Shillong, October 1: The Pynthorumkhrah Durga Puja Committee has announced a year-long programme to commemorate its Platinum Jubilee, marking 75 years of its journey with community activities and celebrations extending into 2027.

Speaking to the media, Committee General Secretary Sujit Dey said the celebrations would feature community service initiatives, sporting events and cultural activities aimed at encouraging public participation and strengthening community bonds.

The programme will begin with a cleanliness drive on October 2 at the Puja premises and surrounding areas. A food festival will also be organised, providing women with an opportunity to prepare and showcase a variety of dishes, with participants and winners receiving recognition from the Committee.

A commemorative Platinum Jubilee souvenir will be released on October 11, featuring articles and recollections documenting the Committee’s history, along with contributions from people belonging to different faiths and backgrounds.

Dey highlighted the spirit of communal harmony and cooperation that has supported the Puja celebrations over the years. He noted that people from different religious communities, including Christians and Muslims, had contributed to organising the event.

He also acknowledged the efforts of volunteers who have worked behind the scenes, particularly those responsible for electrical arrangements and other essential services at the Puja venue. The Committee plans to honour individuals who have contributed to its activities, irrespective of their religious or social backgrounds.

Recalling the Golden Jubilee celebrations, Dey said the Committee had organised blood donation drives, free health check-ups, and football and cricket tournaments. Similar sporting and community initiatives are planned throughout the Platinum Jubilee year.

He further highlighted the Committee’s tradition of serving food to visitors during the Puja. This year, the Committee plans to distribute food over a nine-hour period at the venue.

The Committee expressed gratitude to the Dorbar Shnong and local community leaders for their support in preparing for the celebrations.

Dey said continued cooperation among residents would be crucial to making the Platinum Jubilee a memorable occasion, reflecting the Committee’s 75-year legacy of community participation, service and communal harmony.