At a slow pace, more than forty-one years have passed…
Emigrants always strive to preserve their culture. A group of like-minded Bengali friends residing in Winnipeg felt an urgent need for an organization that would represent Bengali culture. This thought gave birth to “Bichitra” in 1978, officially known as “Bichitra – The Bengali Association of Manitoba.” Over time, it became deeply immersed in its objectives. It is a non-sectarian, non-political, and non-profit organization managed by an executive committee. Its operations are conducted by volunteers who adhere to specific rules and regulations formulated and adopted by its members. Bichitra’s membership is open to all individuals or families who are committed to its goals.
The primary objective of ‘Bichitra’ is to impart a comprehensive education to the next generation about the rich culture, literature, language, and history of Bengalis, and to artistically reintroduce these elements to people from different ethnicities. Through rich, arts-based dance, music, instrumental performances, and drama, ‘Bichitra’ presents a unique cultural blend.
Our significant cultural events include celebrating the Bengali New Year, commemorating the birth anniversaries of Rabindranath Tagore and Kazi Nazrul Islam, participating in the ‘Winnipeg Folkorama’ festival on Canada Day from the Indian pavilion, and organizing weekend camps in locations outside of Winnipeg.
Durga Puja has always been deeply ingrained in the Bengali psyche, whether in Bengal or in foreign lands. The longing for this festive spirit has propelled ‘Bichitra’ to organize Durga Puja since 1980. Among the few Pujas in North America, ours is one that follows the Indian calendar and is celebrated for four days. The ‘Agamoni’ magazine is published annually, where members contribute their valuable cultural and artistic creations. To accommodate our growing community, we have already held Pujas in various locations.
The grand activities of a well-established and populous organization are undeniable. We are now handing over the reins to our new generation, just as the old makes way for the new, and the young sapling invigorates the ancient tree. To carry ‘Bichitra’ forward, we always welcome new ideas while adhering to the rich culture and heritage of Bengal.
The history of our heritage
In 1978, during the Saraswati Puja at the Taiwan Tower, Dr. Samir Bhattacharya proposed the formation of a Bengali-based association in the presence of the entire group. The Saraswati Puja was on a Saturday, and the following day, Sunday, he invited all the members of the Makhan Ball group to provide their valuable opinions. Everyone gathered happily and agreed. That same year, to celebrate the birth anniversary of Sri Sri Thakur Ramakrishna Paramhansa Dev, ‘Bichitra’ was organized at the Hindu Society office (corner of Reid and Main Street). Shipra Sen proposed ‘Bichitra’. At that time, ‘Bichitra’ was just an association. In 1979, it was renamed ‘Bichitra – The Bengali Association of Manitoba’
Soon, it transcended a mere social institution and became the epicenter for a growing number of culturally-minded individuals and intellectuals. This city and its surrounding areas’ Bengali community, over the course of more than forty-one years, has ensured that ‘Bichitra’ remains a unique social entity, leaving its mark of independence. Today, it stands as one of Winnipeg’s oldest and most vibrant Bengali institutions.
