Durga Puja is a popular Hindu festival celebrated primarily in the Indian state of West Bengal, and also in other parts of India and around the world. The festival marks the victory of Goddess Durga over the demon Mahishasura and is celebrated over a period of ten days.
During the festival, elaborate pandals (temporary structures) are erected, and idols of Goddess Durga, along with her children, are installed in them. The pandals are decorated with lights, flowers, and other ornamental items, and devotees gather to offer prayers and seek blessings from the Goddess.
The festival begins with Mahalaya, which marks the start of the countdown to Durga Puja. The main festival is celebrated for five days, which includes Maha Shasthi, Maha Saptami, Maha Ashtami, Maha Navami, and Vijayadashami (also known as Dussehra). The last day of the festival, Vijayadashami, marks the victory of Goddess Durga over the demon Mahishasura, and the idols are immersed in water.
The benefits of performing Durga Puja include:
- Blessings of Goddess Durga: The puja seeks the blessings of Goddess Durga, who is believed to be the epitome of strength, power, and prosperity.
- Spiritual upliftment: The festival provides an opportunity for devotees to connect with their spiritual selves and seek inner peace and happiness.
- Social harmony: Durga Puja is a time for people of all castes, communities, and religions to come together and celebrate, promoting social harmony and unity.
- Cultural significance: Durga Puja is an important cultural event and a celebration of Bengali culture, art, and music.
"ॐ जयन्ती, मङ्गला, काली, भद्रकाली, कपालिनी । दुर्गा, शिवा, क्षमा, धात्री, स्वाहा, स्वधा नमोऽस्तु ते॥ एष सचन्दन गन्ध पुष्प बिल्व पत्राञ्जली ॐ ह्रीं दुर्गायै नमः"