Durga Puja festival is one of the famous fasts and festivals of Hindus. It is celebrated with great reverence and faith throughout India. Durga Puja represents the worship of such a power, which is responsible for the creation and operation of the entire universe. Maa Durga is not just a power, she is the foundation of harmony in the universe.
Durga Puja is celebrated in many ways. Durga Puja is also celebrated monthly as Durgashtami. Durga Puja is also conducted on the occasion of various Navratris that occur throughout the year. Apart from this, Durga is worshiped in various incarnations such as Shakti Peeth and Mahasiddhi.
Why is Durga Puja done?
Shakti Durga represents one amongst the many powers of Gods and Goddesses. The description of this form of power is also found in the Vedas. Incarnated in the form of nature this power represents the various colours of the universe. The festival of Durga Puja is celebrated differently in different parts of India. This Puja, which has been going on since very old times, is still present in its full grandeur. Bengal’s Durga Puja is famous all over the world.
Nine forms of Maa Durga are worshiped for nine days from the day of Durga Puja. This festival is celebrated with great pomp and show. A Pandal and Goddess Durga’s idol is decorated with flowers and lights. Yagyas and Havans are performed. Devotees resolve to fast and wish for fulfillment of what they seek.
Durga Puja celebrations are started on the Pratipada of Shukla Paksha. From amongst all the days, the celebrations are at its best on the Maha Saptami, Maha Ashtami, Maha Navami and Dashami. According to the traditional Hindu Panchang, a Muhurta for Ghata Stapna is prescribed for Durga Puja. The period of this festival is also called Devi Paksha. The festival of Durga Puja is also celebrated as a symbol of the victory of good over evil. There are many mythological stories related to this, the most important amongst this is that of Goddess Durga’s victory over the demon Mahishasura.
Different forms of Durga Puja
Durga Puja is a special ritual. Special rules are followed during the time of this festival. The more the focus and attention of the devotee, the more prosperity he/she attains prosperity from the practice. The festival of Durga Puja is widely celebrated in Bihar, Assam, Odisha, Tripura, West Bengal etc. Special grand events are organized here at this time. It is considered as the most important and special festival of the year. This is not only the biggest Hindu festival, but it is also the most important period socially and culturally.
Durga Puja Vidhi
Importance of Durga Puja
Durga Puja has been important everywhere. Mother’s glory spreads in all four directions. Just as Goddess Durga destroyed the evil Mahishasura and established the religion, in the same way, we can all conquer our evils by worshiping Durga on this day. This period is designed for the attainment of a special kind of bliss. This festival also leads to the development of enthusiasm and new energy in life. Durgapuja is one such festival, which plays an important role in transmitting energy in life.
Preparations for Durga Puja start long before the actual event. Large idols of Devi Durga are installed. Devi Durga’s grand makeup is done. The Pandals are decorated. Various types of programs are organized in Durga Puja. During Navratri Goddess Durga is worshipped for seven days. She is also worshipped on the day of Durga Puja.
On these days,a Yagna is performed and Mantras are chanted. This time is also considered special for attaining salvation. Temples are decorated for the special worship of the mother. Huge crowds throng the temple for a glimpse of Mata. Devotees worship the mother for the happiness and prosperity of their family. It is believed that Mata resides in the soul of every small girl so girls are worshiped on the day of Durga Puja and their blessings are sought.
Durga Puja is one of the most important festivals of Hindus, this festival lasts for a period of ten days. In Durga Puja, idols of Goddess are made and they are worshiped. Pooja is conducted elaborately. This is a festival which has a lot of significance.
India is a land of festivals. People of different religions live here and they all celebrate their festivals throughout the year. Large religious festivals and celebrations are carried out. Durga festival across the country marks the arrival of prosperity. Devotees worship Goddess Durga in homes and temples. Devotees worship for a prosperous life and well being with complete devotion and preparation for the festival.