient nature of life, the certainty of death, and the path to spiritual liberation. It is deeply rooted in the philosophy of detachment and renunciation rather than celebration in the conventional sense. Tridhara’s presentation was conceptual and artistic, aimed at highlighting this lesser-known cultural tradition through visual symbolism and performance. The use of ash, fire motifs, and Shaivite imagery reflected the idea that human existence is temporary and that ego ultimately dissolves into nothingness. The initiative was not directed against any religion or community, nor did it attempt to imitate or comment on any religious structure. Instead, it remained firmly grounded in Hindu spiritual thought and cultural expression.