Durga Puja is not just a festival; it’s a celebration of resilience, love, and unity, embodying the victory of Goddess Durga over the demon Mahishasura. It’s a beautiful blend of culture, devotion, and community spirit, heralding the festive season leading up to Diwali. 🕊️
Key Dates
- Durga Puja Starts: October 3, 2024
- Ashtami: October 11, 2024
- Navami: October 12, 2024
- Vijaya Dashami (Dussehra): October 13, 2024
Ashtami Rituals 🌼
Ashtami is one of the most sacred days of the festival, where various rituals are performed:
- Pushpanjali Ceremony:
- Timing: 5:45 AM – 6:00 AM (Gupta Press annual calendar)
- Alternative Timing: 9:30 AM – 11:30 AM (Bisuddha Siddhanta calendar)
- Kumari Puja:
- A ritual honoring young girls (ages 8-12) as embodiments of Goddess Durga.
- Sandhi Puja:
- Timing: Begins at 11:30 AM, marking the transition to Mahanavami. This puja symbolizes the moment Mahishasura was vanquished, involving offerings of 108 lotuses and 108 diyas.
Mahanavami and Vijaya Dashami
- Mahanavami:
- The culmination of Goddess Durga’s nine-day battle, starting the afternoon of October 11 and continuing through October 12.
- Vijaya Dashami:
- A day of bidding farewell to Goddess Durga, who returns to her celestial abode. The ceremonial immersion of her idol in a river or lake marks the end of the festivities.
Significance of the Festival 🎉
Durga Puja promotes family togetherness, instills a sense of community, and upholds values of love and resilience. It is a time for families to gather, share meals, and celebrate the strength of the divine feminine, reminding us of the power that lies within.
This year’s Durga Puja is set to be an unforgettable celebration of faith, culture, and community spirit! ✨
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