Durga Puja 101: What Devi Paksha Means
Durga Puja is more than a religious festival—it is Bengal’s premier autumn carnival, artistic homecoming, and living heritage event. Here is a breakdown of what happens on each sacred day.
Mahalaya (মহালয়া)
Mahalaya marks the end of Pitru Paksha and heralds the arrival of Goddess Durga from Mount Kailash to her earthly home. At 4:00 AM, millions across Bengal tune into the legendary voice of Birendra Krishna Bhadra reciting the Mahishasuramardini on radio. Artisans in Kumartuli perform the ritual painting of the deity’s eyes (Chakkhu Daan).
Maha Shashthi (মহাষষ্ঠী)
The formal rituals begin on Shashthi with Bodhon (awakening the Goddess under a Bael tree), Amantran, and Adhibhas. Pandals officially unveil their doors to visitors, and the resonant beats of the dhak begin echoing through Kolkata lanes.
Maha Saptami (মহাসপ্তমী)
At dawn, the Nabapatrika (popularly known as Kola Bou, represented by nine plant leaves wrapped in a yellow saree) is taken to the Ganges river for a holy bath, accompanied by dhak drummers. It is then installed next to Lord Ganesha inside the pandal.
Maha Ashtami (মহাঅষ্টমী)
Ashtami is the most auspicious day. Millions fast in the morning to offer Pushpanjali (floral prayers). In the evening, at the exact juncture between Ashtami and Navami, Sandhi Puja is performed with 108 lotus flowers and 108 oil lamps to celebrate Goddess Durga defeating the demon Mahishasura.
Maha Navami (মহানবমী)
Navami begins after Sandhi Puja. Homa rituals and grand bhog feasts are served at community pujas. Pandal hoppers stay up all night traversing the city as night transit reaches peak frequency.
Vijaya Dashami (বিজয়া দশমী)
With bittersweet tears, married women apply red vermilion to the deity’s feet and forehead before playing Sindoor Khela with each other. Idols are carried in grand processions to the river ghats for immersion (Bisarjan), followed by exchanging sweets and Subho Bijoya greetings.