Kolkata, 23 January (H.S.) :

Artificial Intelligence found an unusual application during Saraswati Puja celebrations in Bongaon, North 24 Parganas, where a family performed the ritual with the help of AI instead of a traditional priest.

The incident took place at Subhashpally, where local resident Sushovan Ghosh used Artificial Intelligence to conduct the puja by accurately reciting Sanskrit mantras. With flowers arranged, fruits prepared, alpana drawn, and children dressed in yellow attire seated before the idol, the only missing element was a priest. To avoid delays and long waits, the family turned to technology.

Using a mobile phone and internet access, Sushovan verified and played the mantras through AI, following which family members and neighbours collectively recited them and completed the puja. Children, adults, and elderly residents of the locality actively participated in the ritual, drawing curiosity and surprise from the neighbourhood.

Speaking about the initiative, Sushovan said that the idea came from the frequent difficulty of finding priests during Saraswati Puja due to heavy demand. He stated that the AI followed almanac rules, pronounced the mantras correctly in Sanskrit, and guided the entire ritual step by step. The family expressed satisfaction, saying the AI-assisted puja provided mental and spiritual fulfilment while clearly explaining the procedures and rules.

The development has triggered mixed reactions among priests. While some expressed concern that such technology could affect their profession in the future, others believe Artificial Intelligence can serve as a supportive tool rather than a complete replacement.

The incident highlights how technology is increasingly becoming integrated into everyday life, even extending into traditional religious practices.

Hindusthan Samachar / Satya Prakash Singh