The Dasnami Act and the Decline of Durga Puja in 19th-Century Bengal
Between 1830 and 1840, Kolkata witnessed a noticeable decline in its once-grand Durga Puja celebrations. What had been an opulent display hosted by kings, zamindars, and wealthy families began to shrink in scale and number. The reasons behind this shift were rooted not only in economics but also in social, political, and religious tensions of the time.
British Patronage and the Rise of Lavish Celebrations
During the early colonial era, British officials frequently attended Durga Pujas organised by affluent Bengali families. These hosts viewed the pujas as opportunities to impress the British sahibs in hopes of receiving titles, favours, and administrative advantages.
British guests were welcomed with elaborate feasts, entertainment, liquor, and dance performances. Over time, the festival became intertwined with colonial social culture, creating discomfort on both sides.
Growing Tensions and Missionary Pressure
Hindu elites were increasingly uneasy about British participation in religious rituals, fearing that the sacred festival was being overshadowed by secular revelry.
Meanwhile, Christian missionaries strongly opposed the British mingling with Hindu customs. They worried that such close cultural engagement might lead British officials toward “polytheistic” influence.
Among the missionaries, Reverend Peg emerged as a vocal critic. He campaigned vigorously against British involvement in Hindu festivals and condemned the dancing, music, and festivities that accompanied Durga Puja.
The Dasnami Act of 1840
Responding to missionary pressure, in 1840 the British government introduced what came to be known as the Dasnami Act.
The act placed strict restrictions on:
-
Participation of British officials in Durga Puja
-
Patronage by Hindu elites
-
Festive activities such as drumming, dancing, and other celebratory customs
The immediate consequence was the dramatic reduction of lavish household pujas. With British officers withdrawing from public celebrations, local kings and landlords also scaled down their expenditures.
This sudden decline had a cascading impact on Kolkata’s socio-economic landscape.
Impact on Kumortuli and the Puja Economy
Kumortuli, the traditional potters’ quarter of Kolkata, suffered greatly. As the demand for large, ornate idols and puja materials fell, potters faced severe financial strain. The once-thriving cottage industry experienced a sharp downturn.
Rise of "Chapiye Deoya Pujo"
In the midst of this decline, an old custom resurfaced and gained popularity: “Chapiye Deoya Pujo” or “Chapano Pujo”, meaning “Forced” or “Imposed Puja.”
Durga idols were left at people’s homes—sometimes as a religious gesture, sometimes as a clever commercial tactic to revive demand. This practice helped sustain certain traditions despite the restrictions imposed by the Dasnami Act.
Final Thoughts
The Dasnami Act marked a significant turning point in the history of Durga Puja in Bengal. What began as a colonial social event intertwined with local aristocratic ambitions evolved into a contentious cultural battleground. The act not only altered the nature of Durga Puja celebrations but also reshaped Kolkata’s cultural economy, leaving a lasting imprint on its social history.
