Introduction

Durga Puja is an important festival of Hindus celebrated for six day as the part of 10 day Dussehra celebration. Durga is the symbol of Raw Power and Creative Feminine Force and thus revered by all Hindu devotees. Different regions of the country have different traditions of celebrating Durga Puja; however the Goddess Durga is common among them. It is the main festival in the sate of West Bengal, Bihar, Jharkhand and Orissa. Commonly the celebration last for six days in many part of India.

Occasion

Durga Puja is celebrated for six days in the month of Ashvin according to the Hindu Lunar calendar and in the month of October – November. The six days of celebration includes the days of as Mahalaya, Shashthi, Maha Saptami, Maha Ashtami, Maha Nabami and finally Vijya Dashami. On all days different incarnation of Goddess Durga is worshipped.

Significance of Durga Puja

According to the Hindu tradition Goddess Durga is incarnation of power that inhabits every element of the universe. Durga stands for intelligence, power, wealth, beauty and mercy. She is the creator, Preserver and destroyer of the whole universe. The image of Durga is represented by multi-armed mother goddess riding on a Lion. She also represents feminine force from where the whole universe is said to be originated. The Puja is dedicated to her as reverence for bestowing power to all the elements of the universe. Durga Pooja is a celebration of life and its traditional and valuable culture.

Celebration

The celebration of Durga Puja is observed with full excitement and religious fervor. A big Pandal is erected with formidable images of Durga is established. Sankalp, Puja are Aarti is performed with lavish custom and rituals. People are dressed up in their best attires and enjoy fairs organized on the place of worship.