Durga Puja

Durga Puja is one of the most important Hindu festivals in India, celebrated to honour Goddess Durga and commemorate her victory over the demon Mahishasura. The festival symbolises the triumph of good over evil, the power of truth, and the strength of divine feminine energy. It is celebrated with immense devotion, particularly in West Bengal, Bihar, Assam, Odisha and Tripura.

The festival usually takes place in September or October during the Hindu month of Ashwin. The main celebrations span five days, from Maha Shashthi to Vijayadashami, featuring traditional prayers, elaborate pandals, beautifully crafted idols, cultural performances and community gatherings.

Kolkata is particularly famous for its grand Durga Puja celebrations, where artistic pandals, spectacular decorations, traditional dhak music and vibrant cultural events attract millions of visitors. In Bihar and other parts of India, devotees celebrate with special pujas, devotional gatherings, fairs and local traditions.