How Silchar’s Durga Puja Balances Tradition, Traffic, and Transformation

After two years away, I returned to Silchar during Durga Puja festivities expecting the warmth of familiar streets. Instead, I was met with an overwhelming wave of traffic that had consumed the city. Borrowing a scooter to navigate Silchar’s now-bustling streets, even a short 2-kilometer distance felt like an odyssey. Though the weather was kinder this time, the ease of mobility I once cherished seemed to have vanished under the city’s growing traffic woes.

Retail Rush – The Shopping Boom that Brings Villagers and Brands Together

Silchar’s retail hubs, though packed beyond belief, were a reminder of its growing commercial importance. Despite the rise of e-commerce among city dwellers, the markets overflowed with villagers from neighboring towns, who flocked here for quality and variety.

The town now carries every brand one can imagine, offering a promising future for national brands eyeing the Northeast market. It’s here that Silchar still holds its charm—an economic pulse driven by tradition and need.

Pandals of Splendor Amidst the Chaos

Battling traffic to witness Silchar’s pandals was not in vain. The creativity and grandeur of the decorations this year were unmatched. Madhyashahar’s laser light show was mesmerizing, while the towering structures of Udharbond Kali Bari Road and Hospital Road stood as true works of art.

Amidst the chaos, the pandals reminded me of Silchar’s heart—its undying spirit to celebrate with grandeur despite the challenges.

Silchar’s Culinary Renaissance – A Welcome Surprise

Perhaps the most pleasant surprise was the culinary evolution. Silchar has grown into a haven for food lovers, with new restaurants boasting modern decor and diverse menus. Places like Borail View Regency and the Mahasadak eateries added a much-needed touch of sophistication.

For someone like me, who treasures a good meal, this was more than just a discovery—it was a testament to how the town is embracing change in the best ways.

The Emotional Goodbye: A Town in Transition – Holding On to the Silchar I Once Knew

Leaving Silchar this time was different. It’s a city that’s growing, transforming, and welcoming change. But as I bid farewell, I can’t help but feel conflicted. The traffic, the crowds, the retail rush—these are signs of progress. But somewhere in all this, I felt a loss of the simplicity that once defined Silchar. How do we reconcile a city’s growth with the nostalgia of what it used to be? That’s the question that lingers with me, long after the Puja lights dim.

The author of this article is a veteran journalist from Silchar and is currently working as the Chief Operating Officer of afaqs!