Kolkata, September 10, 2013: Despite the falling rupee, rising inflation and the general slowdown in the economy, the large business generated by West Bengal’s biggest festival Durga Puja is all set to boom as in the past years.

About 10,000 community pujas are organised in the State with the concentration being around the capital where the splendour can be mind-blowing. There has been an estimated 20 per cent escalation in costs of these pujas, organisers said. There has been appreciation in every aspect of these pujas, which are theme-based.

But indications are that there will be no cut in the expenditure.

An entire economy — many involving village artisans — gets boosted during the Durga Puja festivities as it offers opportunity to make an extra buck.

According to a study by Assocham, the economic gloom has not affected the festive spending till now.

Source: The Hindu, September 10, 2013