Festivals in India- Durga Puja

Durga Puja is one of the most popular and auspicious celebrations in north India, especially in Bengal and adjacent regions.

In this special occasion Goddess Durga is worshipped with utmost vigor and enthusiasm.

This puja comes twice in a year, once in summer between April and May; and the other in autumn between September and October.

It is a nine day celebration in both the occasions. Celebrations end with Rama Navmi in the first season and the other ends with Dussehera.

In the Hindu mythology, Goddess Durga was created by Lord Shiva with all the might put together to defeat the evil demon called Mahishasura.

Durga is the symbol of energy or Shakti. Though Durga Puja is celebrated twice in a year, the occasion that coincides with Dussehra is the most popular one. In Bengal it is the main festival, lasting for nine days.

For Bengalis Durga is very close to their hearts. They consider it to be their dearest daughter and eagerly expect her to their homes every year.

In each household Goddess Durga is specially decorated along with her children Ganesha, Lakshmi and Saraswati. For Hindus these three Gods symbolize Prosperity, Wisdom and Wealth respectively.

Special pujas and aarthis are performed all the nine days. Friends and relatives visit each others home and join the pujas. There are also community Durga puja celebrations in almost every street.

Huge Pandals are erected every nook and corner of the Bengal with beautiful decoctions with electric lights and flowers in different themes.

Durga Puja is not only a religious even but also became social cultural events. The celebrations become a platform to showcase the art and cultural values of Bengal.

Cultural programs are organized every where echoing local customs and traditions. Local craftsmen and artisans take this opportunity to showcase their talents.

Competitions and prize distributions are done at many places. Special editions are published in local magazines and newspapers during the occasion.

It provides best opportunities for shopping. As major festival shops are stocked varieties of articles like cloths, dresses and fancy items. Many vendors offer Sale and bargains during this period.

Bijoya Dashami or Dussehra is the last day of Durga Puja celebration. In the evening after completing the puja and arathi the idle is taken as procession to the sea shore or huge water body and immersed in the water.

Governments have issued various guidelines to save the seas and water bodies from pollution and environment hazards. Idles made of hazardous chemicals and clays are prohibited and only mud idle are permitted.

Thanks to the migrated population, Durga Puja is celebrated in other parts of the country also to some extent. This event provides an opportunity to get to gather friends and relatives.