Durga Puja is celebrated for a total of five main days.
These five days are –
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Shashthi (6th day) – Arrival of the Goddess and Bodhan (invocation).
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Saptami (7th day) – Nabapatrika entry and the formal beginning of the rituals.
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Ashtami (8th day) – Kumari Puja and Sandhi Puja.
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Navami (9th day) – Worship of the Goddess in her Mangala-Chandi form.
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Dashami (10th day) – Bijoya Dashami, immersion of the idol, and Sindoor Khela (vermillion ceremony).
👉 However, preparations actually begin with Mahalaya, which takes place about a week before the main Puja.
Durga Puja 2025 Dates:
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| Mahalaya | 21 September 2025 |
| Shashthi (6th day) | 27 September 2025 |
| Saptami (7th day) | 28 September 2025 |
| Ashtami (8th day) | 29 September 2025 |
| Navami (9th day) | 30 September 2025 |
| Bijoya Dashami (10th day) | 1 October 2025 |
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Durga Puja: History, Significance, and Modern Celebration
Introduction
Durga Puja is one of the most important religious and social festivals of Bengali Hindus. Beyond its spiritual meaning, the festival deeply influences Bengali culture, traditions, the economy, and social life. Every autumn, the arrival of Goddess Durga creates an atmosphere of joy, not only in West Bengal or Bangladesh but also among Bengali communities across the world.
History of Durga Puja
Mythological Origins
According to Hindu mythology, when the demon Mahishasura began terrorizing the world, the gods came together to create a powerful goddess. This goddess was Durga, who defeated Mahishasura and restored peace. Her victory symbolizes the triumph of good over evil, which is why she is worshipped during this festival.
Beginning of Puja in Bengal
Durga Puja in Bengal started around the 16th century in landlords’ houses. Later, in the 18th century, wealthy zamindars of Kolkata organized grand ceremonies, turning the festival into a public event. Today, Durga Puja is celebrated universally as a people’s festival.
Significance of Durga Puja
Religious Importance
Goddess Durga symbolizes strength, courage, and motherhood. Her ten-armed form represents supreme power, defeating evil forces. Devotees believe worshipping her removes negativity and brings peace and prosperity to life.
Social Significance
Durga Puja is not just about worship but also about social bonding. Families, friends, and neighbors gather together, wearing new clothes, sharing meals, and celebrating joyfully.
Cultural Significance
From pandal decorations, idol making, and lighting to cultural programs, plays, and music—Durga Puja has grown into a complete cultural festival showcasing Bengali art and creativity.
Preparations for Durga Puja
Idol Making
Artisans in places like Kumartuli sculpt idols of the goddess using clay. Each stage—from shaping the idol, painting, to dressing it—is done with devotion and skill.
Pandals and Decorations
Various clubs and communities set up massive themed pandals. Some resemble temples, while others showcase replicas of famous structures or creative concepts.
Sarees and New Clothes
One of the most joyful aspects of Durga Puja is wearing new clothes. Shops remain crowded with buyers, boosting the local economy significantly.
The Five Days of Puja
Shashthi (6th Day)
The goddess arrives, and rituals of Bodhan (invocation) are performed.
Saptami (7th Day)
Nabapatrika (nine plants symbolizing fertility) is placed, marking the formal start of worship.
Ashtami (8th Day)
Sandhi Puja and Kumari Puja (worship of young girls as the goddess) are performed.
Navami (9th Day)
The goddess is worshipped in her Mangala-Chandi form.
Dashami (10th Day)
On Vijaya Dashami, the idols are immersed in rivers. Married women take part in Sindoor Khela (vermillion play), and people exchange greetings and blessings.
Economic Impact
Durga Puja is a major driver of the Bengali economy:
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Idol makers begin work months in advance.
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Shops and markets record huge sales.
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Lighting, pandals, and cultural events create billions of dollars in business.
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Tourism also flourishes during this time.
Durga Puja Abroad
Bengalis living in the United States, Canada, the UK, and the Middle East also celebrate Durga Puja. Through these celebrations, they preserve their heritage and connect with their roots while living abroad.
Modern Technology and Durga Puja
Today, technology has given the festival a modern twist. Live streaming of rituals, pandal-hopping on social media, digital invitations, and online cultural competitions have become part of the celebrations.
Contemporary Issues and Debates
Sometimes Durga Puja sparks political debates, security concerns, or environmental issues related to idol immersion. Still, overall, the festival remains a celebration of joy, peace, and unity.
Conclusion
Durga Puja is the festival of life for Bengalis. It is not only a religious event but also a grand social and cultural carnival that unites people. Devotees believe Goddess Durga’s arrival destroys evil and ensures the triumph of good. Today, Durga Puja is not just celebrated in Bengal but has become a symbol of pride for Bengalis all over the world.
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