Durga Puja, one of the most significant festivals in Bengal, is an annual Hindu festival
that reveres the goddess Durga. Celebrated with grandeur, particularly in West
Bengal, the festival typically spans five days and involves a variety of cultural,
spiritual, and social activities. Here’s an overview of the key aspects of Durga Puja in
Bengal:
### **Historical and Mythological Significance**
Durga Puja marks the victory of the goddess Durga over the demon king
Mahishasura, symbolizing the triumph of good over evil. The festival usually takes
place in the month of Ashwin (September-October), culminating on the tenth day
known as Vijayadashami or Dussehra.
### **Preparations**
Preparations for Durga Puja begin months in advance:
- **Clay Idols**: Artisans, primarily in Kumartuli, Kolkata, start crafting elaborate clay
idols of Durga and her children (Lakshmi, Saraswati, Ganesha, and Kartik) well before
the festival.
- **Pandals**: Temporary structures or pandals are constructed to house the idols.
These pandals are often themed and decorated with great creativity, showcasing
artistic talents.
### **Festival Days**
The main celebrations occur over five days: Shashthi, Saptami, Ashtami, Navami, and
Dashami.
- **Shashthi**: The welcoming of the goddess. The idol is unveiled, and rituals
commence.
- **Saptami**: The day starts with a ritual called "Nabapatrika" or "Kolabou" where a
banana plant is adorned and worshipped.
- **Ashtami**: The most auspicious day featuring the “Kumari Puja” where young
girls are worshipped as the embodiment of the goddess. The evening includes the
grand “Sandhi Puja” performed at the juncture of Ashtami and Navami.
- **Navami**: The day is marked by “Maha Aarti” and various cultural performances.
- **Dashami**: On the final day, the idols are immersed in water bodies, a ritual
known as “Visarjan”. This symbolizes the return of the goddess to her celestial abode.
### **Cultural Activities**
Durga Puja is not just a religious event but also a cultural extravaganza:
- **Dance and Music**: Traditional dances like Dhunuchi Naach and various musical
performances take place.
- **Food**: Special delicacies like bhog (offering to the goddess) are prepared. Street
food stalls offer a wide range of Bengali snacks and sweets.
- **Fairs and Exhibitions**: Numerous fairs and art exhibitions are organized around
the city, adding to the festive atmosphere.
### **Community Involvement**
Durga Puja fosters a strong sense of community. People from all walks of life come
together to organize, participate, and celebrate. This inclusivity and communal
harmony are central to the festival’s spirit.
### **Modern Trends**
- **Theme-based Pandals**: In recent years, theme-based pandals have become a
highlight, depicting everything from social messages to historical events and global
art forms.
- **Eco-friendly Practices**: There is a growing emphasis on eco-friendly materials for
idols and pandals to reduce environmental impact.
### **Conclusion**
Durga Puja in Bengal is a vibrant, joyous occasion that blends devotion, art, culture,
and community spirit. It is a time when the entire state, particularly Kolkata,
transforms into a hub of festivity, attracting visitors from all over the world.
