Durga Puja, one of the most celebrated festivals in Hinduism, commemorates the victory of Goddess Durga over the demonic Mahishasura. This five-day extravaganza reaches its peak during Ashtami, the most auspicious day, and continues into Navami, the second-last day of the festivities.
For Durga Puja 2024, Ashtami falls on October 11th, followed by Navami on October 12th. The grand celebration will conclude with the immersion of Goddess Durga on October 13th, Sunday.
Ashtami: A Day of Auspicious Rituals
Ashtami is a day of significant rituals and observances. The most important of these is the
Pushpanjali
, a special offering of flowers to the Goddess. According to the Gupta Press almanac, the Pushpanjali timings for this year are scheduled between 5:45 AM and 6:00 AM. However, the Bisuddha Siddhanta almanac suggests a later time slot, from 9:30 AM to 11:30 AM. It’s advisable to check with local authorities for the most accurate timings.Another significant ritual on Ashtami is the
Kumari Puja
. In this tradition, young girls between the ages of 8 and 12 are worshipped as embodiments of Goddess Durga. This is a beautiful practice that underscores the reverence for feminine power and divinity.Sandhi Puja: Marking the End of Mahishasura
As Ashtami transitions into Navami, the
Sandhi Puja
marks a crucial moment. This ritual, commencing at 11:30 AM onwards, commemorates the exact time when Mahishasura was vanquished by Goddess Durga. This symbolic act is marked by offerings of 108 lotuses and 108 earthen lamps, accompanied by recitals invoking Goddess Chandi, the most powerful manifestation of Durga.Mahanavami: A Day of Celebration and Farewell
Mahanavami, spanning from the afternoon of October 11th to the entirety of October 12th, is a day of continued festivities. The Kolkata Metro has extended its operational hours by 7 hours during this time, ensuring a hassle-free experience for devotees visiting the pandals. Trains in the North-South corridor will be running until 4 AM on major festival days, including Ashtami, Navami, and Saptami.
As the celebration reaches its climax, the spirit of Durga Puja fills the air with joy, devotion, and a sense of communal unity. This vibrant festival is a testament to the cultural richness and spiritual depth of Hinduism.
