Durga Puja is also referred to as durgotsav and sharadotsav it is an annual Hindu festival that is celebrated in South Asia.It is celebrated by the worship of The Hindu that is Goddess Durga.It refers to all the six days that are observed as Megha Shashti, Maha Saptami,Maha Ashtami,Maha Navami, and Vijayadashami. In 2024 Durga Puja starts from 08th October to 13th October.
Durga Puja Pooja Timings and Shubh muhurt
To know about the real pooja timings and shubh muhurat of Durga Puja you have to explore on the Internet. It starts on 08th October 2024. The Shashti will be on 08th October. So basically Maha Ashtami will be on 22nd October 2023.
| Date | Days | |
| 08-Oct-24 | Panchami | Bilva Nimantran Day |
| 09-Oct-24 | Shashthi | Durga Saptami Da |
| 10-Oct-24 | Saptami | Durga Ashtami Day |
| 11-Oct-24 | Ashtami | Maha Navami Day |
| 12-Oct-24 | Nabami | Durga Visarjan Day |
| 13-Oct-24 | Dashami | Vijayadashami |
You know Durga Puja is a community festival where the community comes into groups and prays together. Most the people decorate perfect Puja pandal.Into Kolkata, peoples begin preparations at least three months in advance. This culture is going to pass from generation to generation.
Durga Puja is a very famous Hindu festival where Goddess Durga is worshipped. It is also known as durgotsav. It refers to all the 5 days of activity that are observed as Shashti, Maha Saptami, Maha Ashtami, Maha Navami, and Vijayadashami. According to the Hindu religion, it includes the Chandi path. So that starts from the next day of Mahalaya Amavasya. Mahalaya is the most important day of pitru paksha where Hindus need to pay great attention. Apart from this Hindus can easily pay regarding their ancestors as it does not consider the beginning of any auspicious work.
About Durga Puja Festival
Durga Puja Festival is celebrated by numerous Hindus. Durga Puja celebrates the victory of the world as Durga over the demon king Mahishasura. It starts on the same day as Navratri. Is a 9 night festival in the north and eastern states that broadly celebrates with the divine and pure hearts. Durga Puja is celebrated by numerous people.It is the festival of music for the Hindus that isheld for 10 days into the month of Ashwini that is September 9 October.
In two different states, Goddess Durga gets worshipped by numerous people. The celebrations begin on the first day. During the following three days the Goddess is worshipped in various forms like Lakshmi, Saraswati, and Durga. The final celebrations get celebrated on Vijayadashami with the high drum beats and crackers. This custom is very simple because numerous Indians follow the process of fasting just to please the Goddess. Apart from this most of the people are organizing the Dandiya Nights to increase the grace of the Navarra festival. To get real entertainment of Navratri you have to join the Navratri Nights.
Different people visit the temple just to pray from the Goddess Durga. Some people get fasting just to fulfill their wishes. You should easily get the blessings of Goddess Durga by whole day fasting.
Facts About Durga Puja
Here are some interesting facts about Durga Puja:
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Goddess Durga: Durga Puja is dedicated to the goddess Durga, who is believed to be a symbol of female power, strength, and triumph over evil. She is depicted riding a lion and possessing ten arms, each holding a weapon.
- Date of Celebration: Durga Puja usually occurs in the month of Ashwin (September-October) of the Hindu lunar calendar, spanning over a period of four to five days. The festival culminates on the tenth day, known as Vijayadashami or Dashami.
- Elaborate Idols: Durga Puja is known for its intricately crafted idols of the goddess. Skilled artisans and sculptors create beautiful clay idols of Durga, her children (Lakshmi, Saraswati, Ganesha, and Kartikeya), and the demon Mahishasura, which are then worshipped and displayed in elaborate pandals (temporary structures).
- Themed Pandals: Each year, Durga Puja committees choose a unique theme for their pandals and idols, often inspired by mythology, current events, or social issues. The competition for the best pandal is fierce, leading to stunning and innovative designs.
- Cultural Performances: Durga Puja is not just about religious rituals; it also features cultural performances, including music, dance, and theater. Traditional folk dances, known as “Dhunuchi Naach” and “Dhak,” are commonly performed during the festivities.
- Saptami, Ashtami, and Navami: The main days of Durga Puja are Saptami, Ashtami, and Navami. These are considered the most auspicious days for worship and cultural events. Devotees visit pandals, offer prayers, and enjoy the festivities during these days.
- Dhunuchi Dance: Dhunuchi dance is a unique feature of Durga Puja, where devotees perform a traditional dance with an earthen incense burner (dhunuchi) in their hands. This dance is often accompanied by the rhythmic beats of the dhak (a type of drum).
- Sindoor Khela: On Dashami, the last day of Durga Puja, married Bengali women participate in a tradition known as “Sindoor Khela.” They apply vermillion to the goddess and then to each other’s foreheads, symbolizing marital bliss and the longevity of their husbands.
- Immersion Procession: On Dashami, the idols of Durga and her family are taken in a colorful procession for immersion in rivers or water bodies. This marks the goddess’s farewell, and the immersion is accompanied by singing, dancing, and a grand procession.
- Social and Cultural Impact: Durga Puja is not only a religious festival but also a significant cultural and social event. It brings people of all backgrounds together, fostering a sense of community and unity.
- Economic Impact: Durga Puja is a major economic event, with businesses, artisans, and artists benefiting from the surge in demand for decorations, clothing, and various products.
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Historical Roots: Durga Puja has a long history in Bengal and is believed to have been celebrated since the late 16th century. The festival has evolved and incorporated various elements over the centuries.
Durga Puja is a grand celebration of art, culture, and religious devotion, and it reflects the rich heritage and traditions of Eastern India. It is one of the most-awaited and widely celebrated festivals in the region.
FAQ
- What is Durga Puja?
- Durga Puja is a major Hindu festival dedicated to the worship of Goddess Durga, who symbolizes the divine feminine power and is considered the embodiment of strength and compassion.
- When is Durga Puja celebrated in India?
- Durga Puja usually takes place in the Hindu calendar month of Ashwin, which corresponds to September or October in the Gregorian calendar. The festival lasts for ten days, culminating in the celebration of Vijay Dashmi.
- What is the significance of Durga Puja?
- Durga Puja celebrates the victory of Goddess Durga over the demon Mahishasura. It symbolizes the triumph of good over evil and the power of the divine feminine.
- How is Durga Puja celebrated in different parts of India?
- Durga Puja is celebrated with grandeur in West Bengal, Assam, and other parts of India. It involves elaborate decorations, cultural performances, processions, and the creation of artistic temporary structures called pandals that house the Durga idols.
- What are the key rituals during Durga Puja?
- The rituals include the installation of Durga idols, daily prayers, recitation of mantras, and offerings. On the tenth day, known as Vijay Dashmi, the idols are immersed in water, symbolizing the departure of Goddess Durga to her heavenly abode.
- Are there any specific cultural events associated with Durga Puja?
- Yes, cultural events such as traditional dances, music performances, and drama (known as “Durga Puja Natok” or “Durga Puja Drama”) are integral parts of Durga Puja celebrations. Many pandals organize competitions and exhibitions showcasing local talent.
- Is Durga Puja a public holiday in India?
- Durga Puja itself is not a public holiday, but the celebrations often lead to holidays in certain regions, especially in West Bengal, where the festival is widely celebrated.
- How do people prepare for Durga Puja?
- The preparations for Durga Puja involve cleaning and decorating homes, shopping for new clothes, and preparing festive meals. Artists and craftsmen work on creating intricate idols and innovative pandals.
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