Md. Shahinur Islam Shahin , Khetlal (Joypurhat)

 Although the zamindari system has long faded into history, centuries-old religious and social traditions remain vibrant in Khetlal Upazila, Joypurhat. At the 400-year-old "Devalay" Zamindar Estate in Khalishagari and the historic residence of Girish Chandra Chaki in Baksipara, families continue to observe Durga Puja with unique heritage rituals.

Unlike standard celebrations that begin on Shasthi, both historic estates organize a 10-day Durga Puja spanning from Pratipada—immediately following Mahalaya—through Vijaya Dashami.

The "Devalay" estate traces its origin back four centuries to landlord Krishna Kanta Dev, followed by his son Neel Madhav Dev. Today, Neel Madhav’s childless granddaughter, Gauri Rani Dev, resides in the ancestral home, preserving the family legacy. She personally spearheaded the recent restoration of the estate's ancient temple, which had last undergone renovation nearly 118 years ago.

Similarly, in Baksipara, the descendants of Zamindar Girish Chandra Chaki—who once oversaw 2,900 bighas of land under the Nahata State—have sustained their family's 250-to-300-year-old Puja tradition. A hallmark of the Chaki family celebration is the performance of rituals accompanied by the synchronized beats of more than 20 dhak drums.

Beyond religious rituals, the estates hold deep socio-economic significance for the region. The annual Vijaya Dashami fair at Khalishagari, held on land historically linked to the estate, continues to draw crowds across religious and social lines.

This year, Durga Puja is being celebrated across 42 mandaps in Khetlal Upazila under full administrative and police security, according to Swapan Kumar Roy, president of the Khetlal Upazila Puja Celebration Committee. Yet, the celebrations at Devalay and Baksipara stand out as living monuments, bridging Khetlal's rich heritage with the present.