Report
Sohini Bhattacharya
Photographs
Nilanjana Chattaraj
BAJMC Sem 3
Mentor
Prof. Moumita De Das
Kolkata, 25 August 2026: The book launch of Jago Maa, authored by Shri Ravi Singh Choudhary, was held at the ICCR Library Hall in Kolkata in the presence of eminent dignitaries, authors and spiritual personalities. Organised jointly by Bharat Ekatvam Foundation and Boi Bondhu Publishers, the event unfolded in a deeply spiritual and reverential atmosphere, bringing together discussions on Matri Shakti, Devi Upasana and the cultural traditions surrounding the worship of the Divine Feminine.
The programme commenced with the anchor invoking the significance of “Matri Shakti”, describing it as the “extreme protective and powerful creation of the world.” She then welcomed and addressed the distinguished guests. Although Smt. Sarbori Mukherjee and Shri Ashish Giri were unable to attend, the presence of Chief Guest Swami Paramatmanandaji Maharaj, Shri Kushal Choudhury and author Shri Ravi Singh Choudhary enriched the occasion with their reflections.
Speaking about Jago Maa, author Ravi Singh Choudhary shared that the book emerged from a deeply personal intellectual and spiritual journey. He revealed that he had initially begun writing in English but stopped after four years, eventually realising that certain emotions and experiences could not be expressed without “bhaav”. He subsequently wrote the book during the period between Durga Puja and Kali Puja. Explaining the inspiration behind the book, Choudhary spoke about his experiences in the Middle East and his growing curiosity about Tantra and why people often perceive it with fear. Questions surrounding deities such as Maa Chhinnamasta and Maa Tara further motivated him to explore the subject. He said that the book was an attempt to understand these questions, gather knowledge and move beyond curiosity. Having roots in Jharkhand, he has also incorporated references to temples and traditions of the region. From a pan-Indian perspective, the book seeks to present Bengal, its spiritual traditions and Devi Upasana, bringing diverse forms of worship together through a common thread. Following his address, Jago Ma was formally launched amid applause and smiles from the audience.
The spiritual discourse continued with Swami Paramatmanandaji Maharaj, who began his address with the chanting of the mantra “Om Sahana Vavatu.” He reflected on the deep and ancient roots of Shakti Sadhana, describing it as a force that has flowed through human civilisation for generations. He explained how humanity’s search for answers to the mysteries of creation gradually led people towards the divine and the worship of nature, rivers, trees, stones, crops and, eventually, the feminine principle. He emphasised that human beings gradually recognised that the seed of creation lies within the feminine, perhaps explaining the cultural idea of calling the nation “Desh Mata.” He further stated that the end of Pitri Paksha marks the beginning of Matri Paksha and elaborated on the hidden meanings and rituals associated with Durga Puja. According to him, while every worship is sacred, Durga Puja is not merely a puja but a “Mahapuja”, celebrating the all-encompassing presence of the Mother.
Shri Kushal Choudhury expressed appreciation for Choudhary’s effort to awaken awareness of the Mother while living in Jharkhand. He highlighted his own long association with Matri Shakti, a publication he has been bringing out for 25 years, and spoke of his faith in real-life embodiments of feminine power, including Rani Lakshmibai and Rani Rashmoni. He concluded by saying that the true success of Choudhary’s work would lie in readers absorbing the essence of Jago Ma and applying its message in their own lives. The programme concluded successfully with closing remarks from members of the Bharat Ekatvam Foundation.
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