HCG Cancer Centre, Kolkata, ushered in the spirit of Durga Puja on Panchami morning with a gathering in its ground-floor lobby, bringing a touch of Bengal’s autumnal joy to patients, caregivers and staff spending these festive days within the hospital. The occasion featured stotra path—the recitation of hymns in praise of Goddess Durga.
The décor drew on Bengal’s traditional daaker saaj, combining intricate white sholapith (the soft white pith of the shola plant) work with shimmering silver-toned embellishments. Gold-toned gota borders—decorative metallic ribbon trims—and fabric drapes framed the Goddess’s clay face, while fresh flowers completed the setting.
With an emphasis on earth-friendly choices, the installation incorporated local clay, natural sholapith and flowers, avoiding single-use plastics and Styrofoam.
Team HCG led by Dr Rupali Basu, RBH (East & AP), HCG Cancer Hospitals, along with Mr Gurvinder Singh, COO, HCG Cancer Centre, Kolkata and senior consultants inaugurated the celebrations by lighting the ceremonial lamp alongside consultants. Medical oncologists recited the Durga Stotra, invoking the Goddess’s blessings as patients, their relatives and hospital employees joined with folded hands.
“Festival means togetherness, and our patients should never feel left out. This celebration is our humble tribute to their resilience, and it remains our earnest prayer that the Goddess looks after everyone and keeps everyone well,” said Dr Basu.
