DURGA PUJA FESTIVAL – KOLKATA

Durga Puja is a major Hindu festival celebrated in India, where the Goddess Durga is worshipped for nine days in the month of Ashwin (September/October). It is celebrated with great enthusiasm and devotion throughout West Bengal, and particularly in the city of Kolkata, the former capital of British India.

The festival begins on the sixth day of Ashwin, which is known as Shashti, and culminates on the fourteenth day, known as Vijayadashami. During the festival, the streets of Kolkata come alive with music, dance, and colorful processions. Devotees flock to temples to offer prayers and perform rituals. The festival also includes various cultural activities such as theatrical performances, puppet shows, and art exhibitions.

The highlight of the festival is the Puja, or worship, of Goddess Durga. Large idols of the Goddess are installed in pandals (temporary structures) which are decorated with lights and flowers. People throng the pandals and offer prayers to the Goddess. Special offerings are made to the Goddess, such as sweets, fruits, and incense.

The festival is also marked by the exchange of gifts among family and friends. People also go to visit each other