​A celebration unlike any other. Five days when the divine walks among mortals. A time when art, devotion, tradition, and community converge in a magnificent festival that Bengalis across the world wait for all year long. Known as Durgotsav(Festival of Durga), this sacred observance reveres Maa Durga, the warrior goddess who destroyed evil and restored cosmic order.

While most of India celebrates Navaratri (Nine Nights), for Bengalis, the last five days—Shasthi (Sixth), Saptami(Seventh), Ashtami (Eighth), Navami (Ninth), and Dashami (Tenth)—are the heart of the celebration.

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Shasthi – The Arrival

The goddess arrives. Her idol is unveiled at the pandal as Amontron (invocation), Bodhon (awakening), and Adibash(sanctification) rituals begin. The sound of Dhaak (traditional drums) fills the air. The face of the goddess is revealed to her children—and the world knows, Durga Puja has begun.

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Saptami – The Awakening of Nature

At dawn, a banana tree is bathed in holy water, draped in a sari, and brought to the pandal. This is Kola Bou (Banana Bride), also called Nabapatrika (Nine Leaves), representing nine forms of the divine feminine. Placed beside Lord Ganesha, she symbolizes fertility and renewal. The chants of ancient hymns rise again.

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Ashtami – The Warrior Within

The most intense day. It is believed that on this day, Maa Durga slayed Mahishasura, the buffalo demon. In Kumari Puja, young girls are worshipped as embodiments of the goddess. As dusk nears, Shondhi Puja—a powerful ritual between Ashtami and Navami—lights up 108 oil lamps to honour the exact moment of victory.

 

Navami – The Sacred Peak

The climax. Maha Aarti (grand offering of light) is performed. The morning begins with a Mahayagna (great fire ritual) seeking divine blessings. Devotees offer Pushpanjali (flower prayers), and prasad is distributed. The air is heavy with devotion, yet joyous in spirit.

 

Dashami – The Farewell

With hearts full and eyes moist, the people bid farewell to the goddess. After Boron (ritual goodbye), married women smear each other with Sindoor (vermilion) in the vibrant ritual of Sindoor Khela. Then comes the Visarjan (immersion), where Durga and her family return to the celestial realm—until next year.

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Bijoya – Victory and Hope

But this is not an end. This is Bijoya (Victory). The triumph of good over evil. As the idols submerge, families exchange heartfelt Subho Bijoya (Auspicious Victory) greetings. Hugs, sweets, blessings, and an evening feast mark the beginning of a new hope, a new year, and the goddess’s blessings carried forward in every heart.