Kolkata’s Vibrant Preparations for Durga Puja 2023: A Grand Celebration Awaits
Table of Contents
Introduction:
Kolkata is buzzing with excitement as it gets ready for the lavish Durga Puja celebration in 2023. The magnificent Maa Durga idols are taking shape as the pandals go through meticulous preparation.
This festival is a celebration of Maa Durga’s maternal home coming to earth.
As I find myself in the heart of Kolkata, allow me to provide you with a glimpse into the city’s enthusiastic preparations to welcome the divine goddess. Each locality, commonly known as a ‘Para,’ is busy adorning their pandals with unique and captivating themes, making them a sight to behold once they are completed.
Gifting new clothes to your near and dear ones and wearing new clothes every day is an important part of this celebration. Every member of a family wears new, colourful clothing, conducts rituals at home or within their neighbourhood, and seeks Maa Durga’s heavenly blessings.
In the evenings, the city comes to life as people go on pandal-hopping excursions that go until the wee hours of the morning.
It’s an occasion to celebrate, spend time with loved ones, take in the beauty of the artwork on display around the city, and enjoy the mouthwatering food that is offered close to each pandal location.
Beginning on October 14th, Durga Puja in 2023 would be a nine-day spectacle filled with fascinating ritual tales and cultural importance, making it one of Kolkata’s most eagerly awaited holidays.
Durga Puja 2023: Important Dates
Mahalaya: The Awakening (October 14th)
Mahalaya, which welcomes in the festival, announces the start of the celebration. Everyone gets up early on this day to listen to the entrancing lyrics of “Mahishasura Mardini” playing on the radio. It is thought that this ceremony would invoke the goddess Durga. As families gather to worship and honour their ancestors, the air is infused with spiritual energy.
Panchami: Preparations Begin (October 19th)
In most pandals and homes, the goddess’ idol is brought out on Panchami, the fifth day. As the pandals, which are covered with elaborate decorations, begin to take shape, the streets begin bustling with excitement.
Shashti: Welcoming the Goddess (October 20th)
Shashti, the sixth day, signifies the goddess Durga’s actual presence. At the pandals, devotees assemble to see her triumphant homecoming. Bodhon (invocation), Adhibas (sanctifying the goddess), and Nabpatrika Snan (ritual soaking of nine plants) are some of the ceremonies. Conch shell chimes and the scent of incense resonate across the surroundings.
Saptami: Seeking Blessings (October 21st)
Saptami, the seventh day, is devoted to Lord Shiva, the goddess’ spouse. Devotees go to pandals to ask Durga and her family for their blessings. Extensive ceremonies and offerings are part of the ‘Saptami Puja’. With bright processions and cultural shows, the entire city comes to life.
Ashtami: A Vigorous Devotion (October 22nd)
One of the most important days of Durga Puja is Ashtami, which falls on the eighth day. After praying to the goddess, devotees break their fast. A touching tradition is “Kumari Puja,” in which little girls are adored as representations of Durga. At the intersection of Ashtami and Navami, ‘Sandhi Puja,’ an auspicious ceremony, brings the night to life.
Navami: The Culmination (October 23rd)
Navami, the ninth day, is observed with the “Maha Navami Puja.” The event officially ends on this day. Devotees worship the goddess and take her blessings. Cultural events are being performed at most of the pandals.
Dashmi: The Farewell (October 24th)
Durga Puja concludes on Dashami with the “Sindoor Khela” or “Vijaya Dashami” ritual. Married women apply vermilion to the goddess and then to each other, followed by the immersion of the idol in water bodies, symbolising the return of the goddess to her divine abode.
The Essence of Durga Puja
Durga Puja is not just about rituals and festivities; it’s a celebration of Bengali identity and culture.
FAQs
What is the importance of Mahalaya in Durga Puja?
Mahalaya marks the beginning of Durga Puja and is considered the day when goddess Durga begins her journey to Earth. It’s a time for invoking her presence and remembering ancestors.
How do kolkata prepare for Durga Puja on Panchami?
On Panchami, preparations for Durga Puja begin in earnest. The goddess’ idol arrives in pandals, and artisans start decorating these temporary structures.
What are the key rituals of Shashti in Durga Puja?
Shashti involves the official arrival of Goddess Durga. Rituals include ‘Bodhon’ (invocation), ‘Adhibas’ (sanctifying the goddess), and ‘Nabapatrika Snan’ (ritual bathing of nine plants).
What is the significance of Saptami in Durga Puja?
Saptami is dedicated to Lord Shiva, the consort of Durga. Devotees seek blessings from the goddess and her family on this day.
How is Ashtami celebrated during Durga Puja?
Ashtami is a day when young girls are worshipped as avatars of Maa Durga. This day, the Kumari Puja ritual is being performed, where young girls are worshipped and treated to sweets and delicious cuisine.
What is the significance of Dashmi in Durga Puja?
Dashmi, the final day, symbolises the farewell of Goddess Durga. The idol immersion, known as ‘Bijoya Dashami,’ is a poignant moment of departure.
Conclusion:
Durga Puja 2023 is not merely a religious festival; it’s an expression of Bengali culture, art, and devotion. You will gain a greater understanding of the rich culture and traditions that make Durga Puja a special and treasured festival as you take in the splendour of this celebration and participate in its rituals. So, join the festivities, immerse yourself in the cultural mosaic, and let the spirit of Durga Puja embrace you.