Indian Assistant High Commissioner Manoj Kumar today visited the centuries-old Kali Puja and fair at Budhpara Shri Shri Kalimata Temple in Lalpur upazila of Natore. Photo: BSS

NATORE, Oct 24, 2025 (BSS) - Indian Assistant High Commissioner Manoj Kumar today visited the centuries-old Kali Puja and fair at Budhpara Shri Shri Kalimata Temple in Lalpur upazila of Natore, one of the largest and most traditional religious festivals in northern Bangladesh.

He arrived at the temple around 11:15 am and later joined a discussion with members of the temple committee after visiting the fair.

He was accompanied by his spouse and other officials.

The 536th Kali Puja began at midnight on October 20 with due religious solemnity and devotion. 

Devotees and visitors from home and abroad are participating in the seven-day religious festival, which will conclude on Sunday (October 26).

Lalpur Police Station Officer-in-Charge Rafiqul Islam said he personally received the Indian envoy and added that special security arrangements had been made across Lalpur and the fairground to ensure the safety of all visitors.

Temple committee president Shatadal Kumar Pal, secretary Anand Kumar Saha, treasurer Ashish Kumar Sweet, and upazila puja udjapan parishad president Dipendranath Saha were also present at the event.