Durga Puja is a major Hindu festival celebrated in various parts of India, especially in the eastern states of West Bengal, Assam, and Odisha. It is a ten-day festival that celebrates the victory of goddess Durga over the demon Mahishasura. In 2023, Durga Puja will begin on October 1st and end on October 10th.
Significance of Durga Puja
Durga Puja is one of the biggest festivals celebrated in India. It symbolizes the victory of good over evil and the power of divine feminine energy. The festival celebrates the victory of goddess Durga over the demon Mahishasura, who had become invincible due to a boon from Lord Brahma. After a long and fierce battle, Durga defeated Mahishasura on the tenth day of the festival, known as Vijayadashami.
Durga Puja Celebrations
The preparations for Durga Puja begin months in advance. It is a time for shopping, feasting, and merry-making. Pandals (temporary structures) are erected to house the idols of goddess Durga and her children. These idols are decorated with elaborate clothing and jewelry.
During the ten-day festival, people visit these pandals to offer prayers to the goddess and seek her blessings. The sound of dhak (a type of drum) and conch shells fill the air, creating a festive atmosphere. On the ninth day, known as Navami, young girls are invited to the pandals and offered food and gifts as a symbol of the goddess’s blessings.
The tenth day of the festival, Vijayadashami, is celebrated with great pomp and show. The idols of goddess Durga and her children are taken out in processions and immersed in water bodies, symbolizing the departure of the goddess and her return to her abode in the Himalayas.
Muhurat for Durga Puja 2023
The auspicious time to start Durga Puja rituals will be on October 1st, 2023, at 6:08 AM and will end on October 10th, 2023, at 6:23 AM.
Conclusion:
Durga Puja is not just a festival, but a celebration of the spirit of love, unity, and harmony. It brings together people from all walks of life and strengthens the bond of brotherhood and sisterhood. The festival is a testament to the triumph of good over evil and the power of divine energy.