Durga Puja is one of the most revered and widely celebrated Hindu festivals, dedicated to the worship of Goddess Durga. In 2024, Durga Puja will take place from October 9th to October 14th. This grand festival marks the victory of good over evil, symbolized by Goddess Durga’s triumph over the buffalo demon Mahishasura. The festival is observed over five days, starting from Panchami and culminating on Dashami, when the idol of Goddess Durga is immersed in water, symbolizing her return to Mount Kailash.

Durga Puja, also known as Maa Durga Navratri Puja, is a major Hindu festival celebrated to honor Goddess Durga. This festival spans nine days, coinciding with Navratri, and symbolizes the victory of good over evil. Devotees worship different forms of Goddess Durga during these days, with the festival culminating in grand celebrations on the final day, known as Vijayadashami or Dussehra. The worship of Maa Durga during Navratri is a time for spiritual reflection, community gatherings, and joyous festivities, particularly in states like West Bengal, Assam, Odisha, and Bihar.

Significance of Durga Puja

Durga Puja holds immense religious, cultural, and spiritual importance in Hinduism. The festival is not just a celebration of the divine feminine power, but also an occasion for families and communities to come together and rejoice. Goddess Durga is seen as the embodiment of Shakti (power), and her victory over evil is celebrated with fervor across the country. The festival is also a time for self-reflection, where devotees seek to overcome their inner demons, just as Durga vanquished Mahishasura.

Durga (दुर्गा पूजा) Puja transcends religious boundaries and has evolved into a major cultural event, especially in West Bengal, where it is considered the most significant celebration of the year. It highlights art, music, dance, and food, making it a multifaceted festival that appeals to people from all walks of life.

Historical Background of दुर्गा पूजा

The origin of दुर्गा पूजा dates back centuries. According to historical texts, the festival was first celebrated by the landlords of Bengal in the late 16th century. However, the roots of the festival can be traced further to ancient times, when devotees worshiped different forms of the goddess in various regions of India.

As the celebration evolved, it gained prominence in colonial India, with wealthy families and the local populace organizing elaborate events to honor Goddess Durga. Today, Durga Puja is celebrated not just in West Bengal but also in many parts of India and around the world.

Durga Puja Calendar 2024

In 2024, Durga Puja begins on Panchami (October 9th) and concludes on Dashami (October 14th). Here are the key dates for the festival:

• Panchami (October 9): The festival begins with the invocation of Goddess Durga.
• Sashti (October 10): The main rituals and celebrations start.
• Saptami (October 11): The day when the Goddess is invoked in the idols.
• Ashtami (October 12): The most auspicious day of the festival, marked by Kumari Puja.
• Navami (October 13): Final day of worship before the immersion.
• Dashami (October 14): The day of Visarjan, when the idol is immersed in water.

Rituals and Traditions of Durga Puja

Durga Puja is marked by numerous rituals, each significant in its own way. The festival starts with Bodhan, where the face of the idol is revealed. Over the next few days, rituals such as Kumari Puja, where young girls are worshipped as incarnations of the goddess, and Sandhi Puja, a special offering made at the juncture of Ashtami and Navami, take place. The final day, Dashami, is marked by the immersion of the idol in rivers or other water bodies, symbolizing the departure of the goddess to her celestial home.

In addition to the religious aspects, दुर्गा पूजा is a time for joyous celebrations, with cultural performances, pandal hopping, and feasting being integral parts of the event.

Durga Puja in Kolkata

The grandeur of Durga Puja in Kolkata is unparalleled. The city comes alive with brightly lit pandals, each more elaborate than the last. These pandals are temporary structures made to house the idols of Goddess Durga, and they are often decorated with intricate themes, ranging from traditional art to modern social issues.

The preparation for the festival begins months in advance, with artisans in Kumartuli, the potters’ quarter of Kolkata, working tirelessly to create the idols of the goddess. The immersion ceremony, where the idols are carried to the river with much fanfare, is a sight to behold.

FAQs on Maa दुर्गा पूजा 2024

1. When is Durga Puja in 2024?
   Durga Puja in 2024 will take place from October 9th to October 14th.
2. What is the significance of Ashtami during दुर्गा पूजा?
   Ashtami is considered the most important day of the festival, where the goddess is worshiped with special rituals, including Kumari Puja.
3. How is दुर्गा पूजा celebrated globally?
   The Indian diaspora celebrates दुर्गा पूजा with equal enthusiasm in major cities around the world, including New York, London, and Singapore.
4. What are some eco-friendly practices for Durga Puja?
   Many communities have adopted eco-friendly practices, such as using clay idols and natural colors to reduce the environmental impact of idol immersion.
5. How do I prepare for दुर्गा पूजा?
   Preparation involves buying new clothes, decorating homes, and participating in community activities such as organizing pujas and cultural programs.
6. Can tourists participate in Durga Puja celebrations?
   Yes, Durga Puja is open to everyone, and many pandals welcome tourists to participate in the festivities.

Published in Spiritual