Durga Puja

The worship of Durga in the autumn is the year's largest Hindu festival in places such as West Bengal, Orissa, Tripura, Assam and other parts of East India. It’s also celebrated in Bangladesh. Though politicians keep a low-profile during such festivals in India, in Bangladesh the country’s top leadership comes out in full-force to woe the 10% Hindu population. The Puja is also celebrated in other South-Asian countries such as Nepal and Bhutan.

The history behind the Pujo is dated back to the days of the Ramayana where Rama invokes the goddess Durga in his battle against Ravana. Though traditionally worshipped during spring, because of the battle she was invoked during autumn by Rama. The festival is also known as Sharodia (Shorot –autumn).The pujas are held for a 5-day period. It’s during this day Durga visits her father’s Himalaya home.

It’s a huge event in Bengal. Its celebrated with the setting of large Pandals, new clothes, gifts and Jewelry ornate the Goddess. This is one festival among Begalis where people from all backgrounds, regardless of their religious beliefs participate. Traffic becomes a major issue in the roads of Kolkata during this period but am sure no one’s complaining. They would rather walk to enjoy the festive atmosphere.