Durga Puja, a festival deeply rooted in Hinduism, is a time of great joy, devotion, and celebration. It commemorates the triumph of Goddess Durga over the shape-shifting demon Mahishasura, who had terrorized the gods and brought chaos to the world. The festival, also known as ‘Mahishasurmardini’ – meaning ‘the destroyer of the demon’ – is a vibrant spectacle of rituals, offerings, and cultural displays. In 2024, the five-day festivities will begin on Tuesday, October 8th, marking the arrival of Goddess Durga to the mortal world, and will conclude on Sunday, October 13th, with her farewell.
Durga Puja 2024: A Detailed Timeline
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Day 1 – Shashthi (Wednesday, October 9, 2024):
The welcoming of Goddess Durga begins on Shashthi. The ‘Bodhan’ ceremony, a crucial ritual, is performed in the evening to officially mark the start of the festivities. This involves placing a mirror in front of a Bilva tree (Bel tree) to reflect the image of Goddess Durga.*
Day 2 – Saptami (Thursday, October 10, 2024):
Maha Saptami is a significant day, marking the commencement of the main puja rituals. A banana tree, known as ‘Nabapatrika,’ is bathed in holy water and adorned with a traditional saree.*
Day 3 – Ashtami (Friday, October 11, 2024):
Maha Ashtami is considered the most important day of Durga Puja. It is believed that Goddess Durga vanquished Mahishasura on this day, restoring peace and order to the world. The slaying of Mahishasura symbolizes the victory of good over evil. The ‘Sandhi Puja’ – a special puja performed at the transition from the eighth to the ninth day – is considered the exact moment of Mahishasura’s defeat. Offerings of 108 lotuses and 108 earthen lamps, along with recitals invoking the Goddess Chandi, the most violent form of Durga, are central to this ritual.*
Day 4 – Navami (Saturday, October 12, 2024):
Maha Navami is the second-to-last day of Durga Puja. This day is dedicated to the usual puja rituals, with offerings of flowers and other items presented to the Goddess.*
Day 5 – Dashami (Sunday, October 13, 2024):
Vijayadashami, the final day of Durga Puja, signifies Goddess Durga’s return to her celestial abode. The immersion ceremony, known as ‘Durga Visarjan’, takes place on this day. Amidst grand processions, the idol of Goddess Durga is taken to a river or sea and immersed, marking her departure from Earth.Durga Puja Traditions and Rituals
Durga Puja is a celebration filled with tradition and rituals. Each day of the festival holds significance, with specific practices and offerings. The festivities are marked by a vibrant atmosphere of cultural performances, musical events, and community gatherings. Devotees offer prayers and hymns, seeking blessings from the Goddess.
The festival is also an occasion for family reunions, feasts, and community bonding. People decorate their homes and pandals (temporary structures) with colorful lights, flowers, and intricate designs. Durga Puja is a time of immense cultural and spiritual significance, a testament to the enduring power of faith and tradition in India.
