Just over a century ago, twelve friends in Kolkata got together to organise the first Baroari ('baarah yaar' or 'twelve friends') Puja, that took the Durga Puja celebrations to the community at large. Neighbourhoods (paras), clubs & local committees today contribute to about 5,000 Sarbajanin ('for all people') Puja celebrations in pandals (temporary structures that house the idols) across Kolkata & Howrah.
Durga Puja, the most happening festival of the Bengalis can be feel with its fanfare on all the four days of the festivity. The autumnal festival also known as Sharodotsav, recalls the power of female Shakti symbolized by the Goddess Durga who slays asura to reestablish peace & sanctity on the earth again. Bengalis across the world rejoice to their heart's content reconnecting with friends and relatives during these days of Durga Puja. The occasion is marked with the familiar sound of Dhak, Dhunuchi nachh, the mild fragrance of Shiuli, gives a familiar tug to every Bengali heart.
Like every year, SERUM Group presents Serum Sharod Baran, the biggest crown of Puja Awards for Best Idol, Best Concept, Best Low Budget Puja and Best Societal Friend. A unique way to welcome Autumn through the colourful and eventful Serum Sharod Baran and celebrate Durga Puja, the biggest Bengali Festival.
Some 10 years ago, Sri Sanjib Acharya, Chairman, SERUM Group instituted Serum Sharod Baran to honour the 20 Best Idol or Sera Pratima, Best Concept or Sera Bhabona and Best Low Budget Puja or Salpo Baye Sera Puja. This year there is a new addition in the award category - Best Societal Friend or Sera Samaj Bandhu. The awards, facilitated by SERUM Group, sought to create a renowned and reputable platform of expression for all strata of society.
Kolkata | Saltlake | Howrah
Number of Awards: 20
Awards will be delivered to the concerned Puja Committee on the four segments, viz.,
