Navi Mumbai: The much-anticipated "Vashi Durgotsav," organized by the Navi Mumbai Bengali Association (NMBA), attracted a few lakh visitors over its five-day celebration at the CIDCO Exhibition Centre. Known for its grandeur, the event featured elaborate Durga Puja rituals, captivating cultural programs, and impressive musical performances that drew massive crowds each day.

A highlight of the festivities was the appearance of Dr. Sanjay Mukherjee, Metropolitan Commissioner of MMRDA and former Vice Chairman and MD of CIDCO. Dr. Mukherjee, a Kishore Kumar enthusiast and connoisseur of Rabindra Sangeet, delighted the audience with a spellbinding stage performance. His renditions of the classic Kishore Kumar song "Yeh Kya Hua, Kaise Hua" and the soulful Rabindra Sangeet "Sakhi Bhavana Kahare Bole" enthralled the packed audience, earning him thunderous applause for his flawless singing.

The cultural lineup also featured renowned Bengali singers such as Anupam Roy, Anwesha, and Akriti Kakar, who captivated attendees with their performances. The "Abhijit Bhattacharya Night" stood out, drawing over a lakh enthusiastic fans who cheered and danced to popular 90s hits. The night ended on a high note with Abhijit playing the traditional "Dhaak" drum to the rhythm of the Durga Puja favorite "Dhaker Taale."

Around 15,000 visitors were served free bhog (traditional meal) daily. Somnath Chatterjee, General Secretary of NMBA, expressed satisfaction with the turnout, stating, "The daily participation exceeded expectations. We made every effort to make the event grand, offering support to members, senior citizens, and guests, with no ticket system for entry."