Daaker Shaaj: The Symbolic Significance Of Bengal's Durga Pujo Decoration

Every year, as Bengal bursts into vibrant colours and infectious joy during Durga Puja, countless artistic expressions come alive in pandals and homes. Among these, one of the most enchanting and nostalgic forms of decoration is the Daaker Shaaj—a style that carries the fragrance of history, memory, and ancestral warmth.

Why Is It Called Daaker Shaaj?

The term Daaker Shaaj (ডাকার শাজ) literally translates to “decorations from the mail.” But why this curious name? In the early-to-mid 20th century, Bengal’s middle and upper-class households often used imported metallic foils, glass beads, sequins, and other decorative materials sent via post (“daak”) from far-off places in their Durga Pujo decorations.

The charm lay in the fact that these were not mass-manufactured decorations but personal heirlooms and eclectic finds, collected over the years and layered with history. Thus, the term Daaker Shaaj came to represent a uniquely rich and vintage style of decoration that feels both personal and artistic.

A Living Heritage

Unlike modern minimalistic or themed Pujo decorations, Daaker Shaaj tells a story—a story of Bengal’s colonial past, familial memories, and artistic sensibilities. The glittering mirrors reflect not just light but the laughter of generations; the old bangles and beads seem to carry whispered prayers of yesteryears. Every piece used in Daaker Shaaj has a history and craftsmanship, often passed down through generations, evoking an irreplaceable sense of belonging.

A Personal Reflection

While composing my recent Durga Puja song, I deliberately used the word Daaker Shaaj in the lyrics, wanting to capture the vintage, soulful essence of this celebration. Later, when the record label was being finalised and some trained ears evaluated the track, I was surprised to learn how many people are still unaware of the fascinating origin of the term. This made me realise how this beautiful tradition, despite its cultural richness, is slowly becoming a hidden gem—known mostly to connoisseurs and elder generations.

Why It Matters

In a world speeding towards modernity, Daaker Shaaj stands as a bridge between past and present. It reminds us that celebrations are not just about grandeur but about remembering our roots, valuing handcrafted art, and holding onto the beautiful fragments of history that shape who we are.

This Durga Puja, as we immerse ourselves in the festive fervour, let’s take a moment to appreciate the timeless charm of Daaker Shaaj—a tradition that turns each idol into a living memory.

Authored by Soumita Saha | Views expressed by the author are their own.